Shepherd's delight

Dusk from our treehouse in the Blue Mountains

slouchy hats

Testing some knitting patterns that might be suitable for chemo hats. The obvious requirements are that the hats must be seamless, a solid style and very soft. These hats are a change from the usual beanie type cap that is not always very flattering for the wearer and may be a better choice for some people, as they offer a fuller shape. They also provide a longer cap that gives the wearer the option of some protection for the back of the neck and the ears. Important to keep the rib band firm and not too large so it will be a good fit and not allow the hat to slip off.

The red slouchy can be found here http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/f302-slouchy-hat

Modifications: 8ply/DK wool x 100 gms
Band: 1x1 ribbing using 4mm circular needles; 96 stitches increased to 120 sts for body of hat
Body: stocking stitch using 6mm circular needles for soft drape
*Note: Use smaller needles for rib for a firmer band

The burgundy slouchy can be found here http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/gildas-club-chemo-hat

Modifications: 8ply/DK wool x 100 gms
Band: 1x1 ribbing using 3.5mm circular needles; 96 stitches increased to 120 sts for body of hat
Body: pattern (Knit  & Purl combination) using 4.5mm circular needles

*Note: To prevent holes in the hat, increase by picking up stitch from knitted bar between stiches, not by knitting into stitch twice.

UPDATE: Have knitted a second version of this hat with a smaller band of 92 stiches on 3.5mm needles and then increased to 120 sts (K3, inc.1stitch). Think this would be more suitable for a chemo cap because of the firmer band. Other yarns may require different modifications.