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Fizzy Hat: fun and quick!

Several of this hat’s test knitters enjoyed the pattern so much, they made more than one. You’ll want to cast this on again and again, too! Here’s why:

• The project moves fast thanks to bulky yarn
• Use just one color at a time to create the effect of a mesh overlay - looks fancy, but so easy!
• The pattern lets you add a skill to your knitting repertoire with the decorative, easy-to-learn lateral braid, with fully written-out instructions supported by a photo tutorial and video link.
• Not in the mood for the braid? A suggested substitute keeps it simple.
• The detailed pattern includes 5 sizes for children through large adults.
• The hat looks great with or without a pompom.
• I work hard to make sure my patterns are very thorough- I give you stitch counts any time there is a change, provide detailed explanations, and provide quality photos as guides.
• If you ever have any questions regarding the pattern, I’m always available via email and here to help if you get stuck!

Skills to have or enjoy learning: knit, purl, k2tog, ssk. The optional lateral braid has step-by-step instructions and a video to show you how. There’s an option for an easier substitute if you’re not in the mood!

Sizes: 1-3 yrs, 4-12 yrs, (teen/Adult small, medium, large) with finished circumference approximately 16, 17.3 (18.6, 20, 21.3)“/40, 43 (46.5, 50, 53) cm to fit heads up to 18.5, 20.5 (22, 23, 24.5)”/46, 21 (55, 57.5, 61) cm.
Finished height will be approximately 6.75, 7.25 (7.75, 8.5, 8.75); height is easily adjustable.

Gauge: 12 sts and 16 rounds to 4”/10 cm in stockinette stitch.

Yarn: Super bulky yarn
Main color (the color used for both the patterned section and the body of the hat): approximately 55, 65 (75, 90, 110) grams/40, 46 (53, 64, 75) yards/36, 43 (48, 58, 68) meters.
Contrast color (the color used just in the patterned section): approximately 15, 17 (19, 22, 25) grams/11, 12 (14, 16, 18) yards/10, 11 (13, 15, 17) meters
The sample was made with Madelinetosh ASAP, a 100% wool single-ply yarn with 94 yards to 132 grams. Other bulky wool or wool-blend yarns would work well. Popular yarns for this pattern include Malabrigo Mecha or Noventa, Manos del Uruguay Franca, Rowan Big Wool, Plymouth Yarn Encore Mega, and others.

Needles: 16” circular needle in size US 11/8 mm and US 9/5.5 mm, or size to obtain gauge plus 2 US sizes smaller to be used for the lateral braid; double-pointed needles in larger size to use as the stitches decrease for crown shaping, or a long circular needle if you prefer the Magic Loop method. This hat is worked in the round.

Thank you to the fabulous test knitters of this hat! If you might be interested in test knitting, join the Softyarn Designs newsletter. where test knitting opportunities are announced.