So I went to Spotlight today as their yarns were on special... and I walked out with a big bag with a lot of wool in it.  Whoops.  I also got a ball of Lion brand Wool-Ease, which is a super chunky yarn (at least twice the size of 14 ply) with 10% wool in it and the rest acrylic and rayon.  I got that because I'm making my brother a beanie from a different pattern, here:  https://www.allfreeknitting.com/Mens-Knit-Hats/Harrisons-Ribbed-Hat which should cover his ears well in case of cold. I think it looks a bit denser even when it's on the needles, so here's hoping it doesn't turn out too lacy. @Judi9877 , I also showed my mother the stallion 8 ply pattern and she's talked me into trying to knit it after the beanie - do you have any tips on this?