CO80. Try P3, K2, P3, K3, P3, K2 and repeat around for a couple of rows to rib and prevent the edge from curling. Then start pattern , and the P3 column in the pattern should hit one of those P3 sections. I think.

Pattern calls for 140 yards of worsted weight. I have about 132 yards. Yardages shown on the finished projects are all over the place--some, much higher, others much lower--but I’m going to assume the pattern is the closest info. I’ve cut about 6 rows out of the pattern (3 rows of the K13 section, 3 rows of the knit-straight part), and I’ll run a lifeline before I start the decreases. The hat is going to Hats for Sailors, and I’m not worried about whether the hat is slouchy enough for its sailor because (1) sailors come in all sizes, and (2) sailors can swap hats around to find one that fits the way they like.

The shortened pattern still has some slouch, and it took about 93 yards (finished hat weighs 42.2g).