I have made this hat twice before this, once in November, and once in December. Made as a slouchy style both times, but this time wanted to modify it for a ponytail.
To create my own bulky yarn, I held together two strands of Lion Brand Touch of Alpaca with one strand of Liom Brand Mandala.
I went to about round 18 of the pattern, then began the decreases, then just used a crochet hook to slip stich through live loops around a ponytail band.
I think the recipient will be happy with this, I think it turned out pretty well!