Crochet a wonderful gift for a newborn baby with this easy baby beanie hat crochet pattern (a free pattern)!
Buy the ad-free PDF of this pattern in my shop here!
Design Story and Inspiration for this Free Crochet Baby Hat Pattern
I love crocheting baby beanie hats. They are so fun and easy to make! This easy pattern uses some of my favorite yarn to create a fun and quick make that is suitable for any skill level.
Even though our own kids are no longer babies, I still enjoy making baby gifts and usually always know someone who is expecting, so I created this easy crochet baby hat pattern for when you need a quick gift!
Yarn Options for this Simple Baby Hat Crochet Pattern
I chose one of my favorite yarns for this project – Red Heart Boutique Unforgettable. I’ve used this yarn for the Unforgettable Scarf, the Unforgettable Tote and many other patterns and I just love it!
This is a small project that doesn’t use much yarn so it’s a great stash buster. Unforgettable is a worsted weight yarn (category #4 medium weight yarn) that is on the lighter side of a worsted, almost a DK weight yarn.
This is actually one of Red Heart“s most popular yarns and it’s easy to see why! I love the color changes in this yarn and I know it would look great with a matching baby blanket (sounds like I need to get going on one!). It comes in a variety of colors to suit your tastes.
It’s also machine washable, which is important for a finished product made for a baby!
Pattern Details for This Easy Crochet Hat Pattern
This pattern begins at the top of the hat with the magic ring (also called the magic circle) and works from the center out. Since it’s a newborn size, it’s only 4.5″ in diameter before you stop increasing and continue for the body of the hat on 48 sts.
This free crochet pattern uses only basic crochet stitches. The only stitches used in this pattern are the slip stitch, double crochet stitches and post double crochet (no single crochet or other stitches). You do join each round.
How to Customize This Free Crochet Hat Pattern
This pattern is written for a newborn hat, but it can easily be made larger (3-6 months, etc) by continuing to increase the top before working even on a certain number of stitches.
Baby hats are so easy to customize! Add a cute pom pom to the top, use a different size crochet hook to make different sizes, or use different colors for a baby boy or baby girls (choice is totally up to you!). Such a great gift idea!
You can also find a PDF version of the baby beanie hat crochet pattern if you prefer ad-free.
Be sure to check out these free baby hat crochet patterns
Buy the ad-free PDF of this pattern in my shop here!
Unforgettable Baby Beanie Hat
What You’ll Need
Yarn: Red Heart Unforgettable, One Skein Tealberry
Crochet Hook: US Size J (6.00mm)
Notions: Yarn needle (also called a tapestry needle), scissors
Finished Size: Approximately 14” circumference to fit newborn
Gauge: Rounds 1-6 = 4.5” in diameter
Stitch Abbreviations
Slip Stitch (sl st)
Double Crochet (dc)
Front Post Double Crochet (fpdc): Yo, insert your hook from front to back to front around the post of the next stitch, yo, pull up a loop, yo, pull through 2 loops on your hook, yo, pull through remaining two loops on your hook.
Back Post Double Crochet (bpdc): Yo, insert your hook from back to front to back around the post of the next stitch, yo, pull up a loop, yo, pull through 2 loops on your hook, yo, pull through remaining two loops on your hook.
Notes
Ch 2 at the beginning of round does not count as dc.
Join each round with slip stitch in first dc.
Unforgettable Baby Beanie Hat Crochet Pattern
Make a magic ring.
Round 1: Ch 2, 8 dc in magic ring (8 sts).
Round 2: Ch 2, (fpdc, dc) in each st (16 sts).
Round 3: Ch 2, *fpdc, 2 dc in next st; repeat from * around (24 sts).
Round 4: Ch 2, *fpdc, dc, 2 dc in next st; repeat from * around (32 sts).
Round 5: Ch 2, *fpdc, dc in next 2 sts, 2 dc in next st; repeat from * around (40 sts).
Round 6: Ch 2, *fpdc, dc in next 3 sts, 2 dc in next st; repeat from * around (48 sts).
Rounds 7-11: Ch 2, *fpdc, dc in next 5 sts; repeat from * around.
Rounds 12-13: Ch 2, *fpdc, bpdc; repeat from * around.
Fasten off.
Weave in ends.
Tips and Tricks for Crafting the Perfect Baby Beanie Hat
Creating an adorable baby hat for little ears is so much fun, but it can come with its own set of challenges. Whether you are an experienced crocheter or a beginner, these tips and tricks will help you crochet a warm hat for a little one.
- Choose the Right Yarn: The best yarn for a baby hat is hypoallergenic and gently on a baby’s sensitive skin. This yarn is a great choice, but there are many wonderful baby yarns out there that could also work well.
- Maintain Even Tension: Consistent tension is crucial for uniform stitches. If you’re new to crochet, it takes practice, but you’ll get the hang of it.
- Use Stitch Markers: Especially if you’re a beginner, stitch markers can be a lifesaver. Use them to mark the turning chain where you will join the round with a slip stitch, or even place a marker where you need to increase stitches.
- Gauge Matters: Always make a gauge swatch before you begin. This ensures that your finished hat will be the right size. Remember, the gauge for this pattern is Rounds 1-6 = 4.5” in diameter.
- Customize with Colors: If you don’t use a color changing yarn like I did, don’t hesitate to get creative with colors! Whether you want to stick to traditional baby hues or go for something more vibrant, the choice is yours.
- Keep a Yarn Needle Handy: A yarn needle is essential for weaving in ends and can also be used to attach embellisments like pom-poms.
- Double Check Your Count: It’s easy to lose track of your stitches when you’re engrossed in a pattern. Double check your stitch count regularly to avoid any mistakes. (I’ve been there!)
Common Questions about Crocheting a Baby Beanie Hat
In this section, we’ll address some of the most commonly asked questions about crocheting a baby beanie hat. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crocheter, these FAQs will provide additional insights to enhance your crafting experience.
What type of yarn is best for a baby beanie hat?
The best yarn for a baby beanie hat is soft, hypoallergenic, and machine-washable. Worsted or DK weight yarns are commonly used, but make sure to check the yarn label for care instructions and material content.
Can I use a different hook size?
Yes, you can use a different hook size to adjust the size of the hat. However, make sure to do a gauge swatch to ensure the finished size meets your expectations.
How can I adjust the pattern for a larger size?
To make a larger hat, continue increasing rounds before working on the body of the hat. Each size will require a different number of stitches, so make sure to calculate accordingly.
How do I add a pom-pom or other embellishments?
You can easily add a pom-pom by attaching it to the top of the hat using a yarn needle. Other embellishments like buttons or appliqués can also be sewn on.
How much yarn will I need for this project?
This pattern is a great stash-buster and doesn’t require much yarn. One skein of Red Heart Unforgettable should be sufficient for a newborn size.
Can I make this hat for charitable donations?
Absolutely! Handmade baby beanie hats are often welcomed by hospitals, orphanages, and charities. Just make sure to check the specific yarn and care requirements of the organization you’re donating to.
How do I care for the finished hat?
Most baby-friendly yarns are machine washable. However, it’s always a good idea to check the care instructions on the yarn label to ensure longevity.
What if my stitches don’t look even?
Uneven stitches are often a result of inconsistent tension. Practice makes perfect, so don’t hesitate to redo sections if you’re unhappy with how they look.
Can I sell hats made from this pattern?
It is fine to make and sell finished items from any pattern on this site! You can sell finished products but may not sell or distribute the pattern itself.
Final Thoughts on Our Baby Beanie Hat Crochet Pattern
You’ve made it to the end and now we are wrapping up our baby beanie hat journey! Now you have all the knowledge you need to craft a beautiful, cozy baby beanie hat.
From selecting the perfect yarn to mastering the basic stitches, you’re all set!
Remember, the beauty of a handmade hat lies in the love and care you pour into each stitch. Your finished baby beanie hat is more than just a piece of fabric, it’s a bundle of warmth and comfort for a little one.
I’d love for you to share your completed projects on social media and tag love.life.yarn! Your unique creations are so inspiring!
So go ahead, grab your hook and yarn and start creating something truly special. Whether it’s for a newborn baby in your family, a friend’s baby shower or a charitable donation, your handmade beanie hat will bring smiles and warmth all around.
Happy Crocheting!
Amanda
Ann
Hi Amanda! First things first: I want to THANK YOU for all the work you do and have done! I’ve been subscribed for a long time, and I just love your work. I am especially grateful for the clarity of your patterns. I’ve made so many of your projects, and attended your baby blanket course. All of them have made me a much better crochet-er.!
I also love making the beanies, but I’m having a hard time finding organizations that will accept donations for hats and scarves in particular (I found ones for the baby blankets.) I’m in the Chicago area. Do you know of any charities that accept these?
amanda
Hi Ann! I don’t know of any places that will accept donations in your area, sorry about that. I live near Nashville and some of our local hospitals take them, so maybe there is something like that up there. 🙂
Ann
Thanks, Amanda! I appreciate the tip.