Ellen's Knit Hat (SHIPS Project)
Lion Brand® Wool-Ease®

Supplies:
1 ball Wool-Ease yarn from Lion Brand, or equal
Size 7 (US) straight or circular needles
Size 7 (US) double pointed needles
Large-eye blunt needle

GAUGE:
20 sts + 28 rows = 4 inches [10 cm] BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR GAUGE. When you match the gauge in a pattern, your project will be the size specified in the pattern and the materials specified in the pattern will be sufficient. If it takes you fewer stitches and rows to make a 4 in. [10 cm] square, try using a smaller size hook or needles; if more stitches and rows, try a larger size hook or needles.

HAT
For straight needles
Cast on 80 sts. Work in K1, P1 or K2, P2 ribbing for 1 ½-2".
Begin St st (k on RS, p on WS) until total length is 8".
Crown decreases
Row 1 K 6, k2tog across row – 70 stitches.
Next Row and all even rows Purl.
Row 3 K 5, k2tog across row – 60 stitches.
Row 5 K 4, k2tog across row – 50 stitches.
Row 7 K 3, k2tog across row – 40 stitches.
Row 9 K 2, k2tog across row – 30 stitches.
Row 11 K 1, k2tog across row – 20 stitches.
Row 13 K2tog across row – 10 stitches.
Cut yarn leaving long tail. Weave tail through remaining stitches and pull tightly. Sew seam.

HAT
For circular needles
Cast on 80 stitches. (If you knit tightly, you may add more stitches in multiples of 8.)
Join and work in ribbing of K1, P1 or K2, P2 for 1½-2". Then knit all rounds until piece measures 8".
Round 1 K 6, k2tog across row – 70 stitches.
Next Round and all even rounds Knit.
Continue having 1 less stitch before decreases as outlined in hat for straight needles. Switch to double-pointed needles when needed and finish off by drawing yarn through last 10 stitches.


I make the straight needle version because it's easier for me.