Just about everyone I know has been touched by cancer (my family has been hit especially hard in the last few years), so when Shall We Knit? suggested I design a versatile cap for those undergoing chemotherapy treatment and beyond, I knew I had to try my very best.

Close fitting to capitalize on comfort, warmth and head coverage, this hat reminds me of the Florence Cathedral in Italy (Il Duomo). Five spines of front post double crochet radiate downward from an oculus-like opening through a background of back post double crochet to create a softly cushy fabric.

Bicraftuals, rejoice: Choose between a post-stitch crocheted rib and a standard knit rib brim to finish. (Pastel Koigu version shows post-stitch rib; teal Socks That Rock version shows 1x1 knit ribbing.)

Gauge information and yardage requirements above are for standard fingering-weight yarns such as Koigu. For heavy fingering-weight yarns, such as Socks That Rock Lightweight, use the larger recommended hook sizes and aim for a gauge of about 11 stitches and 7 rounds over 2 inches in back post double crochet.

Technical editing by Lindsey Stephens.