Hats - we need hats

We have been busy recruiting help with our hats and scarves program.  This is one of our favorite programs as we work with local food shelves who make sure each child gets a hand-made hat or scarf with their toy/gift at Christmas.  It’s pretty hard to say no to a child - so consider making a hat or scarf of your choice - or better yet, make a couple, as we need literally thousands.  Here’s a hat with no counting!

ANY SIZE NO COUNT WINTER HAT                  

Leaving a long tail (10”), chain a length equal to the crown to cheek dimension of your planned hat, including a cuff if desired.

Row 1:  Sc in back loop of second chain from hook.  Sc in back loop of each chain across.  Ch1, turn.

Repeat Row 1 until desired length of your piece is the circumference of the head.  An adult ranges from 19” to 24”, a child is about the size of a cantaloupe.  End when you are at the opposite side from your long starting tail. 

Finish back seam.  Holding the starting and ending edge together, slip stitch through the back loop of your ending edge and the open loop from the starting chain, across to the end.  Finish off, leaving a long tail (10”). 

Closing the top:  Tie the two tails together at the tip.  Weave this doubled thread through the end of the rows, gathering up the edge tightly.  Knot and secure the tail inside the top of the hat.  I usually leave about a 3” end exposed inside the top of the hat in the rare event that it might open later.