In a Pinch - Knit Hat

This is a very easy hat for beginning knitters, as it does not require any decreasing - you knit a square hat, use three needle bind of technique and pinch the corners to make ears!

If you are new to knitting I recommend searching on YouTube to find great tutorials on knitting basics. I have not included any step by step photos, but let me know if you have questions on this project.

MATERIALS:

• Size 9 - 16 inch circular needles 
• Set of double pointed needles (DPN)
• 1 skein worsted weight navy blue yarn
• Light blue yarn for hat brim

SIZING: This pattern can be adapted for larger or smaller heads, cast on number of stitches and knit for desired size:

0-6 months: CO 48, 5"

6-12 months: CO 56, 5 1/2"

1-2 years: CO 64, 6"

2 years and up: CO 72, 6 1/2"

PATTERN:

1. With main color, loosely CO desired number of stitches per size, above. Cast on one extra to join. Slip one stitch from the right hand to the left hand needle, being careful not to twist. Knit the first two stitches together. Place a marker.
2. For brim: Knit 2, purl 2 to the end of the round. Repeat for 5 rounds (about 1 inch).
3. Switch to second color, knit in the round until hat measures correct length, per sizing above.
4. Turn hat inside out and bind off using the three needle bind off technique*, tie off and weave in ends.

*Tip: When doing three needle bind off on hats, I use the circular needle and one DPN. During my last round, I place a stitch marker at the half way point, this keeps me on track when knitting the sides together. Fold the circular needle in 'half' and insert the DPN into the first stitch on each needle (k2tog) repeat for second stitch - you will now have 2 stitches on the DPN. Lift the first stitch over the second and drop off using the typical bind off technique.

Variations - For 'girl ears' tie the yarn around the ears in a bow instead of a knot. Or, instead of pinching ears - add pompoms to the corners, creates a cute loose fitting hat. You may want to knit the hat a bit longer for this variation.