Please note: A correction was made to the pattern on 12/17/15. The number of cast-on stitches for the size Adult Large pattern should be 72 stitches. The decreases will start at Round 1. A revised pattern is available for download.

Some knitters are reporting that this hat runs small. I am a loose knitter. So, please compare your gauge to that in the pattern. If your gauge differs, adjust hat size accordingly.

The Backcountry Hat is knit in the round using circular and double pointed needles. The pattern is very simple, perfect for beginning knitters. It knits up lightning fast and makes a great last minute gift project. Add stripes, a pom pom or a tassel to jazz it up!

Yarn:
One skein of Luna Grey Fiber Arts Apollo yarn (100% Superwash Merino Wool, 106 yards/100g). Or other bulky/chunky weight wool yarn. Samples knit in the Charcoal, Emerald and Araucana colorways. Pom poms may be added, but will require additional yarn.

Needles:
One US # 7 (4.5 mm) 16” circular needle or two sizes smaller than needle used for body of hat based on gauge.
One US # 9 (5.5 mm) 16” circular needle or size needed to obtain gauge.
One set US # 9 (5.5 mm) double pointed needles or size needed to obtain gauge.

For Baby size: As the circumference is quite small, the entire hat can be knit on double pointed needles sizes US # 7 (4.5 mm) for ribbing and US # 9 (5.5 mm) for hat body.

Notions:
Tapestry needle for weaving in ends, one stitch marker for marking start of round

Gauge:
14 stitches/4 inches (10cm) in stockinette stitch on larger needles

Sizes :
Baby (Toddler, Child, Adult Small, Adult Medium, Adult Large). Finished size 12” (14”, 16”, 18”, 20”, 22”); 30.5cm (35.5cm, 40.6cm, 45.7cm, 50.8cm, 55.8cm) in circumference. When in doubt, size down as this hat is very stretchy and will accommodate a wide range of sizes.

Skills Needed:
Long tail cast-on, knitting and purling in the round, using double pointed needles, knit two together, binding off, weaving in ends