This is a very quick and easy hat.
You need to be able to do an invisible cast-on (there are good videos online for this), knit, purl, and star stitch, as well as the increase and decrease of your choice.
Star stitch instructions included.
The sizes are approximate, and not all sizes were tested. Please use your good judgement and please contact me if there are pattern problems or you have suggestions for improvements. Thanks for trying this pattern.
Ciara's Star Hat
designed by Valeri Devaney on 3 Dec 2010
Please notify me of any errata. If you like this pattern, please donate to your local animal shelter.
Yarn:Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & QuickShown in Blossom colorway.
Needles: 10.5 gauge. Use DPNs or circular needle method of your choice.
Gauge: Approximately 2 stitches per inch (or about 12 stitches to 4 inches).
Size: as shown for 44-48 cm circumference head (9 month old infant). Add or subtract in units of 4 stitches to achieve desired size.
For correct number of stitches to cast on (approximate, all sizes not tested):
Newborn = 32 stitches
6 mos = 36 stitches
Older infant/toddler = 40 stitches
Small child = 44 stitches
Large child/small adult = 48 stitches
Large adult = 52 stitches
Extra large adult = 56 stitches
If you aren't sure, do several rows of ribbing on a circular needle and then place the headband on the wearer to test for size.
Size note: Shown in photo on infant with 48 cm circumference head
Special techniques:
Star stitch is done on the wrong side (purl side).
Purl 3 stitches together, leaving the stitches on the left needle.
Yarn over the right needle, and then purl the same three stitches together again.
(this makes 3 stitches while combining 3 stitches)
Search for star stitch to find video of this stitch.
Cast on 40 (44,48,52,56) stitches using invisible cast on for 1x1 ribbing.
Place marker before joining in the round.
Knit the knits, purl the purls (that is, do 1x1 ribbing) for 8 (10,10,12,12) rows
Then knit all stitches for 6(8,10,12,14) rows (stockinette)
Stop at the marker. Turn the work (from working right side out to now working wrong side out).
Cast on or make one purl-wise.
*star stitch, purl one Repeat from * until you complete the row.
Once you reach the marker, turn the work back to the right side. Slip one stitch from right to left. Knit two together.
Then knit the remainder of the row.
Knit another 3 (5,7,9,11) rows.
*Knit 3, knit 2 together, repeat from * for 3 (4,5,6,7) rows
Knit 2 together for remaining rows until only 4-8 stitches remain. Cast off tightly and use tail on tapestry needle to stitch any opening at top closed. Weave in end.
