Make a magic circle, double crochet into the circle 8 times. Join with slip stitch. Ch 2. Make 2 double crochets in each stitch, for a total of 16 stitches. Join.
Ch 2. Make 2 double crochets in first stitch then 1 double crochet in next stitch. Repeat all the way around. Join.
Ch. 2. Make 2 double crochets in first stitch, then 1 double crochet in next TWO stitches. Repeat all the way around. Join.
Continue, using this pattern (2 double crochets in first stitch, then 1 double in next THREE stitches, etc.), until hat is the circumference you want.
Continue around until hat is the length you want.
Since it's a preemie hat, the pom pom is a lot smaller. I wrapped yarn around my index finger over 150 times. Trimming with scissors is how to get the ball smaller and tighter.
