Cabled Earflap Hat

This hat is so fun and quick to knit. I knit mine in 2 evenings, then even in the 90 degree F heat I didn't want to take it off. It's as fun to wear as it was to make. The thick yarn makes it a very quick knit, and the pattern is interesting enough to hold my attention for the duration of the knitting.

A few stitches are cast on for the center top of the hat. The stitches are worked on double pointed needles and increases are worked for the crown. Once the increases are finished, the cable ribs are worked with the circular needle. One earflap is worked, then the other. I-cords are made and attached to the front and back of the hat, then they are braided.

Finished measurements:
20" circumference

Yarn Requirements:
Duchess by Classic Elite
40% merino, 28% viscose, 15% nylon, 10% cashmere, 7% angora
50 gram ball = approx 75 yards
• 2 balls 1058 Royal Red

Knitting Needles:
• one 16" circular size US 11 (8 mm)
Or size to obtain gauge.
• one set double pointed needles each size US 10 and 11 (6 and 8 mm)
• stitch marker
• cable needle

Gauge: 16 sts and 19 rows = 4" in Cable Rib, slightly stretched, using larger needles. Take time to save time, check your gauge.