This cheerful hat combines several techniques, including Fair Isle, and is written for four sizes: children’s small, children’s large, adult small, and adult large. Great for using up small quantities of leftovers and can incorporate a variety of yarns for added texture. Corkscrew hat toppers use a basic crochet technique, with other options also included for finishing the top.

Yarn: 175-250 yds (70-100 g); yardage per color varies depending on size and number of colors used

Needles: 1 US size 4 (3.5 mm) 12” or 16” circular needle or DPNs
1 US size 6 (4.0 mm) 16” circular or size needed to achieve gauge plus second
size 6 12” or 16” circular or five DPNs or a 40” circular for finishing the top
1 US size E (3.5 mm) crochet hook

Children’s small hat requires shorter needle, DPNs, or Magic Loop for ribbing.

Notions: 1 sliding stitch marker; tapestry needle; scissors; stitch gauge. Optional: Chart holder and highlighting tape

Gauge: 6 sts x 8 rounds/inch in stockinette in pattern after blocking. Note: Even at gauge, sport-weight comes out slightly smaller than DK.

Finished sizes after blocking:

Children’s small: 13½” circ.: fits a 14-16” head and is 5½-6” from CO to crown
Children’s large: 15½-16” circ.; fits a 16-19” head and is 6½-7” from CO to crown
Adult small: 18” circ.; fits a 19-23” head and is 6½-7” from CO to crown
Adult large: 18” circ.; fits a 19-23” head and is 7½-8” from CO to crown