October Snowstorm Hat

I made this hat for my father-in-law, since he and the boys don’t stop working outside just because of a little snow. The double slip stitch used in this pattern makes the hat look a bit like it was knitted, and it gives the hat some stretch. The combination of double crochet and double slip stitches results in a lovely thick texture perfect for those winter months (and even the early snowstorms). This hat is worked flat, as a rectangle, then seamed up the edge and at the top. It’s made long to create a brim and allow the hat to fit most adult sizes. I learned the technique of alternating double crochet with double slip stitches from [Reneé Barnes’ V-Neck Topper][1] pattern. UPDATE: This pattern makes a cute [newborn hat][2] too. Use an I hook and <1 skein soft yarn (e.g., Snuggly Wuggly or Red Heart Shimmer). Chain 33 to start (you want the piece to be between 7 and 8 inches across), and follow the pattern as written until it is about 10 inches long; end on a dsst row. Seam the beginning chain and last row together, then stitch the top closed and add a pompom or other ornament if desired. UPDATE #2: PUMPKIN HAT MOD! Make the rectangle and seam it up the side so that the chain3 long side is at the top. Hdc2tog around--so each stitch includes two ch3 links. Second round: hdc2tog again. Third round: hdc3tog 4-7 round: hdc in each 8: sc2tog around. Fasten off. Chain 20, turn, 2sc in each chain. It should spiral naturally. Attach at top of stem and use green ends to fasten on securely. (See project for picture.) Stitches used: double crochet, double slip stitch. [1]: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/v-neck-topper [2]: http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Leah409/october-snowstorm-hat-2