Needle Size?

[SherKnit]

Ok, I have misplaced by size 8 needles that I do ALL my hats on and if I use my size 7 (as my nine's have a project on them already) the question is this:

I normally cast on 80 stitches, do you think that this is still close enough to do, or should I add 8 stitches (pattern in 8s)? The hat is normally a big snug but stretches (plush yarn).

THANKS IN ADVANCE!!!

[brittyknits]

I would try a guage swatch and see if the 8 extras will work. I'm guessing you're getting about 4 stitches per inch with your 8s? So if you switch to 7s, you're possibly adding a little less than 2 inches, and if it's already snug. . .hmmm. . .try it!

[suzeeq]

I don't think the 8 extra sts are necessary. I've found there really isn't a lot of difference in the st gauge going up or down one size. CO about 20 sts with the 7s and knit a few rows to see how that comes out.