Benjamin bunny hat

The beloved character from the Peter Rabbit series, Benjamin Bunny, is back.  He has been updated but still as loveable as ever.  A friend asked me if I could knit a hat like Benjamin's for her young daughter who loves this fun little guy.  Of course I said!  I've been wanting to move away from strictly following patterns and this was the perfect opportunity.  That and I can't wait to see her fact when she opens the package!

If you're interested in making one for a little someone in your life, I've included the instructions below.  This is my first time posting instructions for use by others so please provide feedback if something doesn't seem to make sense.

Benjamin Bunny Toddler Hat

Aran or worsted weight (4) acrylic yarn used.  I apologize, I didn't do a swatch to give gauge.

Finished size 17 inches around (Stretches easily to 20 inches)

Size 8 double points

Cast On (CO)  80

You may want to add a stitch marker to mark the beginning of the rows

Body of hat

*K2, P2* Repeat to end

Continue with K2, P2 until ribbing measures 2.5 inches.  

K all stitches until hat measures 6.5 inches from beginning of work.

Decrease for top of hat

Row 1: *K7, K2tog* repeat to end (8 times)

Row 2:  K all stitches

Row 3: *K6, K2tog* repeat to end

Row 4:  K all stitches

Row 5: *K5, K2tog* repeat to end

Row 6:  K all stichtes

Row 7: *K4, K2tog" repeat to end

Row 8:  K all stitches

Row 9: *K3, K2tog* repeat to end

Row 10: K all stitches

Row 11: *K2, K2tog* repeat to end

Row 12:  K all stitches

Row 13: *K2tog* repeat to end (8 stitches)

Break yarn and pul through loops.  Bind off.

Earflaps

CO 18 stitches

Rows 1-11: Stockinette stitch (Purl odd rows and knit even rows)

Row 12: K2tog, K 14, K2tog

Row 13: Purl

Row 14: K2tog, K12, K2tog

Row 15: Purl

Row 16: K2tog, K10, K2tog

Row 17: Purl

Row 18: K2tog, K8, K2tog

Row 19: Purl

Row 20: K2tog, K6, K2tog

Row 21: Purl

Row 22: K2tog, K4, K2tog

Row 23: Purl

Row 24: K2tog, K2, K2tog

Row 25: Purl

Row 26: Knit 

Row 27: Bind off

These make longer earflaps than a typical hat.  As you see from the photo, Benjamin's have the same look.  

I hope your enjoy my version of the Benjamin Bunny hat.  I'm sure the little one you're creating it for will too.

Keep being awesome!
Laura