Easy Crochet Hat Pattern - Chunky Ribbed Beanie (2024)

Learn how to make a crochet hat for beginners with this easy Ribbed Beanie pattern. This crochet beanie is crafted with an easy-to-remember stitch pattern that resembles knit ribbing. The result is a textured, stretchy fabric that functions like knit but crochets like a dream! Made with just one skein of bulky-weight yarn, it’s a great project for beginners and advanced crocheters alike.

Whether you’re new to crochet, or just need an easy project to work on while you watch Netflix, you’ll love this easy crochet hat pattern.

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This Ribbed Beanie is an easy crochet project that’s super satisfying to make. I designed this simple unisex beanie pattern with basic stitches and simple techniques, so it’s very beginner-friendly. In my opinion, it’s the perfect crochet hat pattern for new crocheters.

The chunky yarn and great texture make for a hat that’s warm and cozy — perfect during the cold winter months! You can make it with less than one skein of bulky yarn, so it’s very affordable, too.

This basic beanie is constructed with an easy stitch pattern that works up quickly. I’ll show you how to make it a large range of sizes, from Newborn to Adult Large.

And don’t forget, beanies make great gifts for the whole family! I love making this style of crochet hat for everyone on my holiday gift-giving list.

You can find the ad-free, printable PDF pattern right here.

Related post: After this, why not crochet a simple scarf to go with your new beanie? Here is my favorite easy crochet scarf pattern – perfect for beginners and experienced crocheters alike.

Design Notes

You’ll love how quick and easy this crochet hat is to make. No complicated stitch pattern here! Just simple chains, single crochet, and half double crochet.

I designed this modern crochet beanie with soft bulky-weight yarn, so you know it will be warm and cozy. And, it’s made with a stretchy ribbing stitch pattern for a nice snug fit.

This modern crochet hat works up as a flat rectangular shape. To finish the hat, you’ll stitch together the long sides and gather the opening to form a closed tube.

So, if you can crochet back and forth in rows, you can make this simple crochet beanie pattern!

Crochet Ribbing Stitch

The body of the hat is made with a half-double crochet ribbing stitch. Making the hdc through the back loop only makes a stretchy crochet ribbing that’s perfect for hats.

I added a few single crochet stitches near the crown of the hat to give it a natural tapered look. This will come in handy when it’s time to gather the opening and finish the hat.

Pattern Variations

Sizes: The pattern is easy to adjust to fit different head sizes, including Adult, Teen, Child, and Toddler sizes. I’ll show you a hat size chart and a simple formula to follow for a perfect fit each and every time

Brim: I designed the hat to be 12″ tall, which is long enough to fold over a nice thick brim. If you don’t want a fold-over brim on your hat, I will show you how to adapt the pattern.

Style: I wouldn’t say this beanie is a very slouchy hat – it’s more of a classic beanie shape.

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Best Yarn for Chunky Beanies

I designed this pattern with one of my favorite yarns: Lion Brand Color Made Easy. It’s a nice chunky yarn that works up fast, so it’s a great choice for quick projects.

This particular yarn has a multi-plied construction for some really nice texture and stitch definition. It’s made from 100% acrylic, so it’s soft, affordable, and really easy to care for. Plus, this yarn comes in more than 20 gorgeous colors.

Note: This yarn has been discontinued. 🙁 Please feel free to substitute any other bulky-weight yarn you love. Keep in mind that you will need to make a gauge swatch, and possibly go up or down a hook size depending on your yarn choice.

Here are some other yarns you can use to make this project.

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Crochet Hat Size Chart

Wondering what size hat to make? To correctly size a crochet hat, you’ll want to make a hat that’s just a bit smaller than your head size. This way, when the hat stretches, it will fit your head perfectly.

To find your perfect size, use a tape measure to measure the widest part of your head. This will give you your head circumference measurement.

Then, subtract about 3″ from this to get the finished hat size measurement. Since this stitch pattern is so stretchy, I find that 3″ of negative ease gives me a nice snug fit.

An example

For example, my head measurement is 23″, which puts me between the Adult Medium and Adult Large sizes. After I subtract 3″ of negative ease, I know I want a make the circumference of the hat 20″.

To make my beanie, I crocheted as many rows as it took to reach a finished hat size of 20″, which turned out to be 36 rows plus 1 seaming row.

What is Ease in Crochet Patterns?

In crochet patterns, “Ease” refers to the difference in size between your project and your body. “Negative ease” means that your project will come out smaller than your body, but don’t worry – it will stretch!)

In general, crochet hats are designed with 2-3″ (5-7 cm) of negative ease, depending on stitch pattern and stretchiness.

Size Chart for Ribbed Beanies

In the chart below, you can find average measurements for head sizes, according to the Craft Yarn Council. I’ve also including a column for finished hat size, accounting for that same 3″ of negative ease.

AgeHead CircumferenceHat CircumferenceHat Length
Newborn12″-14″9″-13″5″
Baby14″-16″11″-13″5.75″
Toddler16″-18″13″-15″6.5″
Child18″-20″15″-17″7″
Teen20″-22″17″-19″7.5″
Adult Small21″-22″18″-19″8.5″
Adult Medium22″-23″19″-20″9″
Adult Large23″-24″20″-21″9.5″

To make a well-fitting hat, crochet as many chains as you need to reach the appropriate hat length measurement. Add 2.5″ to this measurement to add a folded brim.

And then, crochet as many rows as you need to reach the appropriate hat circumference measurement.

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Ribbed Beanie Crochet Pattern

Skill Level:Beginner/Easy

Finished Size:Newborn through Adult – See Chart (above) for more sizes

For the purposes of this pattern, I will be making an Adult Medium, or a hat length of 12″ and a circumference of 20″.

Gauge: 12 sts and 7.5 rows per 4″. Check your gauge, and factor this into your size calculation.

Materials

Yarn Weight:Bulky weight yarn, such as Lion Brand Color Made Easy (Category 5). I used about 200 yds for an Adult Medium.

Crochet Hook: K-10.5 (6.5mm) hook, or whichever size hook you need to meet gauge

You’ll also need:

  • yarn needle
  • stitch markers, if desired
  • ruler or tape measure, if desired

Stitches and Abbreviations

  • st/sts– stitch/stitches
  • ch– chain
  • sc– single crochet
  • hdchalf double crochet
  • BLO– back loops only

Special Stitches

There aren’t any special stitches in this hat pattern. But, you should know that almost all stitches will be made in the Back Loops Only. You will see this abbreviated in the pattern as BLO.

Pattern Notes

  • This pattern is writtenin US terminology.
  • The hat is worked flat, back and forth in rows.
  • Then, the finished flat piece is seamed to create a tube.
  • After that, one end is gathered to create the hat shape.

Pattern Instructions

Here’s how to crochet a winter hat for beginners.

First, I took my measurements. I want a brimmed hat with a finished length of 12″ and a circumference of 20″.

Row 1: Chain 36. Starting in the second chain from the hook, make 30 hdc. 5 sc. Turn. (35 sts)

Row 2: Chain 1. Starting in the same (first) stitch, 5 sc blo, 30 hdc blo. Turn. (35 sts)

Row 3: Chain 1. Starting in the same (first) stitch, 30 hdc blo, 4 sc blo, 1 sc. Turn. (35 sts)

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Repeat rows 2 and 3 until the crochet piece measures 19.5″ along the long edge – or about 1/2″ shorter than your desired finished hat measurement that you calculated earlier.

For my hat, I crocheted 36 rows total. The final seaming row will add the last 1/2″ of length that you need to meet your desired finished measurement.

Note: Take this measurement along the long edge of half-double crochet stitches, not the long edge with the single crochet stitches. A fabric measuring tape is useful here, since it’s more flexible than a ruler.

Finishing: Seam the sides.

Hooray, you’re almost finished! Now that it’s time to seam the hat together, you have a choice between 2 seaming techniques.

Option 1: The first option is to seam the sides of the hat together by working the last row of stitches through loops on both edges.

Basically, you’ll be making the last row of stitches and the seam at the same time. This option will leave a small raised line on the outside of the hat, but it’s mostly disguised by the ribbing texture.

Last row: First, fold the crocheted rectangle in half, right sides out. Make the last row of stitches as indicated in the pattern – but insert your hook through both the back loop of the working row and both loops of the first (starting) row.

For example, my last row was a “Row 3” row, so I crocheted: Chain 1. 30 hdc blo, 4 sc blo, and 1 sc through the loops on both sides to create the seam.

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Option 2: Or, if you prefer, you can seam the sides together with a simple slip stitch seam. A slip stitch seam will leave a small raised line that you can turn to the inside of the hat when you wear it

Before seaming, crochet as many rows as needed until the piece measures 20″, or the length that you calculated earlier. Then, turn the hat right sides together. Seam the sides with a row of slip stitches (sl st) made through both loops of stitches on both edges.

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Gather the top of the hat.

Pull yarn through the last loop and trim a long yarn tail. Use the yarn tail and a darning needle to make long running stitches along the top edge of the hat.

Pull the yarn tail to gather the top edge of the hat, and pull it closed. You can knot the yarn tail to secure it. Weave in the ends.

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How to Attach a Pom Pom to a Crochet Hat

I love to finish beanies with a big yarn pom pom!. They are easy to make and even easier to attach to crochet hats.

Pom-pom maker tools are relatively inexpensive and made really nice round pom-poms. I like this set because it comes with tools to make both small and large pom poms.

But, there are many ways to make pom-poms without a pom-pom maker. You can made them with your hand, a toilet paper roll, or a cardboard cut-out template.

And, if you’d like to use one of those cute faux fur pom-poms, here are some I’ve tried and recommend. They come with a small elastic loop that you can use to attach them to your hats.

More Crochet Hats and Beanies

For even more crochet hat patterns, check out this collection of my favorite 25 Free Crochet Hat and Beanie Patterns. All of the patterns on that list of beautifully designed, and suitable for both beginners and experienced crocheters.

Explore More Crochet Patterns

If you love to crochet as much as I do, I think you’ll love these other free crochet patterns.

  • Herringbone Crochet Cowl Pattern
  • Reusable Cotton Crochet Face Scrubbies
  • Twist-Front Crochet Ear Warmer Headband
  • Classic Crochet Baby Booties

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Chunky Ribbed Crochet Beanie

Yield: 1

Active Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated Cost: 5

How to crochet a classic ribbed beanie with bulky weight yarn. You'll love this quick and easy pattern that will teach you everything you need to know to crochet a modern winter hat.

Tools

Instructions

  1. Row 1: Chain 36. Starting in the second chain from the hook, make 30 hdc. 5 sc. Turn. (35 sts)
  2. Row 2: Chain 1. Starting in the same (first) stitch, 5 sc blo, 30 hdc blo. Turn. (35 sts)
  3. Row 3: Chain 1. Starting in the same (first) stitch, 30 hdc blo, 4 sc blo, 1 sc. Turn. (35 sts)
  4. Repeat rows 2 and 3 until the crochet piece measures 19.5″ along the long edge – or about 1/2″ shorter than your desired finished hat measurement you calculated earlier.
  5. To seam: Fold the crocheted rectangle in half, right sides out. Work the last row of stitches, following the pattern, through loops on both edges.
  6. Gather the top of the hat: Fasten off and trim, leaving a long tail. Using the yarn tail and needle, sew long running stitches along the top edge of the hat. Pull yarn to gather and close the top edge. Make a knot to secure it, and weave in the remaining ends.

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Easy Crochet Hat Pattern - Chunky Ribbed Beanie (14)

Sarah Stearns

Sarah Stearns has helped thousands of makers find their next craft project with free patterns and step-by-step tutorials on her blog, sarahmaker.com. Read more.

Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Scientific American, Good Housekeeping, Vox, Apartment Therapy, Lifehacker, and more.

Easy Crochet Hat Pattern - Chunky Ribbed Beanie (2024)

FAQs

Can you crochet a hat with chunky yarn? ›

Chunky Yarn to Crochet Quick Hats

Using super chunky yarn means you get a lot of bang for your buck when you consider how quickly you can finish these hats. It also means that they are extra warm AND super cute. Winning all over the place.

What stitch is best for a beanie? ›

This makes the garter stitch, which is what you'll use to make the body of the hat. Work the garter stitch until the ribbing and body of the beanie measure 6 34 inches (17 cm) long for a small or 7 inches (18 cm) long for a large.

How many stitches should I cast on for a chunky hat? ›

If you want to knit a hat that's 19 inches around, you will cast on 5 stitches per inch times 19 inches, for a total of 95 stitches.

How many stitches is a chunky beanie? ›

Chunky Hat Knitting Instructions:

Using the long-tail method, CO 44 sts on circular needles and join in the round, making sure not to twist stitches. Place a marker to mark the beginning of the round.

What size crochet hook do you use for a beanie? ›

The Mainstream Crochet Beanie uses worsted weight yarn. I used I Love This Yarn from Hobby Lobby for the crochet hats in the photos. You will also need an I 5.5mm crochet hook.

How many stitches should I cast on for a beanie? ›

Using 3.25mm needles & 8 ply yarn, cast on 120 stitches.

How many rows should a beanie have? ›

Loom Size / Hat Size
Hat RecipientAvg Head CircumferenceNumber of Rows
Toddler21 in / 53 cm25-30
Tweens & Teens22 in / 56 cm30-34
Women & Lean Men22 in / 56 cm32-40
Lrg Women & Men24 in / 61 cm38-45
4 more rows
17 Mar 2013

Is it better to knit or crochet a beanie? ›

Knitting is great for items that need delicate stitches such as soft sweaters or fluffy cowls. Crocheting is perfect for when bulkier stitches are needed – hats, scarves or dishtowels.

How long should a beanie by crochet? ›

A man's average hat size will be approximately 23 inches, while a woman's average hat size will be around 22 inches.

Which crochet ribbing is the Stretchiest? ›

The crochet slip stitch ribbing has so much memory which makes for such a stretchy band on your project. Another great thing about this rib is that it looks like knitted rib but is really crochet. In order to get the stretchy properties you will only be working in the back loop of the stitch.

How big should the crown of a crochet hat be? ›

In general, the circumference of a crochet hat should measure 1”-3”/2.5cm – 7.5cm less than the head circumference of the person who will be wearing the hat.

Is it better to have the hat too big or too small? ›

A tight fit isn't good. You should aim for a “snug” fit. That's the perfect fit. If your hat sits too tight, you'll feel like you have some sort of weight on your head and you may feel some tension.

What size needles for a chunky beanie? ›

Chunky yarn will almost always need large needle sizes. The smaller the needle size you use, the tighter the resulting knitted pattern will be. If you're knitting a bulky hat using chunky wool, you'll generally need needles around 10mm (US Size 15), though this can be as low as 8mm and go up to around 12mm on average.

How much bulky yarn does it take to make a beanie? ›

For both knit and crochet, the general rule of thumb is that a typical 100g skein of yarn will safely make you a hat.

How much chunky wool do I need for a hat? ›

How Much Yarn Do I Need for a Hat?
Yarn WeightAdult Hat
3 - Light200 to 300 yards
4 - Medium150 to 250 yards
5 - Bulky125 to 200 yards
6 - Super Bulky75 to 125 yards
3 more rows

What size crochet hook should I use for chunky yarn? ›

The thicker the yarn, the larger the hook size you will need to use with it. For example most DK yarns recommend a 4mm hook, whereas chunky yarns use a 6-7mm hook.

Does 2 strands of chunky equal super chunky? ›

2 strands sport = one strand worsted weight. 2 strands worsted = one strand chunky to super bulky weight.

How many stitches do you need to crochet a hat? ›

Typically, it takes 6-10 single crochet stitches, 8-11 half double crochet stitches, and 10-12 double crochet stitches for the first round. To increase, you'll be adding stitches to each round. In most cases you'll add the SAME number of stitches in the first round to each additional round.

Can a beginner crochet a hat? ›

If you're new to crocheting, making a whole hat may seem intimidating. However, it is easier than it might seem. With some simple directions and a bit of time, you can crochet a lovely, unique hat.

Is it better to use a crochet hook too big or too small? ›

Smaller hooks make finer and tighter crochet, while larger hooks produce a bulkier, more open weave. Patterns and yarn labels always suggest what size hook to use, but you may need to switch to a different size to achieve the correct gauge.

How many inches around should a beanie be? ›

You'll need approximately 2 inches of negative ease for your hat's circumference; that means the circumference of the actual hat should be approximately 2 inches smaller than the circumference of your head. These yardages were estimated using a gauge of 5 sts per inch and a stockinette stitch.

What type of yarn is best for beanies? ›

There are many great yarn options for crochet beanies. I prefer a superwash wool or wool blend for my beanies, but you can also use acrylic or 100% wool with excellent results. Can you use acrylic yarn for hats? Acrylic is an excellent choice for hats as it is a durable fiber that holds up to repeated washings.

Do you count the first stitch when casting on? ›

Most patterns do not count the cast on as the first row. They tell you to cast on a number of stitches and then start row 1 usually designating it as right or wrong side row, unless you are knitting in the round, then just row 1. So, the cast on does not count as a row.

How tight should a beanie fit? ›

Stretch or shrink a beanie for the perfect fit. A beanie that is too small can look like a swimmer's cap while a beanie that is too big can look childish. Ideally, you want a beanie to fit comfortably around your head and ears for maximum warmth and protection in cold weather.

How many stitches is a 4 ply beanie? ›

Using 4 ply wool (that is 100% wool) and size 10 needles cast on 65 stitches and knit garter stitch 20 rows.

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