Free Crochet Pattern Roundup: Pirates

Arrrr, today is International Talk like a Pirate day. Set sail with these free crochet patterns.
You need a crew. Here's pirate bear.

Free pattern from Crochet Me

And here's pirate duck.

Free pattern from jennyandteddy

If you can get Tony Tony Chopper on board, you're good to go.

Free pattern from Sasya

Your kids can join the crew

Free pattern from Red Heart

And of course there is a costume for you too, kid at heart.

Free pattern from Red Heart

Remember though when you're creating your look that people have a new idea of what pirates look like since this guy came along.

Free pattern from AH! Creations

Not ready to go full on pirate? Well, celebrate this fun day with a can cozy.

Free pattern from Lion Brand Yarn

Made: Hello Kitty Crochet Hat

My first crochet hat: free pattern from Crochet in Color

I've been slacking off on my posting. Just got back to work and it's been tiring, but I'm still crocheting along to keep me in zen mode.

Never thought I would make anything Hello Kitty, since I've always been more of a Little Twin Stars girl, but  my first hat is a Hello Kitty one, using the free pattern shared by Crochet in Color (thanks!) and it always feels good to be able to do something for your friends. Don't you agree?
Anyway, I would love some advice on how you determine the size and when to stop increasing. My first attempt, even though it seemed to be measured right, was way too big, so big that it fits me, even though I was aiming for a toddler hat. Now I'm waiting to hear if my second attempt fits or not. Crossing my fingers.
Here are some other free Hello Kitty crochet hat patterns I found: Inspirednest.ca • Crochet Creative Creations