Free Crochet Pattern - Crazy Frog Hat for kids going through chemo

CRAZY FROG HAT - CHEMO HAT FOR KIDS
by Darleen Hopkins

Edging A

Edging B

Edging C

**Please use cotton yarn for softness on tender skin.**

**Lion Brand CottonEase and Bernat CottonTots are great yarns for this project. Unfortunately, both have been discontinued. Use a similar, soft yarn in worsted weight for this project.**

**Red Heart Super Saver, although great for many projects, is NOT a good yarn for chemo hats.**

Check out Halos of Hope's Yarn Recommendations list.

Please note, this pattern is copyrighted and may not be reproduced or redistributed. Completed hats may NOT be sold as the distribution of this free pattern is to promote awareness of the need for fun children’s chemo hats. Please make one for Halos of Hope or another organization that collects and distributes kids’ chemo hats. For more information and where to donate, please go to www.halosofhope.org.

YARN/NOTIONS:
Lion Brand CottonEase, 50% cotton, 50% acrylic, 3.5 oz skein, or equivalent (worsted, 4)
1 skein Lime/green (main color)
Small amount white (eye color), black (eye color and mouth) and red (optional tongue)
Stitch marker
Small amount of poly-fiberfill

SKILL LEVEL: Easy.  Must be able to work in the round.

CROCHET HOOKS:
I/9 (5.50 mm)
H/8 (5.00 mm) or size needed to obtain correct gauge
G/6 (4.25mm)
F/5 (3.75mm)

GAUGE: If your final diameter is 6-6½ inches, your hat will fit most kids 5 years old to teen. Hats should be about 1 inch less than the desired head circumference.  100% cotton yarns stretch less and may need to be made closer to actual head circumference. When measuring gauge/diameter, always place the tape measure at the last stitch made and then measure through the middle, directly across for an accurate measurement.
Circumference = 3.141592 X diameter

Use the following chart as a guideline:

SIZES:
Small/Medium: Fits approximate 19”-20½” head circumference (3 years-6 years)
Finished measurements ~ approximate 18¾” circumference, 7” length

Medium/Large: Fits approximate 20½”-22” head circumference (5 years-teen)
Finished measurements ~ approximate 20½” circumference, 7½” length

NOTES: Pattern is written in US terms.

Unless otherwise noted, the hat and eyes are worked in a continuous spiral, do not join rounds. Mark the beginning of each round.

ABBREVIATIONS, SPECIAL STITCHES & TECHNIQUES:
Rnd(s) = round(s)
Ch = chain
Sl st = slip stitch
Sc = single crochet
Hdc = half double crochet

Magic circle/adjustable ring = See tutorial at http://crochetbydarleenhopkins.com/2013/01/23/magic-circle-aka-adjustable-ring-how-to/

Invisible decrease = Invisible decrease should be worked when the right side is facing. Insert hook under front loop of first stitch. Insert hook under front loop of second stitch. Yarn over, pull through 2 loops on hook, yarn over and pull through last 2 loops on hook.

Reverse single crochet (optional) = Without turning work, single crochet in opposite direction, to the right if right-handed, and to the left if left-handed.

HAT
Both Sizes: Green yarn and H hook
Rnd 1) Using magic circle/adjustable ring method, see above, ch 1 then work 8 sc into ring. Tighten.
Rnd 2) 2 Hdc in each sc around. (16 stitches)
Rnd 3) *Hdc in next hdc, 2 hdc in next hdc; repeat from * 7 more times around. (24 stitches)
Check gauge, 2” diameter.
Rnd 4) *Hdc in next 2 hdc, 2 hdc in next hdc; repeat from * 7 more times around. (32 stitches)
Rnd 5) *Hdc in next 3 hdc, 2 hdc in next hdc; repeat from * 7 more times around. (40 stitches)
Check gauge, 3½” diameter.
Rnd 6) *Hdc in next 4 hdc, 2 hdc in next hdc; repeat from * 7 more times around. (48 stitches)
Rnd 7) *Hdc in next 5 hdc, 2 hdc in next hdc; repeat from * 7 more times around. (56 stitches)
Check gauge, 5” diameter.

Small/Medium only
Rnd 8) *Hdc in next 6 hdc, 2 hdc in next hdc; repeat from * 7 more times around. (64 stitches)
(See gauge note) Check gauge, 6” diameter.
Rnds 9-20) *Hdc in next hdc; repeat from * around. (64 stitches)
Rnd 21) *Hdc in next hdc; repeat from * for 60 stitches, sc in next 2 stitches, sl st in last 2 stitches. (64 stitches) Continue to Edging.

Choose 1 of 3 Edgings-
Edging A) Continue with H hook, [sc-ch 3] in each stitch. Break off yarn and work in ends. (64 [sc-ch 3] repeats)

Edging B) Switch to I hook, sl st in each front loop of previous round. Break off yarn and work in ends. (64 stitches)

Edging C) Continue with H hook, ch 1 then reverse sc in each stitch. Break off yarn and work in ends. (64 stitches)

Medium/Large only
Rnd 8) *Hdc in next 6 hdc, 2 hdc in next hdc; repeat from * 7 more times around. (64 stitches)
(See gauge note) Check gauge, 6” diameter.
Rnd 9) Round 9 is a ½ round.* Hdc in next 7 hdc, 2 hdc in next hdc; repeat from * 3 more times around. (36 stitches) Mark as new beginning of round. Check gauge, 6½” diameter.
Rnds 10-23) * Hdc in next hdc; repeat from * around. (68 stitches)
Rnd 24) *Hdc in next hdc; repeat from * for 64 stitches, sc in next 2 stitches, sl st in last 2 stitches. (68 stitches)  Continuing to Edging.

Choose 1 of 3 Edgings-
Edging A) Continue with H hook, sc-ch 3 in each stitch. Break off yarn and work in ends. (68 sc-ch 3 repeats)

Edging B) Switch to I hook, sl st in each front loop of previous round. Break off yarn and work in ends. (68 stitches)

Edging C) Continue with H hook, ch 1 then reverse sc in each stitch. Break off yarn and work in ends. (68 stitches)

Both Sizes
EYES (make 2) G hook
Rnd 1) Black yarn-using magic circle/adjustable ring method, see above, ch 1 then work 8 sc into ring, sl st to the first stitch in the round to join. Tighten and break off yarn.
Rnd 2) Join white yarn in any stitch, ch 1 and then 2 sc in each sc around.  Sl st to the first stitch in the round to join. (16 stitches) Break off yarn.

Work rounds 3 - 6 in a continuous spiral, do not join rounds. Mark the beginning of each round.

Rnd 3) Join green yarn in any stitch, ch 1 *sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc; repeat from * 7 more times around. (24 stitches) This is a good point to tie off ends on the inside of the eye.
Rnds 4-6) *Sc in next sc; repeat from * around. (24 stitches)

Switch to F hook

Rnd 7) *Sc in next sc, invisible decrease; repeat from * 7 more times around. (16 stitches)
Rnd 8) Invisible decrease 8 times around. (8 stitches) Stuff eye with poly-fiberfill.
Rnd 9) Invisible decrease 4 times. (4 stitches) Break off yarn leaving a long tail for sewing.

OPTIONAL TONGUE
H hook and red yarn, ch 6.

Rnd 1) Sc in second chain from hook. Sc across then continuing on the opposite side of the same chain, sc across. (10 stitches)
Rnds 2) - 5) Sc in each sc. (10 stitches each round) end with a sl st. Break off yarn leaving a long tail for sewing. If you would like to make a longer tongue, repeat rnds 2 -5 until you reach the desired length.

ASSEMBLY
Using the photos as a guide, attach the eyes. I like to position the eyes toward the front, in between the crown increases, evenly spaced at about round 9 or 10. Also, tack the eyes so they are “looking” forward, not off to the side or up. Stitch the frog’s mouth/tongue on the front of the hat. Either hand stitch or work surface stitches with an H hook. Work in ends as smoothly as possible and then donate the hat :)
Enjoy!

Free Crochet Pattern - Best Little Dishcloth EVER!

This pattern originally appeared in the Fall issue of Crochetvolution, 2013.

Please note, this pattern is copyrighted and may not be reproduced or redistributed.

Want to be the first to know about my latest FREE patterns? Sign up for RSS or subscribe via email (see sidebar). On Facebook? "Like" for all sorts of crochet fun, updates and coupon codes.  Join the Crochet by Darleen Hopkins newsletter, http://crochetbydarleenhopkins.com/newsletter/.

The Sponge vs. The Dishcloth.

Some people feel very strongly about one or the other. Me-I prefer sponges and don’t care for dishcloths. I always found them too big and bulky and they slopped the soapy water all over the place. I always liked sponges; so small and compact they could fit inside my reusable water bottles to clean them and also tackle the dishes without a hitch. But sponges are icky. We’ve all heard or read the reports about how kitchen sponges and dishcloths are breeding grounds for bacteria. So what are we supposed to do? Use a sponge once then throw it out? Use paper towels? Not only is that wasteful, but expensive too. The eco-conscious, thrifty, crafty lady inside me knew there was a better way. Designing my own perfect dishcloth was the only logical solution. The result: a handmade dishcloth, small enough to work like a sponge but machine washable so it could be replaced daily. It doesn’t get any easier than this!

The Best Little Dishcloth EVER! Make a stack of them and pull out a fresh, clean, germ-free one as needed-at least once a day or more often if you do a lot of cooking and cleaning throughout the day. They are small enough to be laundered with your regular laundry and not take up much space at all.

Want a cute gift idea? Make a week’s worth and pair them up with some handmade soap. Tie with raffia and you’ve got an instant handmade gift.


FINISHED SIZE: 4.5” X 5”

MATERIALS:

• Bernat Handicrafter Cotton Twists [100% cotton; 603yd/551m per 12oz/340g skein]  One dishcloth uses approximately ½ oz or 25 yards of yarn.
• H/5.0mm hook

GAUGE: Not important

NOTES: Written with standard US stitches.

• Ch-chain
• Sc-single crochet

Working in the Back Bump.

By working the 1st row of stitches in the back bump of the chain, the result is a nicer finished edge that matches the top edge. If you have trouble with this, work in the chain as you normally would. It isn’t essential to the project.  If you would like to see a video on this method, please visit this page: http://crochetbydarleenhopkins.com/2013/06/14/starting-crochet-working-in-the-back-bump-video-how-to/

PATTERN

Ch 21

http://freecrochetpatternsbydarleen.blogspot.com/

1) Work in the back bump, see below. Sc-ch 1 in 2nd ch from hook, skip next ch, *sc-ch 1, skip next ch; repeat from * 7 more times, sc twice. Ch 1 and turn. (20 stitches)

 2-18) Sc-ch 1 in 1st, skip next stitch, *sc-ch 1 in the ch 1 space from the previous row, skip next stitch; repeat from * 7 more times, sc in ch 1 in space from previous row, sc in last, ch 1 and turn. (20 stitches)

After row 18, break off yarn, work in ends and scrub away.

Free Crochet Pattern - Bunny Rabbit Costume Hat

Free Crochet Pattern - Bunny Rabbit Costume Hat

It’s the middle of October and my favorite holiday, Halloween, is right around the corner.  So it only makes sense I’d design a Bunny hat-right?  Why not?  Bunny rabbits aren’t just for Easter.  There can be lots of bunnies for Halloween!  Maybe Santa had a bunny helper-who knows.  The point is, if you want to be a bunny, you can be a bunny, regardless of what holiday is approaching. Check out this pattern on Ravelry and see how others have made this hat.   And as always, feel free to make as many as you like for personal use or for charity. Enjoy!

Please note, this pattern is copyrighted and may not be reproduced or redistributed. Distribution of this free pattern is to promote awareness of the need for fun children’s chemo hats. Please make one for Halos of Hope or another organization that collects and distributes kids’ chemo hats. For more information and where to donate, please go to www.halosofhope.org

Want to be the first to know about my latest FREE patterns? Sign up for RSS or subscribe via email (see sidebar). On Facebook? "Like" for all sorts of crochet fun, updates and coupon codes. Joint the Crochet by Darleen Hopkins Newsletter http://crochetbydarleenhopkins.com/newsletter/.

NOTE: I recently found out CottonTots has been discontinued : (  How sad.  You can use any worsted weight yarn, just watch your gauge check points and adjust your hook as necessary.

 YARN/NOTIONS: 

• 1 skein Bernat CottonTots 100% cotton, 3.5 oz skein, or equivalent in Sweet Cream. Small amount of Country Pink
• Stitch marker 
• Yarn needle
• H/8 (5.00 mm) hook or size needed to obtain correct gauge

SKILL LEVEL:

Easy

GAUGE:

If your final diameter is 6-6.5 inches, your hat will fit most kids 5 years old to teen. Hats should be about 1 inch less than the desired head circumference. (100% cotton yarns stretch less, shrink with frequent washing and may need to be made closer to actual head circumference.) When measuring gauge/diameter, always place the tape measure at the last stitch made and then measure through the middle, directly across for an accurate measurement.

NOTES:

Pattern is written using standard US stitches.  

• ch=chain 
• sl st = slip stitch
• sc = single crochet 
• hdc = half double crochet
• RS = right side
• WS = wrong side
• sc2tog = single crochet two together (decrease)
• magic circle/adjustable ring See this web post for photo tutorial

EARS, make 2 of each

 1) With pink yarn, ch 4, sc in 2^nd ch from hook, sc in next 2, ch 1 and turn. (3 sc)

2-12) Sc in each, ch 1 and turn.

13) Sc2tog, sc, ch 1 and turn.

14) Sc2tog, break off yarn.

Edging row 1) Mark as RS. Attach yarn in lower right corner, 13 sc up side in each row, 3 sc in tip, 13 sc down side of each row, ch 1 and turn. 

Edging row 2) Sc in next 14, 3 sc in tip, sc in next 14. (31 sc)  Break off yarn.

1) With white yarn, ch 6, sc in 2^nd ch from hook, sc in next 4 chs, ch 1 and turn. (5 sc)

2-13) Sc in each, ch 1 and turn.

14) Sc2tog, sc, sc2tog, ch 1 and turn.

15) Sc2tog, sc, ch 1 and turn

16) Sc2tog, break off yarn.

Edging row 1) Mark as RS.  Attach yarn in lower right corner, 15 sc up side in each row, 3 sc in tip, 15 sc down side of each row, ch 1 and turn. 

Edging row 2) Sc in next 16, 3 sc in tip, sc in next 16, ch 1 and turn. (35 sc)

Joining ears-hold pieces WS together.  Insert hook from the back of the white layer thru the pink layer and work them together as if they were one stitch.  Starting in the lower left sc join the next 13 sc pulling through both the white and the pink ears, 14th white sc with the 14th pink sc, 15th white sc with the 14th pink sc, 16th white sc with 15th pink sc,  17th white sc with the 15th pink sc, 18th white sc with the 16th sc, 19th white sc with the 17th pink sc, 20th white sc with the 17th pink, 21st white sc with the 18th pink sc,  22nd white sc with the 18th pink sc,  join the remaining 13 white sc with the remaining 13 pink sc, (35 sc) ch 1, turn and sc in each 35 sc.  Break off yarn leaving a long tail to join ear to hat.

Pinch the bottom of the ears prior to attaching.  Attach ears to round 6 of the hat, see below.

HAT worked in a continuous spiral, do not join rounds. Mark the beginning of each round.

Small/Medium

Fits approximate 19”-20½” head circumference (3 years-6 years)

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS ~ approximate 18¾” circumference, 8” length

1) Using magic circle/adjustable ring, ch 1 then work 8 sc into ring. Tighten.

2) 2 hdc in each sc around. (16 stitches)

3) * Hdc in next, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (24 stitches)

Check gauge, 2” diameter.

4) * Hdc in next 2, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (32 stitches)

5) * Hdc in next 3, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (40 stitches) 

Check gauge, 3½” diameter.

6) * Hdc in next 4, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (48 stitches)

7) * Hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (56 stitches)

Check gauge, 5” diameter.

8) * Hdc in next 6, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (64 stitches)  

(See Gauge note) Check gauge, 6” diameter.

Rounds 9)-22) * Hdc in next; repeat from * around. (64 stitches)

23-24) * Sc in each around. (64 stitches), sl st, break off yarn.

  

Medium/Large 

Fits approximate 20½”-22” head circumference (5 years-teen)

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS ~ approximate 20½” circumference, 8½” length

1) Using magic circle/adjustable ring, ch 1 then work 8 sc into ring. Tighten.

2) 2 hdc in each sc around. (16 stitches)

3) * Hdc in next, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (24 stitches)  

Check gauge, 2” diameter.

4) * Hdc in next 2, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (32 stitches)

5) * Hdc in next 3, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (40 stitches)

Check gauge, 3½” diameter.

6) * Hdc in next 4, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (48 stitches)

7) * Hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (56 stitches)

Check gauge, 5” diameter.

8) * Hdc in next 6, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (64 stitches)

9) Round 9 is a ½ round.

* Hdc in next 7, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 3 more times around. (36 stitches total)

Mark as new beginning of round. (See Gauge note) Check gauge, 6½” diameter.

Rounds 10)-23) * Hdc in next; repeat from * around. (68 stitches)

24-26) * Sc in each around. (68 stitches), sl st, break off yarn.

Free Crochet Pattern - Baby Chick or Baby Bird Hat

Chirp! Chirp! Tweet! Tweet!

I decided to write up this quick free pattern when I was working on my Stash Bust Challenge 2013.  I had a few full skeins left and wanted something quick, without striping ends to deal with and of course, cute.  All my colors left in the stash challenge were adorable baby blues, pale yellow and pinks.  The colors reminded me of Easter and got me thinking of baby chicks and birds.  I had also recently finished some Owl Hats and decided to keep going with the bird theme.  There are few other chick/bird patterns available.   Some have added flowers or bows.  I think adding one of the Spring Blossoms flowers is really cute. I hope you like my interpretation of this classic hat.

Color ideas:
Yellow with orange feathers for Chick
Yellow with yellow feathers for Canary
Blue for Bluebird
Red for Cardinal and wintertime
Black for Crow and fall
Pink for Flamingo (make tip of beak black)
Green for Parakeet or Parrot
White for Snowy Owl (yellow eyes, black beak)
White with red feathers for a Rooster
Black with white on last two rows for Penguin

Feel free to make as many as you like for personal use or for charity.  I ask that my free patterns not be used for profit as they are designed with charity in mind.  There are plenty of for sale patterns available from independent designers (myself included) who give permission to sell items completed from their patterns. 

Please note, this pattern is copyrighted and may not be reproduced or redistributed. Completed hats may NOT be sold as the distribution of this free pattern is to promote awareness of the need for fun children’s chemo hats. Please make one for Halos of Hope or another organization that collects and distributes kids’ chemo hats. For more information and where to donate, please go to www.halosofhope.org

Want to be the first to know about my latest FREE patterns?  Sign up for RSS or subscribe via email (see sidebar).  On Facebook?  "Like" for all sorts of crochet fun, updates and coupon codes.  Join the Crochet by Darleen Hopkins Newsletter http://crochetbydarleenhopkins.com/newsletter/.

 YARN/NOTIONS: 

• 1 skein Bernat CottonTots 100% cotton, 3.5 oz skein, or equivalent  
• Small amount yellow or orange for beak 
• 2 buttons, approx. 1/2 to 3/4 inch diameter (do not use buttons for child younger than 3 yrs)
• Stitch marker 
• Yarn needle
• Optional ribbon
• H/8 (5.00 mm) hook or size needed to obtain correct gauge
• Hook one size smaller for beak and feathers

SKILL LEVEL: Easy

   

GAUGE: If your final diameter is 6-6.5 inches, your hat will fit most kids 5 years old to teen. Hats should be about 1 inch less than the desired head circumference. (100% cotton yarns stretch less, shrink with frequent washing and may need to be made closer to actual head circumference.) When measuring gauge/diameter, always place the tape measure at the last stitch made and then measure through the middle, directly across for an accurate measurement.

NOTES: Pattern is written using standard US stitches.  

• ch=chain 
• sl st = slip stitch 
• sc = single crochet 
• hdc = half double crochet 
• magic circle/adjustable ring See this web post for photo tutorial

HAT worked in a continuous spiral, do not join rounds. Mark the beginning of each round.

Small/Medium

Fits approximate 19”-20½” head circumference (3 years-6 years)

  

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS ~ approximate 18¾” circumference, 8” length

1) Using magic circle/adjustable ring, ch 1 then work 8 sc into ring. Tighten.

2) 2 hdc in each sc around. (16 stitches)

3) * Hdc in next, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (24 stitches)

Check gauge, 2” diameter.

4) * Hdc in next 2, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (32 stitches)

5) * Hdc in next 3, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (40 stitches)

Check gauge, 3½” diameter.

6) * Hdc in next 4, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (48 stitches)

7) * Hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (56 stitches)

Check gauge, 5” diameter.

8) * Hdc in next 6, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (64 stitches)

(See Gauge note) Check gauge, 6” diameter.

Rounds 9)-22) * Hdc in next; repeat from * around. (64 stitches)

23-24) * Sc in each around. (64 stitches), sl st, break off yarn.

  

Medium/Large 

Fits approximate 20½”-22” head circumference (5 years-teen)

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS ~ approximate 20½” circumference, 8½” length

  

1) Using magic circle/adjustable ring, ch 1 then work 8 sc into ring. Tighten.

2) 2 hdc in each sc around. (16 stitches)

3) * Hdc in next, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (24 stitches)

Check gauge, 2” diameter.

4) * Hdc in next 2, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (32 stitches)

5) * Hdc in next 3, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (40 stitches)

Check gauge, 3½” diameter.

6) * Hdc in next 4, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (48 stitches)

7) * Hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (56 stitches)

Check gauge, 5” diameter.

8) * Hdc in next 6, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (64 stitches)

9) Round 9 is a ½ round.
* Hdc in next 7, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 3 more times around. (36 stitches total)
Mark as new beginning of round. (See Gauge note) Check gauge, 6½” diameter.

Rounds 10)-23) * Hdc in next; repeat from * around. (68 stitches)

24-26) * Sc in each around. (68 stitches), sl st, break off yarn. 

Beak

Use smaller hook.

Row 1) Ch 2, sc in 2nd ch from hook,ch 1 and turn.
Row 2) 3 Sc, ch 1 and turn
Row 3) 2 Sc in 1st, sc, 2 sc in last, ch 1 and turn.
Row 4) Sc in each.  Break off yarn.

Top Feathers

With smaller hook, ch 8, sl st in farthest ch from hook, ch 15, sl st in farthest ch from hook (same as previous).  Break off yarn.

Finishing

Sew beak, front and center with the bottom tip on the last hdc round.  Sew on button eyes (see this post for tips on button eyes).  Sew feathers to top center.  Work in all ends.  Add an optional ribbon bow or a cute flower and ENJOY!

Free Crochet Pattern - Football Beanie Chemo Hat

I've had a couple people ask me for a beanie version of the Slouchy Football Hat.  Originally I wrote the pattern as a beanie but then revised it for the slouchy version.  I just found the original beanie version, so here it is.  It's written for one size only.  If you can do a little math, you can adjust this pattern to fit just about any head size.

Math Lesson
Circumference = 3.141592 X diameter

Please note, this pattern is copyrighted and may not be reproduced or redistributed. Completed hats may NOT be sold as the distribution of this free pattern is to promote awareness of the need for fun children’s chemo hats. Feel free to make as many as you like for personal use or for charity.   Please don't sell completed items from my free patterns as they are written to help promote charity, not for the profit of others.  There are plenty of independent designers (myself included) who allow completed items to be sold from their commercial patterns.

For more information and where to donate, please go to www.halosofhope.org

Exact gauge is not especially important. If your diameter is 6-6.5 inches, you hat will fit most kids 5 years old to teen. An average 5 year old boy’s head circumference is 19.68 inches and an average 9 year old boy’s head is 20.75 inches. A hat with a diameter of 6 inches will yield a hat of approximately 18.85 inches in circumference, 6.25 inch diameter will yield a circumference of 19.63 inches and a 6.5 inch diameter will yield a hat with a circumference of 20.42 inches. Hats should be about 1 inch less than the desired head circumference. For this style hat you may want to try to get your diameter to 6-6.25 inches for the younger heads. But if it is 6.5 inches, I’m sure a child will fit into it. My just turn 9 year old son has a head circumference of 21.25 inches, a good half inch larger than average and he likes his hats loose.

If you like the pattern and want to see more, either subscribe to this blog via RSS or sign up for automatic email updates-see the sidebar.  LIKE on Facebook for even more!  Join the Crochet by Darleen Hopkins Newsletter http://crochetbydarleenhopkins.com/newsletter/.

YARN/NOTIONS

• Bernat Cottontots, 100% cotton,1 skein County Taupe/brown ,1 skein white  
• Stitch marker 

CROCHET HOOK: H/8 (5.00 mm) hook or size needed to obtain correct gauge 

SKILL LEVEL: Easy

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS: approximate 18 3/4" to 20 ½" circumference, 7 1/4" in length

Hat is worked in a continuous spiral, do not join rounds. Mark the beginning of each round.

Brown yarn and H hook

Round 1) With magic loop method , 8 sc into loop. Tighten.

Round 2) 2 Hdc in each sc around. (16 stitches)

Round 3) * Hdc in next, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (24 stitches)

Round 4) * Hdc in next 2, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (32 stitches)

Round 5) * Hdc in next 3, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (40 stitches)

Round 6) * Hdc in next 4, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (48 stitches)

Round 7) * Hdc in next 5, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (56 stitches)

Round 8) * Hdc in next 6, 2 hdc in next; repeat from * 7 more times around. (64 stitches)

Check diameter should be between 6" and 6 1/2"

Round 9) Change to white yarn but do not break off brown yarn, just pick it back up on round 10, *hdc in next hdc; repeat from * around. Break off white yarn and change to brown yarn. (64 stitches)

Rounds 10)-19) *Hdc in next hdc; repeat from * around. Change to white yarn but do not break off brown yarn, just pick it back up on round 20. (64 stitches)

Round 20) With white yarn, *hdc in next hdc; repeat from * around. Break off white yarn and change to brown yarn. (64 stitches)

Round 21) With brown yarn *hdc in next hdc; repeat from * for 60 stitches, sc, sc, slip stitch, slip stitch. Break off yarn and work in ends. (64 stitches)

Keeping color change joins in the back, hand stitch on the front of the hat the football lacing using the photo as a guide.  Enjoy!

https://crochetbydarleenhopkins.com/patterns/lovey-arnie-and-annie-alien-baby-lovey/

Free Crochet Pattern - Snowflake Ice Scraper Mitt

This pattern is a great way to use an old damaged wool sweater.  Felt it and cut the front and back to the appropriate size.  Don’t have an old sweater available?  Look at your local thrift store for a hidden treasure.  Or you could crochet the pieces.  Most wool shrinks by 20%-30% when felted.  Crochet two rectangles in half double crochet that is at least 16” X 13” and then felt it.  Trim it to the appropriate size as stated in the pattern.  Want to learn more about felting?  See this blog post for information about how to felt.  It's easy, it's fun, it's inexpensive and a great way to repurpose something old into something new and useful.

Please note, this pattern is copyrighted and may not be reproduced or redistributed.

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FINISHED SIZE: Mitt-11” X 9”, Snowflake-6” point to point.

SUPPLIES: Worsted weight 100% wool yarn or substitute any feltable worsted weight yarn
   F/ 5 3.75mm hook
   Two pieces of felted wool trimmed to 11” X 9” (perfect use of an old wool sweater)
   Ice scraper

GAUGE: Not important

SKILL LEVEL: Easy/Intermediate; requires concentration

NOTES: Pattern is written using standard US stitches.
sl st = slip stitch
ch  = chain
sc = single crochet
magic circle/adjustable ring = see this photo tutorial: http://crochetbydarleenhopkins.com/2013/01/23/magic-circle-aka-adjustable-ring-how-to/

Snowflake

Center Ring-unless otherwise noted, work in a continuous spiral, do not join rounds.  Mark the beginning of each round.

1) Using magic circle/adjustable ring method, work 8 sc in loop.  Tighten.

2) * Sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc; repeat from * 3 more times around. (12 stitches total)

Snowflake Point-first you will work the length of the point by chaining and working loops (Steps 1 - 4).  Then you will work back down the same chain by slip stitching into the chain and working loops on the opposite side of the loops already made (Steps 5 - 12). 

Note-be careful not to twist the chain and keep the loops to your right (left if left-handed).

Step 1) Sc in next stitch, ch 9, sl st in 6th chain from hook.  Loop (A) made.

Step 2) Ch 9, sl st in 6th chain from hook.  Loop (B) made.

Step 3) Ch 11, sl st in 8th chain from the hook.  Loop (C) made.

Step 4) Ch 6, sl st in both the slip stitch and the chain from loop (C).  See photo X.

Step 5) Working back down the chain, sl st in the next 3 chains.

Step 6) Sl st in both the slip stitch and the chain from loop (B).  See photo X.

Step 7) Ch 4, slip stitch in just the chain from loop (B).  See photo Y.

Step 8) Working back down the chain, sl st in the next 3 chains.

Step 9) Sl st in both the slip stitch and the chain from loop (A).  See photo X.

Step 10) Ch 4, slip stitch in just the chain from loop (A).  See photo Y.

Step 11) Working back down the chain, sl st in the next 3 chains.

Step 12) Sc in next stitch on the center ring.

Starting from Step 1, repeat 5 more times.  End with a sl st in the first sc from the first point. 
(6 snowflake points, 6 sc)

Photo X

Photo Y

 Assembly

Block the snowflake.  Sew the snowflake onto the first piece of felt. 
Place the two pieces of felt together (snowflake on top), and starting in the upper right corner, whip stitch down the first side of the mitt, sewing the two pieces together.  Turn the corner and continue whip stitching the two pieces together for 3 ½”.  Leave a 2” opening in the middle for the ice scraper (continue adding decorative stitching to one side) then finish whip stitching the bottom 3½” together.  Turn the corner and whip stitch the second side together.  Turn the last corner and whip stitch the first 1½” together.  Continue adding decorative stitching to one side of the felt for 6”.  This is the arm opening.  Whip stitch the last 1½” together.   Break off yarn.  Last, add decorative stitching to the two opening sides that were previously skipped. 
Enjoy!

Free Crochet Pattern - Party Hat

Free Crochet Pattern - Character Hat Party Hat

by Darleen Hopkins
Please note, this pattern is copyrighted and may not be reproduced or redistributed.  Feel free to make as many as you like for personal use or for charity.  I ask that my free patterns not be used for profit as they are designed with charity in mind.  There are plenty of for sale patterns available from independent designers (myself included) who give permission to sell items completed from their patterns.

Make every hat a Party Hat! Add this party hat to any character hat and you’ll be guaranteed smiles.

Some may wonder....Why a Party Hat for a Hat???

Halos of Hope was collecting Party Themed hats for a special camp. I decided to make some Party Animals and designed this quick add on. Great use of some leftover yarn. Decorate it with buttons, French knots, ribbons, pompoms-anything- stuff with some poly-fiber fill and sew it on your favorite character hat. PARTY ON DUDE!

Quick and easy pattern for you to decorate as you like.

This FREE pattern is for the hat add on only. Patterns for the ADORABLE Pig and Frog Hats available here: http://crochetbydarleenhopkins.com/patterns/hat-pig-oink-oink/
(Pattern for the Frog Hat is INCLUDED with the Pig Hat!)

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YARN/NOTIONS: 
Worsted weight yarn for main color
Small amount contrast colors
Stitch marker
Poly-fiberfill

CROCHET HOOK: 
H/8 (5.00 mm) or size needed to obtain correct gauge

GAUGE:  If you are using standard worsted weight yarn, your hat should work out to approximately the same finished size.    Gauge on Party Pig’s hat, 6 stitches = 2” 6 rows = 2”

SKILL LEVEL: Easy +

NOTES:  Pattern is written using US standard terms. 

The hat is worked in a continuous spiral, do not join rounds.

Mark the beginning of each round.

ch=chain
sl st = slip stitch
sc = single crochet
hdc = half double crochet
FPdc = front post double crochet
magic circle/adjustable ring = See photo tutorial here: http://crochetbydarleenhopkins.com/2013/01/23/magic-circle-aka-adjustable-ring-how-to/

Finished size, approximately 6” tall.

1)  Using magic circle/adjustable ring method, ch 1 then work 6 sc into loop.  Tighten.

2)  Hdc in each sc.  (6 stitches)

3)  * Hdc in next 2 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch; repeat (8 stitches)

4) Hdc in each stitch.  (8 stitches)

5)  * Hdc in next stitch, 2 hdc in next stitch; repeat from * 3 more times around. (12 stitches)

6)  Hdc in each stitch.  (12 stitches)

7)  * Hdc in next 2 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch; repeat from * 3 more times around. (16 stitches)

8)  Hdc in each stitch.  (16 stitches)

9)  * Hdc in next 3 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch; repeat from * 3 more times around. (20 stitches)

10)   Hdc in each stitch.  (20 stitches)

11)   * Hdc in next 4 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch; repeat from * 3 more times around.
(24 stitches)

12)   Hdc in each stitch.  (24 stitches)

13)   * Hdc in next 5 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch; repeat from * 3 more times around.
(28 stitches)

14)   Hdc in each stitch.  (28 stitches)

15)   * Hdc in next 6 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch; repeat from * 3 more times around.
(32 stitches)

16)   Hdc in each stitch.  (32 stitches)

17)   * Hdc in next 7 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch; repeat from * 3 more times around.
(36 stitches)

18)   Hdc in each stitch.  (36 stitches)

19)   * Hdc in next 8 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch; repeat from * 3 more times around.
(40 stitches)

20)   Hdc in each stitch.  (40 stitches)

21)   Sl st in next stitch, ch 2.  The remaining stitches will be worked around the post of each hdc
 from round 20. *3 FPdc in first stitch; repeat from * 39 more times around.  Sl st into ch 2.
(120 stitches)

MAKE IT FUN!
• Add buttons or French knots
• Tassels, pompoms or bells
• Change yarn colors every other row to create stripes. 
• You can create vertical stripes/swirls with surface stitches

Stuff with poly-fiberfill, attach party hat to character hat with whip stitches and work in ends. ENJOY!