stix and a ball of string....

A4A is in need of hats, socks, mittens and sweaters for the children of Afghanistan. They have set a goal of 5,000 and they are running very behind on their donations. They need help to meet that goal - come on, knitters let's join together and knit for the kids. Here is their plea:
".....For the upcoming winter, we especially need newly hand-knit and crocheted WOOL hats, mittens, socks, sweaters, and vests in sizes for children of all ages.
Please use 100% wool or mostly wool for these garments to provide maximum utility in harsh weather. (Acrylic garments will not be sent to Afghanistan.) Your gifts are needed by September 16 to ensure that our warm gifts arrive before the cold. Our goal is to clothe 5,000 girls and boys. If you have thought about participating, now in the time."
So..This weekend I have been working on wool hats for the kids. It is a wonderful project so if you have some spare time and some wool please consider this project. I have been using my super simple garter hat - it works up really quick and make a warm cozy hat for a little child. Bobby Bear is shown here modeling my latest hat made with Knitpicks WOTA yarn in Winter Night Blue. My pattern uses takes one (1) 110 yd. skein of wool but if you have some scraps it is lovely in different colors. Please help A4A keep these little children warm. All the information that you need concerning the project is on their website: http://www.afghansforafghans.org/.
If you would like to use my pattern - please feel free (only for charity purposes, please). It is a wonderful take-a-long pattern - no row counting - no stitch changes - just cast-on and knit. So get out that wool yarn, cast-on, and go. Short on time - drop it in your bag and do a few stitches on break at work, while watching TV, waiting at the doctor's office, at your child's ballgame - let's join together and keep a child warm this winter.

Super Easy Child's Hat
No. 8 straight Knitting Needles
110 yds. 100% wool yarn (I used Knitpicks Wool of the Andes)

Cast on 50 stitches.
Row 1: Knit
Repeat row 1 until rectangle measures 8.5 inches long.
Cut yarn leaving a tail 14-15 inches long. Remove from needles using gathering method. When you have gathered the top do not cut yarn, make a knot to hold top gathering then use yarn to sew side seam. Cut yarn, weave in ends, roll up brim and voila! Hat finished!
If you prefer not to sew side seam, then use circular needles.
....A perfect beginner hat, or an easy, no concentration project for the experienced knitter. It works up very quickly and will be so appreciated by the children.
...Well back to my hats - happy knitting all :)
*GB2G*