Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Basic Baby Bunny Hat

This hat is based on a simple hat V. had when she was an infant. I liked it so much that I've made this knitted version from recycled cashmere. It's extremely simple. This version is to fit a baby with an 18 inch head (about 12 - 18 months old) - but this pattern is so simple that if you need a smaller or larger hat you can just add or subtract multiples of 4 stitches for the desired size, or even use a different gauge!

(I have plans to add ear flaps to this! When I do, I'll add a link to the instructions.)
Basic Baby Bunny Hat

Size:
12- 18 months (16 inch circumference unstretched, fits 18 inch head)

Yarn:
any worsted weight that meets desired gauge

Gauge: 4.5 sts = 1 inch (2.5 cm)

Needles: US #9, or size needed to obtain desired gauge

Abbreviations:
k - knit
k2tog - knit two stitches together
skp - slip one stitch, knit one stitch, pass slipped stitch over knitted stitch

MAIN
CO 68, join to work in round, being careful not to twist.

Work 3 ridges in garter stitch.

Knit in stocking stitch until piece measures 5 inches from cast-on edge.

EARS
K34, place remaining 34 sts on waste yarn or needle holder. (34 sts now on needles for working in the round)

Decreasing:
*K2tog, k to 2 sts before end of round, skp. K one round, repeat from * until 4 sts remain.
K2tog, skp, k2tog, cut yarn and weave in end. First ear completed!

Place stitches from waste yarn onto needles for working in the round and join yarn near first ear, making sure to leave about a 4 inch tail to use later to weave in gap between ears. With RS facing, k one round.

Work decreasing as for first ear. Second ear completed!

Use that joined yarn tail to close up any gap there might be be between the ears. Weave in all ends. You're done!