final photos taken before blocking
12.29.13 Based on other comments not liking the decreases as written I did my own: knit about 3/4” after finishing the chart, then placed 6 markers evenly and did k2tog before each marker every row. Decreases turned out perfect. Chart is great, but the pattern as written in terms of gauge, cast on, sizing and decreases - not so much.

12.11.13 something is very wrong with the gauge. Pattern says gauge is 9sti, co for small is 132 then increases to 144 after ribbing. If there are 9sti and 144 then the small should measure 16” (not considering the ribbing, which would be much smaller as it’s 12 less stitches and knit with smaller needles) yet the pattern says the small (age 1-2) measure 20”. The math does not add up. I know intarsia effects gauge but pattern doesn’t indicate if gauge is in plain stockinette or in pattern. Also reading other comments that others don’t like the decreases. So throwing everything about the hat (except the chart) out the window and figuring it all out based on gauge.

Happy with a gauge of 7sti on #1.5. Kiddo’s head is 21”, I want it to be more of a beanie so negative ease of at least a few inches, so shooting for a finished hat that’s about 19” measured flat, maybe 18” around ribbing. 7 x 19 = co 133ish. Dragon chart = 44 sts x 3 = 132, add 2 st between 3 motifs = 132+6 = co 138. 138/7 = 19.7” finished, probably fine. Maybe co 134 then increase 4 on first row. (if gauge is 7.5 and co 138 finished flat = 18.4”, great! 141 sts = 18.8”)

Yarn notes: for 100% merino it really knits up not so soft at this gauge, I think it’s the the 2 ply. Excellent stitch definition. Will soak and block and see if softness improves, little one will not wear anything that is remotely scratchy… could line it with fleece…

Swatch Blocking: yarn did soften (laid flat to dry, not stretching) and gauge is 7.5?

12.12.13 a new swatch on #1 short, gauge 15 over 2 inches laid flat, 13 sts over 2” when stretched, relaxed. 14sts when blocked. will wash and block, gonna call it 7sti.

Rhaegal, from Song of Ice and Fire. Green with bronze.