I love an oversized hat that droops in the back. Designed for the beginner knitter, the faux colorwork will impress your friends. I love Blossom Street’s cashmere blend, Fleur De Lis, because it’s so soft, but the loose spin doesn’t wear as well as most cashmerinos out there (which would work equally well). For the striping yarn I used Viking Odin, but Poems Wisdom and Noro Kureyon would also work. Take care in choosing the solid. The color should not appear anywhere in the repeat of the striping yarn, but should make a nice contrast so the pattern shows up.

After doing 4 or 5 rows of rib, fro your work and try it on. if it’s too tight, undo your ribbing and use a larger needle. If it’s too loose, use a smaller needle.