The Explorer Tom Crean Hat is modeled after the original worn by the famous Antarctic explorer Tom Crean (1877-1938) on his polar expeditions. It is a thick, loose fitting, slouchy hat with a simple line that is stylish today.

This hat is knit with 2 DK weight yarns held together from start to finish.

Size
• Average fits 22 (56 cm) inch circumference head.
• Large fits 24 inches (61 cm) circumference head.

Materials
• 2 balls Rowan Felted Tweed DK (50% Merino, 25% alpaca, 25% nylon, 191 yds / 174 m, 50 g).

Note: The large size is very close to only needing 2 balls. If you are an experienced knitter or cost conscious, you could consider playing yarn chicken and shortening the body slightly if you need to, reserving enough yarn to make tassels.

• US 9 (5.5 mm) circular needle in 20” (50 cm) length, OR SIZE TO OBTAIN GAUGE.
• US 8 (5.0 mm) circular needle in 20” (50 cm) length.
• US 9 (5.5 mm) straight or double pointed needle to perform 3-needle Bind Off (Optional).
• One stitch marker.
• Tapestry needle to weave in ends.
• One crochet hook, approximately size G / 4.0 mm, to make tassels.
• Sturdy piece of scrap cardboard 6.5 inches (16.5 cm) wide to make tassels.

Gauge
• 15.5 sts = 4”, yarn held double, using larger needle, in stockinette stitch.

Errata
Correction for Size (2/25/2022) - This is supposed to be a loose fitting hat, but most people report it is too loose. Please reduce number of Cast On stitches from what the pattern says:

For a 21” head CO 84 sts
For a 22” head CO 86 sts
For a 23” head CO 90 sts

Because of the reduced stitches for CO, only 2 balls of yarn are needed to make even the largest hat size.