My gauge was roughly 5 stitches per inch. I used annelacanne’s suggestions for an adult size hat but did 108 stitches and 6 pattern repeats for my husband’s 23 inch head, and I also used a SS edge so it would curl rahter than ribbing. Because of this I added another inch SS above the flames so the hat should fit over his ears. So far it has been fun to knit. Initially I was concerned that they do not look like flames but as I continue the pattern it is looking better. I will post photos when I am done, hopefully tonight.
It turned out good, Tom likes it and immediately recognized it as a flame hat!