Double pointed needles

[AprilBxoxo]

I have a pattern to knit a hat that I really like. My question is this....If the pattern calls for you dpn's at the crown of the hat, do you have to use dpn's? Is there a reason for this or can you continue to knit on two needles to the tip of the hat?

I have not mastered dpn's yet lol and mine are the metal ones so they slip all the time and drive me batty lol!

Thanks!