I followed the pattern from here, but I used a 4.5mm hook for the ribbing and measured it to 19" instead of the 21"/22" suggested for sizing. I wanted to account for stretch after the first week of wear. It gave me 72 stitches, which ended up aligning back with the pattern's numbers, so the rest was made according to the pattern's S/M size (I switched back to a 5.00mm hook after the ribbing's ends were sewn together). I made 17 puff stitch rows.
Now that the hat is finished, I think next time I will use a 4.00mm hook for the ribbing. It's always hard to tell how much a hat will stretch out after it's finished, but I want to be sure by having tight ribbing.
The pattern was well-written and easy to follow. I definitely recommend trying it.
I found the pattern when I stumbled across someone else's blog, and she posted pictures of her process and finished product. Her pictures go along well with the original pattern.
I plan to add a button section to the ribbing, but I haven't decided if I will add plastic buttons or homemade fabric ones. I have a feeling that homemade fabric ones would look awesome on this hat (and probably my other projects, as well), but I'll need to get more button-making supplies. I guess for now, I'll leave the hat plain.
I was hoping to have enough yarn left for a matching puff stitch scarf, but, sadly, I only have about 1/3 of the amount I would need.
This hat sits really nicely. (What? I had to try it on, just to see if there are any adjustments I will have to make when I make another one.) I could see making one for myself and wearing it a lot...
Unless someone claims it early on, this hat will be available at the November craft show.
(By the way, it was not easy to get this hat to stand up slouchy-style for the camera (without a head inside of it). Trust me, it looks even better on a real head!)