This pattern starts with a rib brim and is worked to the top. The skull pattern is in chart form. It is assumed that the crocheter already knows how to change colors and read from a chart. For a larger or smaller hat you can change the hook size or increase or decrease the rib rows which will not affect the chart part. The skull chart is too wide for a baby hat unless you take out the crossbones. This hat took me approximately 4 hours to complete.