Errata: Corrected Instructions for Star Stitch: Ch 2, ins hook in back lp of 2nd ch from hook, yo and pull up a lp, ins hook in bottom ridge lp of same ch, yo and pull up a lp (3 lps on hook), ins hook in next star, yo and immediately draw through all lps on hook. (Do not draw up another loop after inserting hook into next stitch.)

MORE Errata: Corrected Instructions for Cluster: (starting after the words “3rd ch from hook, yo and pull up lp”) …yo, insert hook in left vertical bar of sc, yo and pull up lp, yo, insert hook in blo of same st (the st where the sc is), yo and pull up lp, (yo, insert hook in blo of next st, pull up lp) 4 times, (17 lps now on hook), yo, draw through all lps on hook, sc blo in next st.

Video and phototutorials for Star Stitch can be found here: http://mrsmicawber.blogspot.com/2013/11/stretchy-star-sti...

Description Boughs of spruce (genus Picea) rim this hat; the stretchy star stitch of the crown echoes clusters of needles. Crocheted buttons give a finishing touch to the wavy band.

Gauge 22 st = 4” in band pattern on largest size hook; 12 clusters and 11 rows = 4” in star st with largest hook.

(More details on project page)

From the designer: Hat is made almost entirely with a size H hook (down to the last few rounds - the G and F are used on the final edge rounds only.) The D hook is used for the buttons.

You could also make this hat in a worsted weight yarn - just start with larger hooks (size J worked for me with a worsted weight yarn). Using a heavier yarn would require fewer crown rounds, and a bit of math to get the band motifs distributed properly.