This is a basic, top-down watch cap pattern. Instructions are included for infant, child, and adult sizes and DK or worsted weight yarn.

The cap is worked in half double crochet. Half double crochet is a great hat stitch. It’s softer and more elastic than single crochet, but it doesn’t have the gaps between stitches that you get with double crochet. I like to wear it with the “wrong side” facing out, because the back of half double crochet reminds me of the texture of straw hats. Of course, you can wear it whatever way you prefer.