Un-astrakhan hat

Seems that this year, after heavy media exposure of the unfortunates in Afghanistan, what's mostly come through to the public has been how cool their traditional astrakhan hats look... All we have to say to that is "STOP! In the name of lambs..."

Seriously, our new Poof yarn is perfect as a substitute for lamb fetus pelts - incredibly soft, warm, and with just the right curly texture. Worked up in the most basic of crochet stitches it makes a very plush fabric that gives a cruelty-free version of the original.

Level of difficulty

Beginner (and really quick too!).

Size

Adult medium.

Finished measurements

22" around, 15" high.

Materials

2 balls Crystal Palace Poof (47yd/50g) color 9375 (kelim), 100% microfiber nylon.
Crochet hook size K+ (7mm)

Gauge

6 st = 4" (10cm)

Stitches used

US:
Chain st(ch).
Slip st (sl st).
Single crochet (sc): insert hook, yo, draw through 2 loops on hook.

GB:
Chain st(ch).
Single crochet(sl st).
Double crochet(sc).

DIRECTIONS

ROW 1: Ch 36, very loosely. sl st into first st to make a circle.

ROW 2: Ch 1 to turn. Single crochet into each following st. Sl st in top of first st to close round.

ROW 3-n: Continue similar rows of single crochet, till you run out of yarn, after using 2 balls.

Finishing:
Fold cylinder in half, aligning the end row so that last stitch is at the end. Slip stitch the top closed. Bind off.
Work in ends with yarn needle.

Wear with a large brim turn, and top points aligned in center of your head.

Model: Alfred Eberle