Mods:

• different yarn
• needle size 4mm
• increased/decreased 2 rows instead of 3 (because of chunkier yarn)
• Knitted to about 6 inches before decreases, with the result of the hat being just a little too deep/long/big. Hoping it will shape to my preference during blocking.
• Decreases in pattern is a little off, as 68/9=7.5. Number of stitches after decreasing for the flap should be divisible by 8, 9 or 10, which is easily fixed.

Notes to self for using Drops Eskimo yarn:

• cast on 72+12 stitches = 84
• increase and decrease twice, rather than three times
• knit to 5 1/2 inches before decreasing

LOVED this hat. I’m planning to eventually knit more, both for myself, and as gifts for others.