About This Free Crochet Hat Pattern
This pattern creates a simple ribbed crochet hat worked from the bottom up. The ribbing is worked flat, folded and joined, then the body is worked in the round with back-loop-only stitches for a stretchy textured brim. It includes instructions for making a small pom-pom to attach to the top.
Ideal for using worsted weight yarn in your favorite colors, and sized to coordinate with the Snowman Friends pattern. Clear round-by-round directions make following the shaping easy.
Why You'll Love This Free Crochet Hat Pattern
I absolutely love this pattern because it is quick to make and uses very simple stitches that yield a polished, professional-looking hat. I enjoy how the ribbing works up flat and transforms into a stretchy brim when joined — it is both functional and pretty. Making a small pom-pom to finish the top always adds a playful touch that I find irresistible. This pattern is perfect for using leftover worsted yarn, and I love gifting finished hats to friends and family.
Switch Things Up
I love changing up the color to create different looks; try a two-tone brim and body by switching colors when you join the ribbing.
I often use bulky yarn and a larger hook to make an oversized, squishy beanie—just adjust the number of rounds for the crown if needed.
I sometimes swap the pom-pom for a crocheted flower or button for a more subtle finish that is toddler-friendly.
I recommend trying variegated or speckled worsted yarn to add visual interest without extra colorwork effort.
I have made mini versions using fingering yarn and a smaller hook to create doll hats and keychain accessories.
I like to embroider a small initial on the brim for personalization—use contrasting yarn and a yarn needle to stitch letters neatly.
I sometimes fold the brim twice for a thicker cuff; to do this, make your ribbing longer and fold it up once more before attaching the crown.
I suggest adding a soft lining for extra warmth—cut a small circle of fleece and hand stitch it into the hat’s interior for a cozy feel.
I occasionally change the decrease rounds to shape a more rounded crown; experiment with decreasing intervals to get a slightly different silhouette.
I also enjoy making matching sets by crocheting a small scarf or mittens using the same BLO ribbing technique for cohesion.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
✗ Skipping the turning chain note can throw off your row counts; remember that the turning chain does not count as a stitch and adjust your placement accordingly.
✗ Working the ribbing in the round instead of flat will give the wrong texture; follow the instructions to work the ribbing flat, fold and slip stitch the edges together before continuing in the round.
✗ Not working into the back loop only when instructed will flatten the ribbed texture; be sure to insert your hook into the BLO for the rounds specified to maintain stretch.
✗ Fastening off too early will make joining the ribbing difficult; do not fasten off after row 30 — fold and slip stitch row 1 to row 30 together before continuing.
✗ Pulling the closing tail too tight when cinching the crown can distort the top; gently pull and adjust stuffing or stitches as you close for a neat finish.