This hat is crocheted top down, the crown and body worked in spiral fashion, and the ribbed hatband in turned, joined rounds. Constructions is very simple and straightforward, so it’s easy to adapt to any weight yarn or any size hat you wish to make.

What makes this hat interesting, visually and to crochet, are the stitch patterns used. The crown and body consist of alternating rounds of herringbone half double crochet (h-hdc) and slip stitch (slst). Don’t worry if you’ve never heard of “h-hdc” before, as it’s not difficult, and I’ve included a detailed description and picture tutorial in case this stitch is new to you.

The ribbed hatband is the really fun part of this project where I’m sure you will be learning something new. This is a new-to-me ribbing method called “Zigzag Crochet” developed by a Japanese designer, betibettin, whose work is here on Ravelry and on YouTube. The stitches are easy -- basically alternating scBLO and scFLO -- but what creates the incredibly stretchy fabric is that you also purl these stitches, work the scFLO backward, and twist your live loop before each stitch! I know, sounds complicated, but I have included a detailed description and picture tutorial in the pattern, and a link to betibettin’s videos. I am absolutely in love with this ribbing method! And I hope you enjoy it too.

The pattern includes specific instructions for Adult Medium and Large sizes, but could easily be adapted for other sizes, and to make it more or less fitted or slouchy, to suit your taste. And bonus… The hat is reversible, very attractive on the WS, so two different hats for the price of one!

This charity hat pattern was developed specifically for the “Hats for Sailors” group. If you download this pattern, please make at least one hat as a gift for your favorite charity or special loved one in “payment” for my design. I hope you enjoy the project!

I would be delighted to see the hat(s) you’ve made from these patterns, and please share any feedback or corrections you might have to the pattern.