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Leopard Hat Pattern

Leopard Hat Pattern
4.6★ Rating
5-7 Hours Time Needed
1.5K Made This
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Intermediate Level

Ideal for those with basic crochet experience, featuring slightly more advanced stitches and techniques to expand your skills.

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Weekend Treat

Takes 5-7 hours, making it an enjoyable project to finish over a couple of days.

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Snug Essential

Everyday comfort with practical charm, designed for both functionality and style through changing seasons.

About This Leopard Hat Pattern

This pattern creates a cosy leopard-themed earflap hat worked in rounds for the crown with shaped earflaps, separate facings and a decorative nose and spots. It includes child and adult sizing and step-by-step instructions for shaping and finishing. Special features include optional facings, an edging that joins earflaps neatly, and multiple spot sizes for a playful look.

Leopard Hat Pattern crochet pattern - detailed view of completed project

Worked mainly in double crochet with increases and decreases, the hat uses chunky and DK yarns for texture and structure. Buttons are added for eyes and the spots are crocheted separately and stitched on for depth.

Why You'll Love This Leopard Hat Pattern

I absolutely love this pattern because it combines bold, wearable style with simple shaping techniques that give a really professional finish. I enjoy how flexible it is—you can change yarns, colours and the size and placement of the spots to create very different looks. Making the earflaps and facings gives the hat a snug, finished edge that stands up to cold weather. The pattern is satisfying to make as the crown grows quickly in rounds, and I always smile when I sew the spots on and see the leopard come to life.

Leopard Hat Pattern step 1 - construction progress Leopard Hat Pattern step 2 - assembly progress Leopard Hat Pattern step 3 - details and accessories Leopard Hat Pattern step 4 - final assembly and finishing

Switch Things Up

I love how easy it is to customise this hat by changing colours; I often swap the main colour for a deep navy or forest green to make a subtler leopard.

I like to experiment with yarn weight and hook size to create different scales: using a bulkier yarn with a larger hook gives a chunky cosy hat, while a DK yarn makes a neater, less bulky version.

I sometimes replace the button eyes with safety eyes or embroidered eyes for a softer finish, depending on who the hat is for.

For a more realistic leopard look I stitch smaller and more numerous spots across the crown; for a stylised look I group large spots toward one side.

Try adding a fleece lining for extra warmth and comfort; I cut a fleece oval pattern from the finished hat to make a snug interior lining.

I also enjoy making matching accessories like mittens or a scarf using the same spot motif to create a coordinated set.

If you want a playful twist, add contrasting-colour edging or a striped earflap interior using simple rows of dc in different colours.

I often change the ear shape: rounder ears for a cub-like hat or pointed ears for a fantasy animal—just alter the ear rounds slightly.

To make a mini keychain hat, I reduce the yarn size and hook and make a tiny version of the crown and one earflap, then stuff lightly and hang from a loop.

I recommend swapping the pom-pom ties for braided cords or tassels for different styles; braid three strands or make chunky twisted cords depending on the look you want.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

✗ Skipping the centre ring start or not pulling the loop tight can leave a hole at the crown; always tighten the initial ring and slide the stitches closed before continuing. ✗ Not checking tension against the stated gauge will change the finished size unexpectedly; make a small swatch and adjust hook size to match the tension given in the pattern. ✗ Failing to work the exact number of increases in each round leads to incorrect stitch counts and shaping; count stitches at the end of each round to catch mistakes early. ✗ Attaching earflaps or ear pieces without pinning first can result in uneven placement; pin or baste pieces in position and check symmetry before sewing permanently. ✗ Changing yarns mid-pattern without noting yarn weights and meters can alter drape and size; compare yarn yardage and weight to the materials suggested and substitute carefully.

Leopard Hat Pattern

Make a playful leopard earflap hat that is warm, stylish and full of character. This pattern guides you through shaping the crown, working earflaps, adding a nose and leopard spots, and finishing with neat facings and edging. Suitable for both child and adult sizes, you can personalise colours and spot placement to make a unique hat you will love to wear.

Intermediate 5-7 Hours

Materials Needed for Leopard Hat Pattern

— Main Fabric

  • 01
    King Cole Merino Blend Chunky, 100% superwash wool (74yd/67m per 50g ball) - 3[4] x 50g balls in 928 Old Gold (A)
  • 02
    King Cole Merino Blend DK, 100% superwash wool (123yd/112m per 50g ball) - 1[1] x 50g ball in 048 Black (B)
  • 03
    King Cole Baby Alpaca DK, 100% pure baby alpaca (110yd/100m per 50g ball) - 1[1] x 50g ball in 500 Camel (C)
  • 04
    Small amount of toy stuffing for ears (if lightly stuffing)
  • 05
    Thin card to make pompoms (if making pom-pom ties)

— Tools Required

  • 01
    Crochet hook 3mm (UK11:US:)
  • 02
    Crochet hook 5mm (UK6:USH/8)
  • 03
    Crochet hook 6mm (UK4:USJ/10)
  • 04
    2 x brown 3/4[7/8] in (2[2.25] cm) diameter buttons
  • 05
    2 x black 1/2[5/8] in (1.25[1.5] cm) diameter buttons
  • 06
    Darning needle
  • 07
    Sewing needle
  • 08
    Black sewing thread
  • 09
    Scissors
  • 10
    Stitch markers (recommended)
  • 11
    Small amount of toy stuffing
  • 12
    Thin card to make pompoms

Progress Tracker

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— Method :

Info :

The main part of the hat is crocheted in rounds, starting from the top and increasing the stitches to shape the crown. The earflaps are crocheted in rows and decreased to form the triangular shape. The leopard's ears are worked in rounds. They are lightly stuffed and attached to the hat along with a crocheted nose and leopard spots. The number of spots can be increased to create a denser pattern, if preferred. Buttons are stitched on for eyes.

— Main piece :

Start :

Starting at the top of the hat, with 6mm hook and A, make 4 ch and sl st to first ch to form a ring.

Round 1 :

1 ch (does not count as a st), work 6 dc into ring, sl st into first dc (6 sts).

Round 2 (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc) 6 times, sl st into first dc (12 sts).

Round 3 (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc, 1 dc) 6 times, sl st into first dc (18 sts).

Round 4 (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc, 2 dc) 6 times, sl st into first dc (24 sts).

Round 5 (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc, 3 dc) 6 times, sl st into first dc (30 sts).

Round 6 (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc, 4 dc) 6 times, sl st into first dc (36 sts).

Round 7 (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc, 5 dc) 6 times, sl st into first dc (42 sts).

Round 8 (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc, 6 dc) 6 times, sl st into first dc (48 sts).

Round 9 (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc, 7 dc) 6 times, sl st into first dc (54 sts).

Round 10 (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc, 8 dc) 6 times, sl st into first dc (60 sts).

Round 11 (adult size only) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc, 9 dc) 6 times, sl st into first dc (66 sts).

Next (both sizes) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), work 1 dc in each dc, sl st into first dc. Rep last round 16 [18] times more.

— Earflaps and edging :

Info :

Main piece Earflaps and edging Child size

First earflap (start) :

Next: Starting at the centre back, 1 ch (does not count as a st), work 1 dc in next 5[6] dc.

First earflap :

The following is worked in rows:

Adult size only Row 1 (RS) :

Work 1 dc in next 15 dc, turn.

Adult size only Row 2 (WS) (dec) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), dc2dec, 1 dc in next 11 dc, dc2dec, turn, 1 ch (does not count as a st).

Both sizes Next :

Work 1 dc in next 13 dc, turn.

Both sizes Next (dec) :

*1 ch (does not count as a st), dc2dec, 1 dc in next 9 dc, dc2dec, turn (11 sts).

Both sizes Next :

1 ch (does not count as a st), work 1 dc in each dc, turn.

Both sizes Next (dec) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), dc2dec, 1 dc in next 7 dc, dc2dec, turn (9 sts).

Both sizes Next :

1 ch (does not count as a st), work 1 dc in each dc, turn.

Both sizes Next (dec) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), dc2dec, 1 dc in next 5 dc, dc2dec, turn (7 sts).

Both sizes Next :

1 ch (does not count as a st), work 1 dc in each dc, turn.

Both sizes Next (dec) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), dc2dec, 1 dc in next 3 dc, dc2dec, turn (5 sts).

Both sizes Next :

1 ch (does not count as a st), work 1 dc in each dc, turn.

Both sizes Next (dec) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), dc2dec, 1 dc in next 1 dc, dc2dec, turn (3 sts).

Both sizes Final :

Fasten off.

Second earflap (start) :

Next: With right side facing, rejoin A to the front of the hat. Work 1 dc in each of the 24 dc across the front of the hat.

Second earflap :

The following is worked in rows:

Adult size only Row 1 (RS) :

Work 1 dc in next 15 dc, turn.

Adult size only Row 2 (WS) (dec) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), dc2dec, 1 dc in next 11 dc, dc2dec, turn, 1 ch (does not count as a st).

Both sizes Next :

Work 1 dc in next 13 dc, turn.

Both sizes Next :

Work from * to * of first earflap.

Both sizes Final :

Fasten off.

— Earflap facings (make 2) :

Info :

Omit if you plan to add a crocheted lining.

Both sizes (facing start) :

Using 6mm hook and A, make 14[16] ch.

Row 1 (RS) :

Work 1 dc in second ch from hook, 1 dc into the next 12[14] ch, turn (13[15] sts).

Adult size only Row 2 (dec) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), dc2dec, 1 dc in next 11 dc, dc2dec, turn (13 sts).

Row 3 :

1 ch (does not count as a st), work 1 dc in each dc, turn.

Both sizes Next :

Work from * to * of the first earflap in the main piece pattern. Fasten off.

Edging :

Using 5mm hook and A, with right side of work facing and starting at row 1 of the earflap facing, work 1 dc into each stitch down the edge of the next 10[12] rows, work dc2inc, 1 dc, dc2inc in the next 3 dc along the lower edge of the earflap facing, work 1 dc into each stitch at the edge of the next 10[12] rows up the other side of the earflap facing (25[29] sts). Fasten off, leaving a long length of yarn at the end.

— Ears (make 2) :

Both sizes (start) :

Starting at the top of the ear, with 6mm hook and A, make 4 ch and sl st to first ch to form a ring.

Round 1 :

1 ch (does not count as a st), work 5 dc into ring, sl st into first dc (5 sts).

Round 2 (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc) 5 times, sl st into first dc (10 sts).

Round 3 (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc, 1 dc) 5 times, sl st into first dc (15 sts).

Round 4 (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc, 2 dc) 5 times, sl st into first dc (20 sts).

Adult size only Next (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc, 4 dc) 4 times, sl st into first dc (24 sts).

Both sizes Next :

1 ch (does not count as a st), work 1 dc in each dc, sl st into first dc. Rep last round 4[6] more times.

Both sizes Final :

Fasten off, leaving a long length of yarn at the end.

— Nose :

Both sizes (start) :

With 3mm hook and B, make 4 ch and sl st to first ch to form a ring.

Next :

1 ch (does not count as a st), work 6 dc into ring, sl st into first dc (6 sts).

Child size only Next round :

1 ch (does not count as a st), work 1 dc in each dc, sl st to first dc.

Child size Next round (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc) 6 times, sl st into first dc (12 sts).

Child size Next round (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc) 12 times, sl st into first dc (24 sts).

Adult size only Next (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc) 6 times, sl st into first dc (12 sts).

Adult size Next round :

1 ch (does not count as a st), work 1 dc in each dc, sl st to first dc.

Adult size Next round :

Rep last round.

Adult size Next round (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc) 12 times, sl st into first dc (24 sts).

Adult size Next round :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc, 2 dc) 8 times, sl st into first dc (32 sts).

Both sizes Final :

Fasten off, leaving a long length of yarn at the end.

— Spots :

Tiny (make 10[10]) :

With 3mm hook and C, make 4 ch and sl st to first ch to form a ring.

Tiny Round 1 :

1 ch (does not count as a st), work 5 dc into ring, sl st into first dc (5 sts).

Tiny Round 2 (inc) :

With B, make 1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc) 5 times (10 sts). Fasten off, leaving a long length of B at the end.

Small (make 10[6]) :

With 3mm hook and C, make 4 ch and sl st to first ch to form a ring.

Small Row 1 :

1 ch (does not count as a st), work 6 dc into ring, turn (6 sts).

Small Row 2 (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc) 3 times, join and continue in yarn B, (dc2inc) 3 times, turn (12 sts).

Small Row 3 (inc) :

With B, 1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc, 1 dc) 6 times (18 sts). Fasten off, leaving a long length of B at the end.

Medium (make 6[6]) :

With 3mm hook and C, make 4 ch and sl st to first ch to form a ring.

Medium Round 1 :

1 ch (does not count as a st), work 5 dc into ring, sl st into first dc (5 sts).

Medium Round 2 (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc) 5 times (10 sts).

Medium Round 3 (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc, 1 dc) twice, join and continue in yarn B, (dc2inc, 1 dc) 3 times, sl st into first dc (15 sts).

Medium Round 4 (inc) :

With B, 1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc, 2 dc) 4 times, sl st to next dc. Fasten off, leaving a long length of B at the end.

Large (make 0[6]) :

With 3mm hook and C, make 4 ch and sl st to first ch to form a ring.

Large Round 1 :

1 ch (does not count as a st), work 6 dc into ring, sl st into first dc (6 sts).

Large Round 2 (inc) :

1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc) 6 times, sl st into first dc (12 sts). Join in yarn B.

Large Round 3 (inc) :

With B, 1 ch (does not count as a st), (dc2inc, 1 dc) 6 times, sl st into first dc (18 sts).

Large Next :

With B, miss first dc, 1 dc in next 2 dc, (dc2inc, 2 dc) 3 times, sl st to next dc. Fasten off, leaving a long length of B at the end.

Assembly Instructions

  • Lightly stuff the ears if desired and sew them to the top sides of the hat, spacing them evenly and checking symmetry before securing.
  • Stitch the nose to the centre front of the hat, slightly above the edging, using the long tail left to secure and weave in the end.
  • Position the spots across the crown and earflaps as shown in the photo, then stitch each spot in place, using the long yarn tails for the B-colour edging where required.
  • Sew the buttons on for eyes, using black sewing thread and a sewing needle; place them on the facial area above the nose and secure firmly.
  • Join the earflap facings and work the edging into the flap and main hat at the same time to create a neat, joined finish; weave in all ends.
  • If making pom-poms or ties, make from thin card, attach to the ends of the earflap cords and secure with extra stitching so they do not come loose.

Important Notes

  • 💡Use stitch markers to mark round starts and important join points, especially when changing between rounds and rows.
  • 💡Check your tension by making a small swatch; the pattern tension may require using a larger or smaller hook to obtain correct size.
  • 💡Pin all pieces in place before stitching to ensure correct alignment of earflaps, ears and facial features for a symmetrical finish.
  • 💡Leave long yarn tails when fastening off decorative pieces so you have plenty of length for sewing them neatly onto the hat.

This playful leopard hat is designed to be both fun and wearable, perfect for gifts or winter adventures. Make it in bold colours to stand out or in muted tones for a subtle, stylish look. Have fun placing the spots and personalising every detail to suit your style. 🐆🧶

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we answer.

FAQs

What sizes are included?

The pattern includes child size (to fit up to 20in/51cm head circumference) and adult size (to fit up to 22in/56cm head circumference).

Can I use different yarn weights?

Yes, but changing yarn weight will affect the finished size and drape; make a gauge swatch and choose a hook to match the suggested tension.

Do I need experience with charts and diagrams?

Basic familiarity with chart symbols and working increases and decreases is helpful; the written rounds and row instructions are provided to guide you.

How should I attach the spots and facial features?

Make the spots and nose as instructed, position them on the blocked hat and stitch them on using the long yarn tails and a darning needle; pin first to check placement.

Is a lining necessary?

A crocheted facing is included and you can omit it if planning to add a fleece lining; facings help produce a neat edge and keep the earflaps snug.