How to Knit a Child's Hat
You'll Need:
US size 8 16" circular needles
Worsted weight yarn, this is Vanna's Choice
Crochet hook or tapestry needle
Hat Size Instructions
For a child's-sized hat, cast on 72 stitches (I use the long tail cast on).
Note: If you would like to make the hat smaller or larger, simply subtract or add stitches in multiples of 8 and knit it slightly shorter or longer respectively.
Place a marker and join in the round.
Knitting the Body of the Hat
Work in k2, p2 (knit two, purl two) for 9 inches. If you would like a color-blocked hat, k2, p2 for 3 inches, switch colors for the remaining 6 inches. (Note: This is my favorite way to switch colors without having to fuss with weaving in ends.)
Decrease Instructions
Note: You can switch to double points or magic loop if you'd like. When the stitches become few, I simply pull my cord out from the middle of my work (adjusting it regularly) and muscle through, totally doable and easier for me than fussing with switching needles.
Decrease Rounds
Rnd 1: k2, p2, k2, p2tog (purl 2 together), repeat pattern to marker (63 stitches)
Rnd 2: k2, p2, k2, p1, repeat pattern to marker
Rnd 3: k2, p2tog, k2, p1, repeat pattern to marker (54 stitches)
Rnd 4: k2, p1, k2, p1, repeat pattern to marker
Rnd 5: k2, p1, k2tog (knit 2 together), p1, repeat pattern to marker (45 stitches)
Rnd 6: k2, p2tog, p1, repeat to pattern marker (36 stitches)
Rnd 7: k2, p2tog, repeat to pattern marker (27 stitches)
Rnd 8: k2tog, p1, repeat to pattern marker (18 stitches)
Rnd 9: k2tog, repeat to end (8 stitches)
Break yarn and pull it through the remaining 8 stitches.
Weave in the ends.
Finishing Touches
Hat without pom pom
Optional: Add a giant pom pom. I made mine by wrapping lots of yarn around a large canning jar, slip off the bundle, tie in the middle, cut the loops, and trim like crazy.
