The major pattern for the hat is called the ribbon stitch. since I used alternating colors, I call it Ribbons of Color. The cast on is a scallop cast on. The directions for this cast on are included in the pattern. Or you can find it on Fitzbirch Crafts on the web..

The pattern is perfect for using up different colors of stash as can be seen in both the example pictures. The MC used about 1/3 a skein and the two CC are just left over yarn. You will need enough to knit 12 rows of each contrasting color.