Crochet a Hat

Buying hats is so overrated. Why do that when you can crochet one yourself? It's easy to crochet your own beanie hat. You can sport your own designs or give them as unique gifts. Beginners welcome!

Steps

  1. Take the measurements. Whether you're making this for an adult or a child will greatly change your yarn needs and crocheting tactics. Measure the circumference of the recipient's head. If that's not an option, follow these general guidelines[1]:
    • 3 - 6 mos: circumference = 13-14" (33 - 36 cm); hat height = 6.5 - 7" (15 - 18 cm)
    • 6 - 12 mos: circumference = 16 -19" (40 - 48 cm); hat height = 7.5" (18 cm)
    • Toddler: circumference = 18 - 20" (46 - 48 cm); hat height = 8" (20 cm)
    • Child: 19 - 20 1/2" (48 - 51 cm); hat height = 8.5" (22 cm)
    • Teens: 20 1/2 - 22" (53 - 56 cm); hat height = 9 - 10" (25 cm)
    • Adult woman: 21.5 - 22.5" (55 - 60 cm); hat height = 11" (28 cm)
    • Adult man: 23 - 24" (58 - 61 cm); hat height = 11 - 11.5" (28 - 30 cm)
    • The circumference of the hat should be a bit smaller than the circumference of the head. About 1 inch (2.5 cm) will do. The ones listed are general head circumferences, not hat circumferences.
  2. Gather your materials. To crochet a hat, you'll need one skein of yarn, a crochet hook, a plastic tapestry needle, and a pair of scissors. All of these items can be purchased at your local craft store.
  3. Crochet in the round. This simply means to join two ends of a chain and work in a circle. To get started, chain 4. Then join together with a slip stitch to form a circle.
  4. Make 8 single crochet stitches through the center of the ring then join together with a slip stitch. Then mark the beginning of the row. Where your hook is now is the "beginning" of your new row and where it will end when you've completed your next circle.
  5. Do 2 single crochets in each stitch around for a total of 16 stitches. Join together with a slip stitch.
  6. Start adding width to your beanie. On the next row, do 1 single crochet in the first stitch, then 2 in the next stitch. Repeat this step until you've achieved the width you want. Keep increasing your rounds until the circle you've created covers the top of the head.
  7. Do 1 single crochet in each stitch around. Repeat this step for as many rows as you'd like. Do fewer rows if you'd only like the hat to reach the top of the ears; do more if you want the ears covered.
  8. Add a brim, if you'd like. If you do choose to do this, simply increase your stitches again for a few more rows, by putting 1 single crochet in the first stitch, 2 in the next, and so on for as many rows as you like. Doing this to a only a few rows will make the end of the hat roll up a bit; doing it to several will create a floppier effect. Then tie off.
  9. Hide the tail. With the tapestry needle, weave the tail back into the stitches of the hat.
  10. Finished.



Tips

  • When selecting yarn, keep in mind both how heavy you want the hat to be and what your current crocheting skill level is. The best yarn for beginners is a medium weave that will make your stitches easy to see and count. Read the back label of the yarn and look for a number 4.
  • Get comfortable. It's best to work in an area devoid of loud noises--after all, you'll be doing a fair amount of counting. Pick a comfy armchair and sit for a spell.
  • As your skill increases, try alternating different colors or experimenting with new yarns and hook sizes.
  • You may have to alter the width and length of the hat depending on whether you're making it for an adult or child. Try measuring on someone's head if possible, instead of guesstimating.
  • If you get lost, count your stitches until you get back to a place you recognize.
  • The size of your crochet hook will determine how large your stitches are. If you use a small hook, your hat will be stiffer and warmer; a larger hook will result in a more floppy product. You'll develop preferences for certain sizes as you learn to crochet, but a size K hook (6.5mm) should be a good fit for a beginner.
  • With this style of hat, one 7 oz. skein should suffice. But if you should want to make more than one or a different style, load up on the yarn at the time of purchase. Sometimes styles get discontinued or the dye lot changes.
  • Clean the area beforehand. You want a nice, clear space to be able to concentrate. And if you have any overeager pets, be sure to shut the door.

Things You Will Need

  • One skein of yarn (4-ply or Medium for beginners)
  • Crochet hook (Size K for beginners)
  • Plastic tapestry needle
  • Scissors
  • Spare piece of yarn or thread to mark rows (optional)

Related Articles

Sources and Citations

  1. ↑ http://www.bevscountrycottage.com/size-chart.html
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