The hat shown in the original photograph was made from two pieces of commercial double-knit fabric (striped for the crown and solid for the flaps) that were cut and sewn to shape and edged with a commercial tape. Our handknitted version is worked sideways, beginning and ending at the center back, where it is seamed. The straps and back extension are worked from side to side in one piece and sewn to the bottom of the crown. The edges are finished with reverse stockinette stitch that rolls to the inside.
Finished Size: 18 3/4 (21 1/2)" (47.5 [54.5] cm) circumference. To fit a child's (adult's) head. Hat shown measures 21 1/2" (54.5 cm).
Yarn: Debbie Bliss Pure Cashmere (100% cashmere; 50 yd [46 m]/25 g): #012 royal purple (MC), 3 balls; #05 turquoise (CC), 1 ball. Yarn distributed by Knitting Fever.
Yarn weight: #4 - Medium
Gauge: 28 sts and 36 rows = 4" (10 cm) in St st.
Needles: Hat-Size 4 (3.5 mm): straight. Edging-Size 3 (3.25 mm): 24" (60-cm) circular (cir). Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain the correct gauge.
Notions: Tapestry needle; markers (m); one 3/4" (2-cm) button.
Originally Published: Knitting Daily 2006