Pretty Puffs Not-So-Slouchy Hat

I can't remember where I first saw this hat, but it's popped up everywhere I've looked recently. Here's the pattern, from Crafty Pants! Here's a discussion on Craftster. Here's another version. Here's a crochet-along. Here's a whole bunch on Flickr.

It's really quick and easy to make. I didn't have any yarn thick enough, or a 6mm crochet hook, but Elle Pure New Wool DK and a 4mm hook worked well enough. With a thicker hook and yarn it would definitely be more slouchy. The nice thing about the pattern is that you can try it on as you go. I added a few rounds at the bottom, to compensate for the tighter gauge.

And I have this pattern to thank for finally knowing where to join crochet rounds to avoid a spiral seam.

Oh, and about the puff stitch description in the pattern: I found myself doing an extra step, pulling the yarn through all but the last 2 loops, then making a yarn over and pulling it through. Seemed to make them puffier, but I can't be sure. It's just the way I learned.