Easy crochet hat pattern for beginners (top-down beanie)

A top-down hat is the best first hat because you can try it on as you go. You make a flat circle for the crown, stop increasing when it's the right size, then work straight down without increasing until the hat is long enough.

#Materials

• Worsted weight (#4) yarn, 150–200 yd
• 5.5 mm (I-9) hook
• Stitch marker and yarn needle

#Gauge

12 hdc and 9 rounds = 4 in (10 cm). Gauge matters on a hat, so check it on the crown: after round 4, your circle should measure about 4 in across.

#Sizes

#Abbreviations

• MR: magic ring
• hdc: half double crochet (how to)
• inc: 2 hdc in the same stitch
• sl st: slip stitch
• (...) x10: repeat 10 times

#Crown

Each round starts with ch 1, which doesn't count as a stitch, and ends with a sl st into the first hdc.

Rnd 1: In a MR, ch 1, 10 hdc. Pull the ring closed. (10)

Rnd 2: Inc in each st around. (20)

Rnd 3: (Hdc 1, inc) x10. (30)

Rnd 4: (Hdc 2, inc) x10. (40)

Rnd 5: (Hdc 3, inc) x10. (50) Stop here for Child.

Rnd 6: (Hdc 4, inc) x10. (60) Stop here for Adult S/M.

Rnd 7: (Hdc 5, inc) x10. (70) Adult L.

#Body

Next rounds: Ch 1, hdc in each st around, sl st to join. (50, 60, 70)

Repeat until the hat measures 6 (7, 7½) in from the centre of the crown. Try it on: the edge should reach the top of your ears.

#Brim

Brim rnds 1–3: Ch 1, sc in each st around, sl st to join.

Fasten off and weave in the ends. For a slouchier look, add 4–6 extra body rounds before the brim. Want a stretchier ribbed version? Try our chunky ribbed beanie.