New Pattern

PREEMIE SPIRAL HAT

Yarn: DK weight or Sport weight baby yarn
Needles: US 5 dpns
Size: 1-3 lbs (3-5 lbs, 6-8 lbs)

Cast on 48 (56, 64) sts.
Divide stitches on three needles. Join in the round, being careful not to twist.
Work 1x1 ribbing for 1".
Increase one stitch at the end of the last round of ribbing. 49 (57, 65) sts.

Spiral Pattern:
This pattern is formed by working K2, P2 continually from round to round until hat measures 3 1/2" (4", 4 1/2") from cast on edge. Just in case you need to see it written out, here are the details...

Rnd 1 - *K2, p2, repeat from * to last stitch, k1.
Rnd 2 - K1, *p2, k2, repeat from * to end of round.
Rnd 3 - *P2, k2, repeat from * to last stitch, p1.
Rnd 4 - P1, *k2, p2, repeat from * to end of round.
Work these rounds until hat measures 3 1/2" (4", 4 1/2") from cast on edge.

Decreases:
Rnd 1 - K2tog around until last stitch, k1.
Rnd 2 - K around
Repeat these 2 rounds twice more (6 rounds total).

Finishing:
Cut yarn 6" long and pull through remaining stitches.
Pull tail to the inside and weave in all ends.
If desired, add pom-pom or other topper.

Additional Notes:
The yarn used for the hat pictured is DK weight Little Lehigh by Kraemer Yarns (45% cotton, 55% acrylic). It is made from the 3-5 lb size instructions. I have not tested the other two sizes yet.

I did not try to figure out how to continue the spiral pattern through the decreases, but it would give the hat a nicer look and shape. Feel free to experiment with this.

This pattern is for charity and personal use only. My hat will be donated to The Preemie Project.