What's been on my needles lately

 Jarbo Raggi yarn - looks like a sock monkey sort of yarn in a Christmas theme

 Plymouth Encore yarn - simple skull and cross bone Fair Isle

 Noro Kureyon yarn

 Plymouth Encore yarn - Zombie hat worn by Ryan, an Attorney from work

 Serah and Ryan, Attorney's from work modeling their hats

 Cascade Yarns 220 Superwash yarn - Simple jogless striped hat

 Plymouth Encore yarn - Simple Fair Isle hat

Plymouth Encore yarn - Zombie hat with crosses - Fair Isle

YouTube video's - Learn to knit a hat on circular needles

SmoothFoxHelperCindy is learning to knit so I decided to make her a few video's.  After making the video's for her, I thought a couple of people out there might want to watch them also so I've made them available to the public.  I'm not an expert knitter and don't claim to be.  Anyone new to knitting who wants to follow along, we will be knitting a simple stripped knitted hat.  I've just been updated today - finally - with YouTube so I can now make longer video's.  We're not talking full length movies mind ya LOL, however I should be able to get a full project into one video.

When I was first learning to knit I searched for video's to learn to knit a hat.  However I wanted it put together all in one project so I could see how a full hat was made.  All I found were video's that never showed the entire project so I was highly frustrated.  There are 4 video's below and I'll be adding more to this blog posting to complete the entire hat within the next few days.

I'm hoping that Cindy doesn't get to frustrated in me because I'm not an expert but I just figured she could watch more experienced knitters if she got stumped on a certain part or I could do another video.  My problem in these video's is that Cindy is working the hat flat (not on a circular knitting needle) and I'm trying to show her how to use circular knitting needles for a hat.

I have no doubt that those experienced knitters out there who are familiar with working a hat "flat" will find fault with the video's and if you will email me (not all at once) with my mistakes, as I still have more video's to make for Cindy, I'll address what I told her in prior video's that was incorrect from your emails.

Donna SmoothFoxLover@yahoo.com

Part one 

Part two

Part 3

Part 4

SmoothFox's Happy Skull Hat for Little Pirate Girls and Boys - free pattern

  

Photo courtesy of MarieAnge Brouillard aka MariAngel (ravelry id)
SmoothFox’s Happy Skull Hat for Little Pirate Girls and Boys

 

Created by Donna Mason-Svara aka SmoothFox  ©2011  Version 4.0

Vanna's Choice - Soft 4-ply medium worsted

Color A: Aqua (main colour for face)

Color B: Fern (2^nd colour for background)

Needle Size: US 7 – 4.5 mm  20” circular needle or 16” circular needle

                     US 8 – 5 mm  - 20” circular needle or 16” circular needle

                     US 8 – 5 mm - 1 set of double-pointed needles

Skill level:  Intermediate

Gauge: 5 stitches and 5 Rounds to 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Hat Sizes: Preemie, Baby, Toddler
Preemie hat circumference 12”  (30.50 cm) - CO is 60
Baby hat circumference – 14.5”  (36.75 cm) – CO is 72
Toddler hat circumference – 16” (40.5 cm) - CO is 84

Notions: Stitch Markers, Yarn Needle

Stitches Used:
K               Knit
K2tog        Knit 2 stitches together
*Ssk          Slip 1 stitch knitwise, slip 2^nd stitch knitwise, knit both stitches together
PM            Place marker
Slip Marker  move marker from one needle to the other when you encounter it in the round.

* If you are not familiar with the ssk (slip slip knit) decrease stitch, here is a video demonstrating the technique used.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGwcYW3GG3M&feature=related

SPECIAL STITCHES
** For color stranding longer than 3 sts, please familiarize yourself with this video to avoid holes in your project.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B33SUeSwubE&feature=related

*/** The above are videos I found on the web.  They are not my videos. 

My Ravelry Store: http://www.ravelry.com/stores/smoothfox-crochet-designs
My Etsy Store: http://SmoothFox.etsy.com
My Crochet & Knit related gifts: http://zazzle.com/smoothfox*
My blog: http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/ 

If you want a .pdf copy of this pattern, want the chart or if you make this item – please click on this link below and add your own pictures as a project on Ravelry. Just click on the crochet hook with the words “Hook It” if this is a crochet pattern or if it is a knit pattern click on the words “Cast On” near the top right side and this will add your item as a project. Then you can add the pictures when you have completed your project.
 http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/free-smoothfoxs-happy-skull-hat-for-little-pirate-girls-and-boys

Thank you once again MarieAnge Brouillard aka MariAngel (ravelry id) for all of your wonderful help with this pattern. 

INSTRUCTIONS for size changes are within [ ]
With smaller needles and color A and using the long-tail method, CO on for 60 [72, 84] sts, place marker and join in the round, being careful not to twist.

Round 1 thru 6: Work 6 rounds of (colour A) K2, (color B) P2 ribbing

SWITCH TO LARGER NEEDLES HERE
Round 7: (color A) knit around

Round 8: (color A) K12, *insert marker, K12* repeat from * around.

Use 1 marker that is distinct from the others to show the beginning of the round.

SmoothFox's Happy Skull Hat For Little Pirate Girls and Boys Hat at Tricksy Knitter

Round 29:  *(color A) knit around

Measure hat to see if it is the approximate length you’d like. Hat measurements are approx 5.5” [14 cm] (6” [15.25 cm], 6.5” [16.5 cm]) before decreasing depending on your preferences. Repeat round 29 as many times as needed before your decrease rounds begin.  Proceed to decrease rounds.

On the last repeat of round 29, stop when there are 2 stitches left before the beginning marker. From here on, these will be the first 2 stitches of each round. Do not remove the markers.

Please ensure that the first marker that marks the beginning of the round is of a different color than the rest. Each round begins 2 stitches before the first marker.

DECREASE ROUNDS:

OPTIONAL:  Alternate between color A and color B every stitch for all decrease and knit rounds.  IE: Color A-K1, Color B-K1

NOTE - The 2 stitches at the beginning before the marker are actually the last 2 stitches of the previous round. On the decrease rounds, those 2 stitches will be knit together, then the stitch marker slipped from one needle to the other, followed by the ssk decrease.

Round 1: k2 stitches, slip marker, k12, *slip marker, k12* repeat around, stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker. (5 [6, 7] markers, and 5 [6, 7] sections with 12 stitches between each marker)

Round 2: Decrease round Beginning with the 2 stitches before the first marker, k2tog, slip marker, *ssk, k8, k2tog,slip marker,* repeat from * to * around. Stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker. (5[6,7] k2tog, 5[6, 7] ssk, total of 10 stitches between each marker)

Round 3: k2 stitches, slip marker, k12, *slip marker, k12* repeat around, stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker.  (10 stitches between markers)

Round 4: Decrease round Beginning with the 2 stitches before marker 1, k2tog, slip marker, *ssk, k6, k2tog,slip marker,* repeat from * to * around. Stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker. (5[6,7] k2tog, 5[6, 7] ssk, total of 8 stitches between each marker)

Round 5: k2 stitches, slip marker, k12, *slip marker, k12* repeat around, stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker. (8 stitches between markers)

Round 6: Decrease round Beginning with the 2 stitches before marker 1, k2tog, slip marker, *ssk, k4, k2tog,slip marker,*, repeat from * to * around. Stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker. (5[6,7] k2tog, 5[6, 7] ssk, total of 6 stitches between each marker)

Round 7: k2 stitches, slip marker, k12, *slip marker, k12* repeat around, stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker.  (6 stitches between markers)

Round 8: Decrease round Beginning with the 2 stitches before the first marker, k2tog, slip marker, *ssk, k2, k2tog,slip marker,*, repeat from * to * around. when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker. (5[6,7] k2tog, 5[6, 7] ssk, total of 4 stitches between each marker)

Round 9: k2 stitches, slip marker, k12, *slip marker, k12* repeat around, stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker.  (4 stitches between markers)

Round 10: Decrease round Beginning with the 2 stitches before the first marker,k2tog, slip marker, *ssk, k2, k2tog,slip marker,*, repeat from * to * around. Stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker. (5[6,7] k2tog, 5[6, 7] ssk, total of 2 stitches between each marker)

Optional: You may take one more decrease round for the toddler hat if needed.

Cut yarn leaving an 8" tail. Using a large-eyed darning needle run thread through remaining stitches and fasten off. Weave in ends and finish off.

Created by Donna Mason-Svara aka SmoothFoxLover@yahoo.com 2011

This pattern has been tested.  Please notify me of any pattern corrections. I will answer any and all questions you may have with the instructions.  Do not plagiarize this pattern.  All patterns are my original designs. Please do not re-sell my patterns or give them away for free or post my patterns on the Internet. You may sell items you make from my patterns at craft fairs, fund raisers or custom orders for friends and family but please do not sell finished items on the internet without my written permission. Do not claim designs as your own.

This pattern is copyrighted by me and I give my permission for you to post pictures of items made from my pattern on your website if you will post a link back to my Ravelry store if the pattern is for sale.  If the pattern is free, please direct people to my Blog.  Be sure to list the name SmoothFox as the designer. 

SmoothFox's Cool Skull Hat for Guys and Gals- free pattern

Photo courtesy of Kelly Albrecht

SmoothFox’s Cool Skull Hat for Guys and Gals

Yarn: 4-ply Medium Worsted

Color A:   (main colour for background)

Color B:  (colour for skulls)

Needle Size:  US 7 – 4.5 mm 20” circular needle or 16” circular needle

                      US 8 – 5 mm - 16" or 20" circular needles and 1 set of dpn

Skill level:  Intermediate

Gauge: 5 stitches and 5 Rounds to 1 inch (2.5 cm)

Hat Size: Teen/Woman, Man

Adult hat circumference – 19” (48 cm) - CO is 96

Adult Large hat circumference - 21.5” (54.5 cm) - CO is 108

Notions: Stitch Markers plus 1 distinct from the others to show beginning of round plus a yarn needle to weave ends.

* If you are not familiar with the ssk (slip slip knit) decrease stitch, here is a video demonstrating the technique used. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGwcYW3GG3M&feature=related

* For color stranding longer than 3 sts, please familiarize yourself with this video to avoid holes in your project.  

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B33SUeSwubE&feature=related

* The above are videos I found on the web.  They are not my videos.  

My Ravelry Store: http://www.ravelry.com/stores/smoothfox-crochet-designs

My Etsy Store: http://SmoothFox.etsy.com

My Crochet & Knit related gifts: http://zazzle.com/smoothfox*

My blog: http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/  

If you want a .pdf copy of this pattern which includes the chart or if you make this item – please click on this link below and add your own pictures as a project on Ravelry. Just click on the crochet hook with the words “Hook It” if this is a crochet pattern or if it is a knit pattern click on the words “Cast On” near the top right side and this will add your item as a project. Then you can add the pictures when you have completed your project.

 http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/free-smoothfoxs-cool-skull-hat-for-guys-and-gals

Thank you once again MarieAnge Brouillard aka MariAngel (ravelry id) for all of your wonderful help with this pattern. 

INSTRUCTIONS for size changes are within ( )

With smaller needles and color A and using the long-tail method, CO on for 96 (108) sts, place marker and join in the round, being careful not to twist.

Round 1 thru 6: Work 6 rounds of (colour A) K2, (color B) P2 ribbing

SWITCH TO LARGER NEEDLES HERE

Round 7: (color A) knit around

Round 8: (color A) K12, *insert marker, K12* repeat from * around

Smoothfox's Cool Skull Hat for Guys and Gals Hat at Tricksy Knitter

Round 35:  *(color A) knit around

Measure hat to see if it is the approximate length you’d like.  Hat should measure approximately 6.5” to 7.5” [16.5 to 19 cm] before decreasing depending on your preferences. Repeat round 35 as many times as needed before you begin the decrease rounds. 

On the last repeat of round 35, stop when there are 2 stitches before the beginning marker. From here on, this will be the first 2 stitches on each round. Do not remove the markers!

DECREASE ROUNDS:

Please ensure that the first marker that marks the beginning of the round is of a different color than the rest. Each round begins 2 stitches before the first marker.

OPTIONAL:  If you desire, alternate between color A and color B every stitch for all the decrease and knit rounds. IE: Color A-K1, Color B-K1 

Round 1: k2 stitches, slip marker, k12, *slip marker, k12* repeat around. Stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker. (8 [9] markers, and 8 [9] sections with 12 stitches between each marker)

Round 2: Decrease round Beginning with the 2 stitches before the first marker, k2tog, slip marker, *ssk, k8, k2tog,slip marker,* repeat from * to * around. Stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker. (8 [9] k2tog, 8 [9] ssk, total of 10 stitches between each marker)

Round 3 and 4: k2 stitches, slip marker, k12, *slip marker, k12* repeat around. Stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker. (10 stitches between markers)

Round 5: Decrease round Beginning with the 2 stitches before the first marker, k2tog, slip marker, *ssk, k6, k2tog,slip marker,* repeat from * to * around. Stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker. (8 [9] k2tog, 8[9] ssk, total of 8 stitches between each marker)

Round 6 and 7: k2 stitches, slip marker, k12, *slip marker, k12* repeat around, stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker.  (8 stitches between markers)

Round 8: Decrease round Beginning with the 2 stitches before the first marker, k2tog, slip marker, *ssk, k4, k2tog,slip marker,*, repeat from * to * around. Stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker.  (8 [9] k2tog, 8[9] ssk, total of 6 stitches between each marker)

Round 9 and 10: k2 stitches, slip marker, k12, *slip marker, k12* repeat around, stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker.  (6 stitches between markers)

Round 11: Decrease round Beginning with the 2 stitches before the first marker, k2tog, slip marker, *ssk, k2, k2tog,slip marker,*, repeat from * to * around. Stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker. (8 [9] k2tog, 8 [9] ssk, total of 4 stitches between each marker)

Round 12 and 13: k2 stitches, slip marker, k12, *slip marker, k12* repeat around, stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker. (4 stitches between markers)

Round 14: Decrease round Beginning with the 2 stitches before the first marker,

k2tog, slip marker, *ssk, k2, k2tog,slip marker,*, repeat from * to * around. Stop when you have reached the first 2 stitches before the beginning marker.(8 [9] k2tog, 8 [9] ssk, total of 4 stitches between each marker)

You may opt to do one more decrease round before finishing off.

Cut yarn leaving an 8" (20 cm) tail. Using a large eyed darning needle run thread through remaining stitches and fasten off. Weave in ends and finish off.

Created by

Donna Mason-Svara aka SmoothFoxLover@yahoo.com 2011

This pattern has been tested.  Please notify me of any pattern corrections. I will answer any and all questions you may have with the instructions.  Do not plagiarize this pattern.  All patterns are my original designs. Please do not re-sell my patterns or give them away for free or post my patterns on the Internet. You may sell items you make from my patterns at craft fairs, fund raisers or custom orders for friends and family but please do not sell finished items on the internet without my written permission. Do not claim designs as your own.

This pattern is copyrighted by me and I give my permission for you to post pictures of items made from my pattern on your website if you will post a link back to my Ravelry store if the pattern is for sale.  If the pattern is free, please direct people to my Blog.  Be sure to list the name SmoothFox as the designer.

SmoothFox's Got Milk? Baby Knit Hat - Free Pattern

THIS ENTIRE PATTERN HAS BEEN REWRITTEN TO INCLUDE TWO DIFFERENT CHARTS.  THERE IS NOW A PATTERN FOR PREEMIE'S, NEWBORNS AND TODDLERS.  PLEASE CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO GET A FRESH COPY.

SmoothFox’s Got Milk? Knit Hat

Created by Donna Mason-Svara aka SmoothFox ©2011 Version 2.0

SUGGESTED YARN

Hobby Lobby “I Love This Yarn!” 4 ply Medium Worsted
Preemie, Newborn Hat - Color A: Soft Green   
Preemie, Newborn Hat - Color B: Ivory
Toddler Hat - Color A: Ivory
Toddler Hat - Color B: Light Taupe

NEEDLE SIZE
Preemie: US 6 - 4.0 mm 16” circular, 1 set of double-pointed needles US 6 4.0 mm
Newborn to 12 months, Toddler: US 8 - 5.0 mm 16” circular needle, 1 set of double-pointed needles, size US 8 – 5.0 mm

Gauge:
Preemie: 6 sts and 8 rounds to an inch
Newborn / Toddler: 4 stitches and 6 rounds to an inch

Notions: Stitch markers, Yarn Needle

SIZING
Preemie (5 ½ - 6 lbs) – Circumference 12”, Hat height 5”
Newborn – 6 Months – Circumference 14”, Hat height 6”
Toddler - Circumference 18", Hat height = 8”

SPECIAL STITCHES
For color stranding longer than 3 sts, please familiarize yourself with this video to avoid holes in your project. This is not my video. Here is a YouTube video with the instructions:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B33SUeSwubE&feature=related

RELATED WEBSITES
Ravelry: http://www.ravelry.com/stores/smoothfox-crochet-designs
Etsy: http://smoothfox.etsy.com/
Crochet & Knit related gifts: http://zazzle.com/smoothfox*
Blog: http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/

If you want a .pdf copy of this pattern (Charts included) or if you make this item – please click on this link and add your own pictures as a project on Ravelry. Just click on the crochet hook with the words “Hook It” if this is a crochet pattern or if it is a knit pattern click on the words “Cast On” near the top right side and this will add your item as a project. Then you can add the pictures when you have completed your project.

http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/free-smoothfoxs-got-milk-knit-pattern

I wish to give a special thank you to Jennifer Stover for all of her knitting insight, suggestions and beautiful pictures. She helped me so very much and I appreciated her help more than she knew. She is one special lady!

These patterns have been tested. Please notify me of any pattern corrections. I will answer any and all questions you may have with the instructions. Do not plagiarize this pattern. All patterns are my original designs. Please do not re-sell, give away or post my patterns on the internet. You may sell items you make from my patterns at craft fairs, fund raisers or custom orders for friends and family but please do not sell finished items on the internet without my written permission. Do not claim designs as your own.

These patterns are copyrighted by me and I give my permission for you to post pictures of items made from my pattern on your website if you will post a link back to my Ravelry store if the pattern is for sale. If the pattern is free, please direct people to my Blog: http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/  Be sure to list the name SmoothFox as the designer.

Preemie and Newborn Got Milk? Hat

Cast on 60 sts (US 6 - 4.0 mm for Preemie and US 8 - 5.0 mm for Newborn) using color A on circular needle, place marker to mark beginning of round, join stitches.

Rounds 1 thru 6: * K2, P2, repeat for ribbing *
Rounds 7 thru 11: Knit
Begin chart:

Round 26: Knit
Repeat Round 26 until hat is 5” (preemie), 6” (newborn) from cuff (est. 6-8 more rows)

DECREASE ROUNDS - Use color A for all decrease rounds and change to dpn’s when sts get tight to knit.

Round 1: * K4, K2tog, repeat from * (50 sts)
Round 2 and all even rows: Knit
Round 3: * K3, K2tog, repeat from * (40 sts)
Round 5: * K2, K2tog, repeat from * (30 sts)
Round 7: * K1, K2tog, repeat from * (20 sts)
Round 9: * K2tog, repeat * (10 sts)
Round 11: * K2tog, repeat * (5 sts)

Cut yarn leaving an 8" tail. Using yarn needle, run yarn through remaining stitches. Weave in ends and cut tails.

Toddler Got Milk? Hat

Cast on 72 sts using color A on circular needle, place marker to mark beginning of round, join stitches.

Rounds 1 thru 5: *K2, P2 * repeat for ribbing.
Rounds 6 thru 7: Knit
Begin Chart:

Round 30: (color A) Knit
Repeat Round 30 until hat measures 6”

DECREASE ROUNDS - Use color A for all decrease rounds and change to dpn’s when sts get tight to knit.

Round 1: * K7, K2tog repeat from * (64 sts)
Round 2 and all even Rounds: Knit
Round 3: * K6, K2tog repeat from * (56 sts)
Round 5: * K5, K2tog repeat from * (48 sts)
Round 7: * K4, K2tog, repeat from * (40 sts)
Round 9: * K3, K2tog, repeat from * (32 sts)
Round 11: * K2, K2tog, repeat from * (24 sts)
Round 13: * K1, K2tog, repeat from * (16 sts)
Round 15: * K2tog, repeat from * (8 sts)
Round 17: * K2tog, repeat from * (4 sts)
Cut yarn leaving a 8" tail. Using yarn needle, run yarn through remaining stitches and fasten. Weave in ends and cut tails.

SmoothFox's Double Heart Knit Illusion Scarf - Free Pattern

SmoothFox’s Double Heart Knit Illusion Scarf

Created by Donna Mason-Svara aka SmoothFox ©2011 Version 1.0

Hobby Lobby “I Love This Yarn!” 4 ply Medium Worsted, 1 skein of each color, 7oz, 355 yds
Color A: Soft Blue (darker contrasting color)
Color B: White (lighter contrasting color)

Needle Size: 6 – 4 mm
Skill level: Advanced Beginner
Size: 7” wide x 64”
Gauge: 4.5 sts and 8 rows equal 1 inch
Yarn Needle
Row Counter

My Ravelry Store: http://www.ravelry.com/stores/smoothfox-crochet-designs
My Etsy Store: http://smoothfox.etsy.com/
My Crochet & Knit related gifts: http://zazzle.com/smoothfox*
My blog: http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/

If you want a .pdf copy of this pattern or if you make this item – please click on the link below and add your own pictures as a project on Ravelry. Just click on the crochet hook with the words “Hook It” if this is a crochet pattern or if it is a knit pattern click on the words “Cast On” near the top right side and this will add your item as a project. Then you can add the pictures when you have completed your project.

To receive the pattern click this link:  SmoothFox's Double Heart Knit Illusion Scarf

Thank you Thelma and Emanuela for testing this pattern.  Emanuela is working on an Italian translation which will be available in the future.

Happy Knitting!
Donna

SmoothFox's I Love You Hearts Knit Hat - Free Pattern

SmoothFox’s I Love You Hearts Knit Hat

Created by Donna Mason-Svara aka SmoothFox ©2011 Version 1.0

Hobby Lobby “I Love This Yarn!” 4 ply Medium Worsted
Color A: Pink
Color B: White

Needle Size: US 7 – 4.5 mm 16” circular needle
                    1 set of double-pointed needles, size US 7 – 4.5 mm

Skill level: Advanced Beginner
Gauge: 5 stitches and 5 Rounds to an inch
Size: Toddler/Child
Yarn Needle
Stitch Makers plus one as a beginning of round marker of different color

SPECIAL STITCHES:
For color stranding longer than 3 sts, please familiarize yourself with this video to avoid holes in your project. This is not my video. Here is a YouTube video with the instructions:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B33SUeSwubE&feature=related

My Ravelry Store: http://www.ravelry.com/stores/smoothfox-crochet-designs
My Etsy Store: http://smoothfox.etsy.com/
My Crochet & Knit related gifts: http://zazzle.com/smoothfox*
My blog: http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/

If you want a .pdf copy of this pattern with charts included or if you make this item – please click on this link and add your own pictures as a project on Ravelry. Just click on the crochet hook with the words “Hook It” if this is a crochet pattern or if it is a knit pattern click on the words “Cast On” near the top right side and this will add your item as a project. Then you can add the pictures when you have completed your project.

PATTERN LINK BELOW: 

http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/free-smoothfoxs-i-love-you-hearts-knit-hat

INSTRUCTIONS:

Cast on 80 sts using color A, place marker to mark beginning of round, join stitches.

Round 1 thru 6: K2, P2 ribbing for 6 Rounds.

Round 7 thru 8: (color B) K80

CHART IS ONLY VISIBLE IF YOU DOWNLOAD THE PATTERN (SEE ABOVE)

Insert markers every 10 stitches on round 10

Round 9 thru 10: (color A) K80

Round 11: *(color A) K9, (color B) K1,* repeat from * around

Round 12: *(color B) K1, (color A) K7, (color B) K2* repeat from * around

Round 13: *(color B) K2, (color A) K5, (color B) K3* repeat from * around

Round 14 thru 15: *(color B) K3, (color A) K3, (color B) K4* repeat from * around

Round 16: *(color B) K2, (color A) K5, (color B) K2, (color A) K1* repeat from * around

Move markers to every 8 stitches on round 17

Round 17 thru 18: (color A) K80

Round 19: *(color B) K1, (color A) K7, (color B)* repeat from * around

Round 20: *(color B) K2, (color A) K5, (color B) K1* repeat from * around

Round 21 thru 22: *(color B) K3, (color A) K3, (color B) K2* repeat from * around

Round 23: *(color A) K1, (color B) K1, (color A) K5, (color B) K1* repeat from * around



Move markers to every 5 stitches on round 24


Round 24 thru 25: (color A) K80


Round 26: *(color A) K4, (color B) K1* repeat from * around

Round 27: *(color B) K1, (color A) K2, (color B) K2* repeat from * around

Round 28: *(color B) K1, (color A) K2, (color B) K1, (color A) K1* repeat from * around

Move markers to every 8 stitches on round 29

Round 29 thru 30: (color A) K80

DECREASE ROUNDS

Use color A for all decrease rounds

Round 1: (K6, K2tog) repeat around (70 sts remaining)

Round 2: Knit

Round 3: (K5, K2tog) repeat around (60 sts remaining)

Round 4: Knit

Round 5: (K4, K2tog) repeat around (50 sts remaining)

Round 6: Knit

Round 7: (K3, K2tog) repeat around (40 sts remaining)

Round 8: Knit

Round 9: (K2, K2tog) repeat around (30 sts remaining)

Round 10: Knit

Round 11: (K1, K2tog) repeat around (20 sts remaining)

Round 12: Knit

Round 13: K2tog, repeat around (10 sts remaining)

Round 14: K2tog, repeat around (5 sts remaining)

Cut yarn leaving a 8" tail. Using large eyed sewing needle run thread through remaining stitches and fasten off. Weave in ends and finish off.

Created by Donna Mason-Svara aka SmoothFoxLover@yahoo.com 2011

This pattern has not been tested. Please notify me of any pattern corrections. I will answer any and all questions you may have with the instructions. Do not plagiarize this pattern. All patterns are my original designs. Please do not re-sell my patterns or give them away for free or post my patterns on the Internet. You may sell items you make from my patterns at craft fairs, fund raisers or custom orders for friends and family but please do not sell finished items on the internet without my written permission. Do not claim designs as your own.

This pattern is copyrighted by me and I give my permission for you to post pictures of items made from my pattern on your website if you will post a link back to my Ravelry store if the pattern is for sale. If the pattern is free, please direct people to my Blog. Be sure to list the name SmoothFox as the designer.

SmoothFox's Baby Bubbles Knit Hat - Free Pattern

Created by Donna Mason-Svara aka SmoothFox ©2010 Version 2.0

Lion Brand Yarn “Vanna’s Choice” 4 ply Medium Worsted, 1 skein of each color, 7oz, 355 yds
Color A: Silver Blue
Color B: Pearl Mist

Needle Size: US 8 – 5 mm 16” circular needle
1 set of double-pointed needles, size US 8 – 5mm

Skill level: Intermediate
Gauge: 4 stitches and 5 Rounds to an inch
Size: 3 to 6 months
Yarn Needle

SPECIAL STITCHES:
For color stranding longer than 3 sts, please familiarize yourself with this video to avoid holes in your project. This is not my video. Here is a YouTube video with the instructions:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B33SUeSwubE&feature=related

My Ravelry Store: http://www.ravelry.com/stores/smoothfox-crochet-designs
My Etsy Store: http://smoothfox.etsy.com/
My Crochet & Knit related gifts: http://zazzle.com/smoothfox*
My blog: http://smoothfoxlover.blogspot.com/

If you want a .pdf copy of this pattern or if you knit this item – please click on this link and add your own pictures as a project on Ravelry. Just click on the icon with the words “Cast On” near the top right side and this will add your item as a project. Then you can add the pictures when you have completed your project.

http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/free-smoothfoxs-baby-bubbles-knit-hat

INSTRUCTIONS:
The chart is only available if you download this pattern through the above link.

Cast on 64 sts using color A, place marker to mark beginning of Round, join stitches.

Round 1 thru 6:  K2, P2 ribbing for 6 Rounds.
Round 7 thru 8: (color B) Knit

Insert markers every 8 stitches on round 10

Round 9 thru 10: (color A) Knit

Round 11:  *(color A) K3, (color B) K2, (color A) K3* repeat from * around

Round 12 thru 14:  *(color A) K2, (color B) K4, (color A) K2* repeat from * around

Round 15:   *(color A) K3, (color B) K2, (color A) K3* repeat from * around

Round 16: (color A) Knit

Round 17:  *(color B) K1, (color A) K6, (color B) K1* repeat from *around

Round 18 thru 20:  *(color B) K2, (color A) K4, (color B) K2* repeat around

Round 21:   *(color B) K1, (color A) K6, (color B) K1* repeat from *around

Round 22 thru 23: (color A) Knit

Round 24 thru 25: (color B) Knit

DECREASE ROUNDS – move to dpn’s when knitting becomes tight

Round 1:  (K6, K2tog) repeat around (56 sts remaining)

Round 2:  Knit this and all even numbered rounds

Round 3:  (K5, K2tog) repeat around (48 sts remaining)

Round 5:  (K4, K2tog) repeat around (40 sts remaining)

Round 7:  (K3, K2tog) repeat around (32 sts remaining)

Round 9:  (K2, K2tog) repeat around (24 sts remaining)

Round 11: (K1, K2tog) repeat around (16 sts remaining)

Round 13: K2tog, repeat around (8 sts remaining)

Cut yarn leaving a 8" tail. Using large eyed yarn needle run thread through remaining stitches and fasten off. Weave in ends and finish off.

Created by Donna Mason-Svara aka SmoothFoxLover@yahoo.com 2010

This pattern has not been tested. Please notify me of any pattern corrections. I will answer any and all questions you may have with the instructions. Do not plagiarize this pattern. All patterns are my original designs. Please do not re-sell my patterns or give them away for free or post my patterns on the Internet. You may sell items you make from my patterns at craft fairs, fund raisers or custom orders for friends and family but please do not sell finished items on the internet without my written permission. Do not claim designs as your own.

This pattern is copyrighted by me and I give my permission for you to post pictures of items made from my pattern on your website if you will post a link back to my Ravelry store if the pattern is for sale. If the pattern is free, please direct people to my Blog. Be sure to list the name SmoothFox as the designer.

Day two of my vacation

Tuesday- Day two of my vacation:

I created a chart using Excel for a skull and decided I would try super hard to try to get my tension the same when using both hands to knit.  I designed it thinking I could put two sets of skulls across the hat but apparently I did too much of the stripes plus I used a fluffy yarn.

I work for the Public Defenders office and I designed this hat with a special Attorney in mind who I call the Devil's Pawn sometimes.  He really is a cool Attorney who always has me in stitches laughing but he has a dark side sometimes when he comes back from court.  He'll walk past me and sorta growl because of the hard day he's had. I call the hat Skull Hat For A Cool Guy.  The more I stare at those skulls all I needed to do was put two horns on each skull and it would definately have been the devil.

I wasn't sure how many stitches around a hat for a man should be.  This hat is going to be a tight squeeze for him.  If he can't wear it, I'll give it to a teenage kid son of one of my co-workers who will love it I'll bet.

I learned the following:

1. Each of my hands knits with a different tension.

2.  I can design a chart that can be used to knit a hat.

3. I have never used alternating colors when doing the decreases in the top of a hat.  I still haven't mastered how to make it look pretty.  When you K2tog and there are 2 colors of yarns, I didn't know which I should work the stitch with

If anyone is interested, I wrote the pattern down and you can test it by sending me an email for the pattern called Skull Hat For A Cool Guy.

Donna SmoothFoxLover@yahoo.com

Day one of my vacation

Monday - Day one of my vacation:

Ahhh... I wanted to do some Fair Isle knitting in more than just one color for the chart.  So this is my first real trial of following someone's chart and doing Fair Isle knitting to create more of a picture on something.  I did alter the chart slightly and learned a couple of things.  

This hat is for a baby just over 3 months old.

1.  I should try to stick close to the chart colors because my green is too pale.  It doesn't show the cute flowers with the white petals.

2.  I altered the chart up by the eye area.  The chart called for 2 colors, yellow and black.  I didn't want black where the sky should go so I used 3 colors of yarn to do the Fair Isle.  That was a first for me.

3.  I taught myself to do two handed color knitting.

If anyone is interested, I used US 8MM circular needles, US 8MM dpn's, CO was 63 stitches.  I created the hat pattern and have used the basic hat pattern several times now.  If I get enough feedback, I'll post the basic pattern.

I hope the picture is clickable.

Here is the link to the free chart that I used:  Sheep Chart

Donna