Ideal Preemie Hat pattern (for charity knitting)

I have combined a variety of preemie hat patterns that I have come across as a consequence of trial, error, and a desire to make the hat comfortable for a little head in an incubator.  The result is the following pattern:

Ideal Preemie Hat Pattern

Materials: 

4 size US 7 double pointed needles or one size US 7 cable needle (40” cable, approximately) for largest size, US 5 for middle size and small size; if you go smaller, use a  US 4. 

Approximately 50 (60, 70) yards of fingering weight or other light-weight yarn (3-ply works best for this pattern)

Notes:  You will be knitting in the round to avoid a side seam on the hat. Smallest size is intended for a 4-5 lb. preemie with an 8” head. Largest size is intended for 12” head or 6 to 7 lbs.

Pattern Instructions:

CO 52 (58, 64) stitches, splitting stitches fairly evenly across three needles.  If using a cable, divide stitches in half across both sides of the cable.

Knit one round, then K1, P1 ribbing for approximately 6 rows or ¾ inch.

Knit every row for next 3 (3.25, 3.5) inches.

Begin decreases. 

*K2 tog, K3, repeat from * around.

K around.

*K2 tog, K2, repeat from * around.

K around.

*K2 tog, K1, repeat from * around.

K around.  If working on 3 needles, slip last st of round onto 1^st needle.

SSK around.

SSK around.

Clip yarn, leaving a 6” tail.  Draw yarn through remaining stitches, pull tightly to close opening, and secure.  Weave in all ends.

Pattern composed by K. Kuhn for use in charity knitting.

All rights reserved. 4/26/2010.