Updated: by Jess Coppom ·
This handpicked collection of free crochet hat patterns includes everything from classic beanies and cozy toboggans to comfy slouch hats.
Keep reading for tips on choosing the best yarn for a winter hat and how to personalize it with the perfect pom pom or leather label.
Jump to:
- Winter Hat and Beanie Styles
- How To Measure For Crochet Beanies
- Free Crochet Hat Patterns
- Best Yarn for Hats
- Hooks and Notions
- Give Your Beanie a Professional Finish
- FAQs About Toboggans, Beanies, and Winter Hats
- Invitation to our Facebook group
Why we can't stop crocheting hats:
- Great Gifts: Beanies are functional, cute, and easy to size
- Fast Projects: Many simple hat patterns can be finished in 2 hours or less
- Unlimited Options: You'll never run out of unique caps to crochet
Winter Hat and Beanie Styles
Crochet hat instructions take several approaches to constructing a beanie. Here are the basic formulas you’ll come across and the benefits of each.
Flat Or In The Round?
Like with knit hats, you can crochet a hat in the round or as a flat shape that is later seamed into a closed tube.
Some of the easiest crochet hat patterns for beginners are made from a simple flat rectangle. If you are learning how to crochet, this approach is ideal as it doesn’t involve increasing or decreasing.
What to consider:
Crocheting a hat in the round is suitable if you want to avoid seaming or are looking for a more fitted hat.
Making a beanie in the round does require some counting, but it also can result in a more cone-shaped hat, which some people prefer.
Top Down Or Bottom Up?
Crochet hats worked in the round are often made from the top down. Crocheting from the top is ideal for making last-minute fit adjustments and customizing the height of your beanie or slouch hat.
The bottom-up method can be worked in the round or flat. The benefit of this technique is that it’s easy to check that the brim circumference fits well early in the pattern. Working from the bottom up is also ideal for cabled hat patterns because the stitches face up.
How To Measure For Crochet Beanies
Here are some handy guidelines for sizing your hat correctly. The circumference of your crochet beanie should be about 1–2 inches smaller than your head circumference.
This negative ease of 1–2 inches will keep your hat securely on your head.
Crochet Hat Size Chart
| Age | Head Circumference | Recommended Hat Circumference |
|---|---|---|
| Preemie | 9–12 in (23–31 cm) | 7–10 in (18–25 cm) |
| Baby | 14–16 in (36–41 cm) | 12–14 in (31–36 cm) |
| Toddler | 16–18 in (41–46 cm) | 14–16 in (36–41 cm) |
| Child | 18–20 in (46–51 cm) | 16–18 in (41–46 cm) |
| Teen | 20–22 in (51–56 cm) | 18–20 in (46–51 cm) |
| Small Adult | 21–23 in (53–59 cm) | 19–21 in (48–53 cm) |
| Larger Adult | 22–24 in (56–61 cm) | 20–22 in (51–56 cm) |
Free Hat Patterns for Summertime
Don't neglect your noggin' once the snow melts. If you enjoy easy crochet hats for all seasons, you'll love these styles.
- Easy Crochet Bucket Hat Free Pattern | Kids + Adult Sizes
- 23 Free Crochet Sun Hat Patterns for Summer
- Crochet Granny Square Bucket Hat Free Pattern
- Fedora Crochet Sun Hat - Free Pattern
More free crochet sun hat patterns →
Free Crochet Hat Patterns
We’ve collected our favorite free crochet hat and beanie patterns for beginners and experienced crocheters. You’ll find ribbed slouch hats, chunky beanies, and modern colorwork designs to keep your head cozy until next summer.
Quick And Simple Hat Patterns For Beginners
These easy crochet hat patterns are perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a fast crochet project.
makeanddocrew.com
1.5 Hour Easy Hat For Beginners
This basic beanie crochet pattern has a classic knit look and is super easy to make. If you can double-crochet a rectangle, you can make this! Follow along with the free pattern and video tutorial instructions to learn how to crochet a hat step-by-step.
Get the beginner chunky beanie pattern
Related: The Easiest Kids Crochet Hat Pattern
www.lakesideloops.com
Rylee Ribbed Stocking Hat
Made with simple stitches to create a stylish silhouette, this crochet beanie pattern is easy enough for confident beginners. The pattern includes seven sizes, from newborn to adult, and a step-by-step tutorial video. Even the largest hat sizes can be completed with a single skein of worsted weight yarn.
makeanddocrew.com
Simple Hat for Babies, Children, and Adults
This easy hat pattern can be finished in an hour or two using only double crochet stitches and bulky weight yarn. There is also a helpful video tutorial for beginner crocheters. Sizing for babies, kids, ladies, and men.
Get the Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Beret Slouch Hat
Follow this easy puff stitch crochet beret pattern to create the classic French look, or extend the length to create a slouchier hat if you prefer. Instructions are included for both. This lightweight cap can be finished in a single eventing and worn the next day.
Get the Beret Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Knit-Look Double Brim Hat
Clear instructions and a double brim? This beanie pattern has it all! This lovely unisex hat uses a variation of single crochet called the waistcoat stitch to capture the look of knit ribbing and a classic outdoorsy feel.
Get the Pattern
Related: How to Crochet the Knit Stitch
Best Beanie Patterns For Intermediate Crocheters
Aimed at makers with more experience, these free patterns use unique crochet stitches and more advanced techniques to create truly beautiful headwear.
www.lakesideloops.com
Remington Diamond Cable Hat
This hat pattern puts a lovely twist on the classic beanie with a creative honeycomb design and ribbed brim. Add a faux fur or yarn pom pom to give this pretty beanie the perfect finish.
www.5littlemonsters.com
Bead Stitch Crochet Hat
Alternating rounds of bead stitch and half double crochet stitch are used in this intricate hat pattern. The slouchy style is a fresh take on the classic ribbed beanie.
tlycblog.com
Colorful Mesa Hat
Practice Tunisian crochet with the Mesa Hat pattern and video tutorial. The color-changing yarn creates a stunning, vibrant design without any additional ends to weave in. There’s also a free scarf pattern to match if you’d like a coordinating set.
Related: 20 Beautiful Tunisian Crochet Stitches to Try
craftingeachday.com
Breann Lightweight Hat
Designed for a crochet cancer challenge, this free crochet hat pattern uses DK weight yarn and a variation on the shell stitch to make a lightweight, airy hat. The pattern includes three child and two adult sizes.
Trendy and Cool Hats
Looking for a super stylish pattern? Here are some of the cutest hats that will make you the envy of the ski slopes.
hayhaycrochet.com
Checkered Beanie
A graphic checkered pattern levels up this otherwise basic crochet hat. You’ll use simple half-double crochet stitches to practice the frequent color changes.
Related: How to Keep Yarn from Tangling When Crocheting with Multiple Colors
www.twoofwands.com
Annie Cloche Bucket Hat
Jump on the bucket hat trend with this bowler-meets-cloche hat. This pattern plays on this iconic hat shape by adding a modern twist. You won’t regret spending a couple of hours making this soft and fluffy hat with faux fur yarn.
Related: Free Granny Square Bucket Hat Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Plaid Hat for Adults and Kids
Check out this plaid hat pattern for cozy autumnal vibes. With sizes for women, men, and children, it’s a great pattern for the whole family. Easily substitute three varied shades of yarn to crochet plaid in any color you can imagine.
Get the Pattern
Our Latest Crochet Inspiration:
Here are a few more free crochet patterns and tutorials that are hot off the presses.
- How to Crochet a Flower Granny Square - Daisy Tutorial
- 40+ Free Crochet Blanket + Afghan Patterns | Captivating Designs
- Crochet Tee Made From Two Rectangles - Free Pattern + Video
- How to Weave in Crochet Ends: My No-Fail, Secure Method
Classic Crochet Beanies That Look Knit
These modern beanies are shining examples of how crochet can look like knitting.
www.allaboutami.com
Rosewood Classic Beanie For Adults
This easy pattern can be a good base to personalize. Add accessories, like a pom pom, a classy suede tag, or a statement bow. The crochet hat tutorial with pictures will guide you through the project step-by-step.
daisyfarmcrafts.com
Tweed Pom Pom Hat
With its clear instructions, you’ll have this easy chunky hat pattern finished in no time! Choose a flecked yarn for an extra classic tweed look.
Related: Add a DIY Pom Pom to Any Hat
makeanddocrew.com
Messy Bun Beanie with Faux Cables
This ponytail hat offers a fresh take on the classic cable variety by featuring a hole for your messy bun. The complicated-looking cables are made with only single crochet and chain stitches, making this a surprisingly easy hat to crochet. Video tutorial included.
Get the Pattern
Extra Cozy Winter Hat Patterns
Here are some of the coziest beanie hats that will keep you toasty even in the deepest winter. Check out even more chunky crochet hat patterns here.
www.whistleandivy.com
Snow Bunny Crochet Hat
Feel lovely and warm when wearing this stunning DIY crochet hat. This piece has a beautiful texture with a thick brim. It looks great with a faux fur pom pom or button accessory, or try it with a large suede bow.
nedandmimi.com
Chunky Crochet Hat In Trinity Stitch
Here’s an opportunity to use up super bulky or chunky yarn. This unisex pattern uses simple stitches to create a unique striped effect. Accessorize with a pom pom or leave it plain for a classic look.
www.mjsoffthehookdesigns.com
Heavenly Herringbone Hat
This twist on the classic cable knit hat uses the herringbone single crochet stitch. The pattern includes baby through adult sizes and a video tutorial. Top off your chunky hat with a faux fur pom pom.
kirstenhollowaydesigns.com
La Vie en Rose Earflap Hat
This cute ski hat pattern shows you how to make a toboggan with toasty earflaps that is perfect for being out in the snow. A soft but sturdy acrylic yarn is recommended. Six versatile sizes are included.
Stunning Colorwork Hats
Make a statement with these colorful hat patterns.
www.lionbrand.com
Metropolitan Ave. Hat
This colorful hat pattern from Lion Brand is made with a classic ribbed brim and is ideal for intermediate crocheters. The self-striping bulky yarn creates a statement without adding extra ends to weave in.
www.whistleandivy.com
Crochet Chevron Hat
This cool zig-zag pattern involves simple color work and single crochet stitches. The vibrant chevron design offers lots of room for personalization in color choice.
makeanddocrew.com
Chunky Cable Hat
Learn how to master cables with the Pineapple Crown chunky beanie pattern. The photos and video tutorials make this a straightforward project with huge color results.
Get the Pattern
www.mjsoffthehookdesigns.com
Mosaic Crochet Hat For Beginners
With its beautiful design, this mosaic crochet hat pattern is eye-catching and easier than it looks. While this pattern is crocheted in the round, it’s made of all single and double crochet stitches, so it’s perfect for your first mosaic crochet project. Video tutorial included.
www.hanjancrochet.com
Widcombe C2C Crochet Hat Pattern
This modern pattern uses the corner-to-corner crochet technique to create a lovely geometric design. With its handy video tutorial, even a beginner C2C crocheter can master this fun approach to colorwork. This is an excellent project to use up worsted-weight scrap yarn.
Related: How to Corner to Corner Crochet for Beginners
nedandmimi.com
Sedona Mosaic Crochet Hat
Start your mosaic crochet journey with this easy pattern and let the color-changing yarn do most of the work. The only requirement is single and double crochet stitches. This gorgeous design works well for all genders, and the pattern offers four sizes, from baby to adult. You’ll work in the round from the bottom up.
Novelty Hat Patterns
These cute crochet hat patterns make memorable handmade gift ideas for whimsical loved ones.
makeanddocrew.com
Rectangle Beanie with Earflaps
Because this project is built from simple shapes, it’s ideal for those ready to move beyond the easiest crochet hats. While the double pom poms make for an adorable look on babies, the earflap hat includes adult sizes too.
Get the Pattern
makeanddocrew.com
Elf Hat with Ears
Get in the festive spirit with this novelty elf hat pattern–perfect for gifting, Christmas parties, or a family photo prop. We promise you’ll be the talk of any holiday gathering. Make one for your whole family of elves with infant, toddler, child, and adult sizes!
Get the Pattern
Related: 30+ Free Crochet Patterns for Christmas
blackstone-designs.com
Kitty Cat Hat For Beginners
Need a last-minute Halloween costume? A gift for a cat lover? This easy cat beanie is quick to whip with simple construction and worsted-weight yarn. Child and adult versions available.
Best Yarn for Hats
There are many yarns to choose from for your crochet hat project.
- Consider using wool for a warmer beanie with water-repellent properties.
- If animal products are unsuitable (or just too itchy!) go with acrylic, which is typically affordable and machine washable.
- Cotton yarn can be good for more structured hats with brims, like crochet bucket hats and sun hats.
It’s important to check the yarn weight (thickness) suggested in the pattern and choose the same thickness yarn. This will help ensure your crochet beanie turns out the size you expect.
My Favorites
In my experience, some of the best yarns for hats include:
| Lion Brand Yarn | Weight | What I Love |
|---|---|---|
| Jeans | Worsted / #4 | super soft, washable acrylic |
| Color Theory | Worsted / #4 | modern colors that are easy to pair |
| Hue + Me | Bulky / #5 | versatile yarn in gorgeous colors |
| Wool-Ease Thick & Quick | Super Bulky / #6 | classic chunky look and fast progress |
Hooks and Notions
Having the right tools will make your project more enjoyable and successful. Most winter hat patterns require:
- Crochet hook
- Tapestry needle (also known as a yarn needle) for seaming and weaving in ends
- Tape measure for measuring head circumference
- Scissors
You may also want to use:
- Stitch markers - to mark increases or decreases and hold seams together while joining
- Pom pom maker or faux fur pom pom - alternatively, make a pom pom by hand
Pro Tip: The pattern will recommend a certain hook size, but crocheters may need to swap their hook to achieve the right gauge and ensure their hat turns out the expected size. Make a gauge swatch to figure out what crochet hook size you need.
Give Your Beanie a Professional Finish
While many of the crochet hat patterns on this list are eye-catching on their own, the right finishing touch can make your project truly custom.
Here are some of our favorite simple ways to add personalization to beanies. These can make a simple project a memorable and cherished gift.
Choose the Right Pom Pom
Deciding the best way to top your finished hat can be one of the best parts.
Faux Fur
We love faux fur pom poms because they add texture and personality to winter hats. They’re easy to purchase online or at local craft stores. You can even DIY your own fur pom poms.
Yarn Poms
Yarn pom poms are another great accessory and an excellent opportunity to use up scrap yarn. The fastest way to make uniform yarn pom poms is with a pom pom maker . It’s also possible to make pom poms using only a piece of cardboard.
Pro Tip: Do your yarn pom poms come apart over time? Place small dots of hot glue in the center of the pom pom to help secure the strands of yarn in place.
Adding Labels and Buttons
Suede or leather labels and pretty buttons can dress up a handmade hat. Here are a few personalized labels I love for crochet beanies.
If you'd like to add a DIY leather tag, try cutting a small rectangle from a thrifted jacket or wallet, like I did in this crochet mittens pattern.
FAQs About Toboggans, Beanies, and Winter Hats
What types of crochet hat patterns are best for beginners?
The best beginner hat patterns are worked flat and use one or two basic crochet stitches. Avoid color changing when learning how to make a crocheted hat. If you struggle with sizing and meeting the pattern gauge, opt for stretchy beanies and hats with ribbed brims.
How are crochet hats seamed together?
Some beanie patterns are crocheted in the round, eliminating the need for seaming. Crochet hat patterns that are worked flat are seamed using a tapestry needle and the whip or mattress stitch. Beanies can also be joined using single crochet or slip stitches.
Related Patterns
If you love cozy, wearable fast crochet patterns, we've got plenty more I think you'll love.
- How to Crochet a Chunky Scarf - Free Pattern for Beginners
- 3 Hour Chunky Crochet Mittens - Free Pattern + Tutorial
- Easiest Crochet Baby Hat - Free 1 Hour Pattern
- "Aspen Socialite" Free Crochet Headband Pattern (Baby-Adult Sizes!)
- Free Knit-Look Crochet Mitten Pattern For Adults
- Knit-Look Twist Crochet Headband - Free Pattern
More free crochet patterns for winter →
Learn a New Skill
When you're ready to master a new skill, check out our detailed guides that include everything you need to know to level up your crochet game.
- How to Corner to Corner (C2C) Crochet for Beginners - with video tutorials to get you started
- How to Crochet a Beginner Hat - make an entire beanie in 1.5 hours!
- How to Crochet Amigurumi for Beginners - the ultimate guide to making your own toys and plushies
- How to Tunisian Crochet - learn with this video and a standard hook
That was so fun! Now what?
- Pin this post: Save this to your Pinterest crochet board to easily find it again.
- Share your work on Instagram or Facebook: Tag @MakeAndDoCrew and use #MakeAndDoCrew to show us your stitchin'!
- Leave a comment: Say hello and share your feedback below.
Invitation to our Facebook group
Come discuss the best crochet hat patterns and lots of other projects and techniques in our Make & Do Crew Facebook group. Here thousands of helpful crocheters answer each other's questions and share their stitches. Join us!
More Free Crochet Beanie + Headband Patterns
- 3 HourFree Crochet Newsboy Hat Pattern
- Free Crochet Bunny Hat Pattern (Newborn, Baby, Toddler, Child)
- 1 Hour Easy Child's Crochet Hat Pattern With Toddler Sizes
- Easy Classic Santa Hat Crochet Pattern
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