Looking for a beginner-friendly knit hat pattern? Find the best free knit hat patterns here that are suitable for beginners.
If you are new to knitting then you are in the right place. Welcome to the wonderful world of knitting! Any one of these easy-knit hat patterns would be an excellent choice for one of your first patterns.
So how do you knit a hat anyway? I know that hats can be a bit intimidating but they’re really not all that hard to make. If you can cast on, cast off, knit, and purl, then I’m confident that you can make any of these easy knit hat patterns!
And don’t you go thinking that all of these hats are going to be boring and basic because these beginner-friendly knits are anything but! Prepare to be amazed at all the different easy-knit hat patterns you can make with basic knitting skills.
We’ve got monochrome hats and multicolored hats, fitted hats and slouchy hats, textured hats, and smooth hats, hats with pom poms and hats without pom poms, cuffed hats and rolled brims, and there’s probably some other stuff too that I forgot about.
The point is that the possibilities here are endless! The only limit to your next adventure in knitting is your imagination. Check out these amazing easy knit hat patterns and pick your favorite (or do eeny meeny miney mo if you can’t decide). Then just grab your needles and yarn and go for it! You might be surprised by what you can accomplish!
Tips for Knitting Hats
Hats really do look complicated to a beginner and I can clearly remember when I knit my first hat. I knit my first hat ( and several since!) on straight needles and simply seamed up the back. It’s totally possible and easy to do! In fact, if you want an easy hat pattern that requires NO decreasing and worked on straight needles, check out this one I designed:
Made with bulky weight yarn, this is about as simple as it comes. If you can knit and purl on straight needles, you CAN make this hat. Click here for the free simple hat knitting pattern.
Once I mastered hats on straight needles I was ready to try working them in the round. I started with double-pointed needles (DPNs) and eventually learned to use and love the magic loop method on circular knitting needles. This is where you use one long circular needle to knit in the round. It took me a bit to get the hang of it but now it is the only way I’ll knit in the round!
If you decide to work in the round make sure you use stitch markers. These will help you keep track of what’s going on with your hat. Mark the beginning of the round, of course, but you can also mark the decreased areas.
Beanies and hats are amazing for using up a single skein of yarn, or for using up leftover odds and ends – especially if you use stripes or other color work. The possibilities are endless! So let’s take a look at some tips and tricks for hat knitting.
First, you need a good idea of what size hat you would like to make. The typical hat circumference is smaller than the wearer’s head to ensure a snug fit. So, for me, I know I have a 22″ circumference head so most all the patterns you will see on the site are 20″ circumference. Typically, a preemie hat will be around 12″, a baby hat 14-16″, a toddler/child hat will be 18″, a teen or adult small 20″, and an adult large 22″. Of course, your hat can be whatever circumference fits you!
Next, gauge is important!!! Please, please take time to check your gauge. I’ve skipped this before and ended up with a hat the size of Montana… not fun and I wasted a ton of time knitting it. Ensure you are getting the correct gauge or your hat will end up too large (like mine) or too small.
Finally, ensure that you are not casting on too tightly if working bottom up or binding off too tightly if working top down. You want the edge of your brim to be elastic so that it will stretch to fit, so be sure to take care when working either the cast-on or bind-off edge, depending upon your pattern.
What are the best yarns for knit hats?
I’ve loved just about every type of yarn I’ve tried for a hat – except I would caution against making a winter hat out of cotton!! I had picked up some gorgeous cotton yarn and decided it was perfect for a hat… except that my new hat was not really very warm at all. Not sure what I was thinking.
I’ve made hats out of acrylic that worked out really well because they could almost always be thrown in the washing machine if needed. This is especially good for kid’s hats because they always tend to get a bit messy. Acrylic is generally comfortable on the skin, too, if you get a nicer kind. Steer clear of the super cheap acrylics for hats.
A lot of people make hats out of wool, and this is definitely a warm option I’ve used a lot. Eventually, I find that wool hats tend to make my forehead itch a bit after wearing them for a while, but I still love the comfort and versatility of wool. Keep in mind if making a hat as a gift that some people are allergic to wool.
See the yarn recommendations for hats here!
Okay, now that we’ve talked about some basic pointers for hats, let’s see these free-knit hat patterns!!
25+ Hat Knitting Patterns for Beginners
These easy hat-knitting patterns are like a buffet for your needles. It’s all you can knit with 6 different sizes to choose from. There are 3 different brim styles on the menu - a 2x2 rib, a folded 1x1 rib, or a rolled 1x1 rib. Top it off with a stockinette stitch for the main part of the hat.
Designer: Vanessa Ewing
Yarn: (Worsted Weight #4)
Think you need to know fancy stitches to pull off this insane level of texture? Think again! Many of these best-knit hat patterns - including this one - only use knit and purl stitches. This design is worked from the bottom up and it features an on-trend faux fur pom pom.
Designer: Imke von Nathusius
Yarn: DROPS Nepal (Worsted Weight #4)
Ease into the wonderful world of fair isle knitting a hat with a deceptively simple design that features an easy 6-stitch repeat. Don’t worry, you don’t have to start the decrease rounds until after the colorwork is complete, so you only have to worry about one thing at a time. These easy-knit hat patterns are so handy for learning new skills!
Designer: Ishbel Miller
Yarn: (Bulky Weight #5)
This isn’t your grandma’s knitting! The best way to show off your rebellious side is with a comfortable and fashionable slouchy knit hat. It just goes to show that easy-knit hat patterns can absolutely be stylish! This design calls for a seed stitch with columns of knit stitches in between. It is worked in the round from the bottom up.
Designer: Athena Knits|
Yarn: (Worsted Weight #4)
Do you have some extra time on your hands? Many of these easy knit hat patterns - like this adorable Do Gooder hat - make for excellent donations to charity. This stunning design is worked in the garter rib stitch pattern - ribbing rounds alternate with rounds entirely made of knit stitches. The pattern is available in sizes child through adult man.
Designer: Sharon Mooney
Yarn: Cascade Yarns Cherub (Worsted Weight #4)
Everyone’s favorite breakfast food makes an appearance in the next one of our easy-knit hat patterns. The tantalizing texture of the waffle stitch is highly coveted in the knitting world for its look and its feel. Plus, it makes a nice and cozy beanie! This design is worked from the bottom up using just knit, purl, and knit 2 together stitches.
Designer: Anna Voronezhsyaka
Yarn: (Sport Weight #3)
A Super bulky knit hat is a great way to cut down on knitting time which makes it perfect for last-minute gifting. It can also make stitches easier to see which makes it ideal for newbies. Any way you slice it this easy knit hat pattern is a win-win. It calls for knit, purl, and knit 2-together stitches and features an allover 2x2 rib.
Designer: Lion Brand
Yarn: Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick (Super Bulky Weight #6)
Stop scrolling! I know this hat looks intimidating but, trust me, you’ve got this! Easy-knit beanie patterns don’t always appear simple on the surface. You only need to know how to knit, purl, and knit 2 together. Plus, with this clever design, you’ll only ever be working with 2 colors at a time.
Designer: Paintbox Yarns
Yarn: Paintbox Yarns 100% Wool Superwash (Worsted Weight #4)
Not feeling up to tackling stranded colorwork just yet? No worries, you can still make this multicolor delight! Easy handmade knit hat patterns with stripes are a great way to play with colors without having to worry about switching in the middle of rows. This design calls for knit, purl, and slip stitches. There is also a more advanced version with spiral lines!
Designer: Claire Slade
Yarn: West Yorkshire Spinners Re: Treat (Bulky Weight #5)
There is no worse feeling than making a hat that doesn’t fit! If you are looking for an easy knitted hat pattern to make something for someone else, then might not know if it will fit them until you’re already done making it. Let’s improve the chances of a good outcome with an extra stretchy hat that has both a smaller and a larger option for adults.
Designer: Joan Laws
Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash (Worsted Weight #4)
Here’s another easy knit hat pattern that was designed to be given away to charity. There’s no separate stitch pattern for the brim of this hat, so it’s perfect for a nice mindless make while listening to a podcast. The design is worked in the round from the bottom up using an allover 2x2 rib pattern and knit 2 together for crown shaping.
Designer: Lavanya Patricella
Yarn: (Bulky Weight #5)
Which would you choose: stretch or slouch? Just kidding, you’re going to get both with this easy knit hat pattern. The design features an extra wide brim made with a 2x2 rib stitch pattern. Stockinette stitch is used for the main part of the hat and knit 2 together are used to shape the top.
Designer: Lavanya Patricella
Yarn: Cascade 220 Superwash (Worsted Weight #4)
Let’s throw a couple more easy knit hat patterns in here that are made with super bulky yarn. This quick design features an extra cozy double brim made in a 2x2 rib stitch pattern. Then it’s on to the easy peasy top part of the hat made in stockinette. Top it off with 2 measly rounds of knit 2 together decreasing and you’re done!
Designer: Nicole Peters
Yarn: Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick (Super Bulky Weight #6)
Go beyond the basics with an easy knit hat pattern that’s positively brimming with texture! It really is amazing what all you can make with just knit and purl stitches along with yarn overs and knitting 2 together. Oh, and check out that yarn weight again. That’s right - it’s another knitting win for super bulky yarn!
Designer: Nadine Dransfield
Yarn: Stylecraft Weekender (Super Bulky Weight #6)
You can liven up a monochrome design with an interesting stitch pattern! The texture in this design is a little more subtle, but it’s definitely not short on style! I love easy-knit hat patterns like this one that is a good balance of simple and interesting. The design and instructions are worked with just basic knit stitches and can be made fitted or slouchy.
Designer: Fitz & Lola
Yarn: Paintbox Yarns Simply Chunky (Bulky Weight #5)
Ok, so you know how to knit stitch and you know how to purl stitch, but do you know how to slip stitch? It’s easy! All you have to do is move a loop from your left needle to your right needle. It’s a neat little trick that makes blended color changes like this one snap! Who says easy-knit hat patterns can’t teach you new tricks?
Designer: Amanda Hester Smith
Yarn: Quince & Co Lark (Worsted Weight #4)
Two-color easy knit hat patterns are a great way to use up 2 partial skeins of yarn. Colorblock is less work than stripes, plus it’s super on-trend. After a quick 2x2 ribbed brim, it’s smooth sailing stockinette for the rest of the hat. That means fewer purl stitches and more relaxing knitting, so you can focus on more important things like your tension or what you’re going to make for dinner.
Designer: Schachenmayr
Yarn: Schachenmayr Boston (Bulky Weight #5)
Easy knit hat patterns with rolled brims are so fun and different. This simple design only calls for knitting stitches and knitting 2 together. That’s right - no purl stitches! Plus, there are only two rows of decreasing stitches, so this hat pattern is a snap! Did you know that you could make a pom pom out of yarn that looks this good?
Designer: Debbie Bliss
Yarn: Debbie Bliss Merion (Bulky Weight #5)
Have you learned how to knit the linen stitch yet? It’s a great knit stitch pattern for beginner knitters to learn. When it’s worked in the round like this, you only need to know how to knit stitch, and how to slip stitch. The unique woven look of the linen stitch is really enhanced by the variegated yarn used in the sample hat shown above.
Designer: Katrine H
Yarn: Malabrigo Arroyo (Sport Weight #3)
Grab your favorite bulky hat-weight yarn (or use two strands of worsted-weight yarn held doubled) to make this stylish and slouchy hat. I’m so used to seeing pom poms on fitted hats that it’s really refreshing to see one here on a slouchy hat. As far as easy-knit hat patterns go, this one takes the cake!
Designer: Hannah Mann
Yarn: (Bulky Weight #5)
I love easy-knit hat patterns that can be worn in multiple ways. You can choose to don this cap cuffed or slouched. The design calls for a nice stretchy allover 1x1 rib with some simple crown shaping using knit 2 together. Finish the look with an adorable matching pom pom.
Designer: Hannah Mann
Yarn: (Bulky Weight #5)
What if I told you that you could make this ridiculously chic hat in any size with any yarn you want? And then what if I told you that there’s no purls, no shaping and you can make it on straight needles? I know it’s hard to believe, but this easy-knit hat pattern is the real deal! Made with a simple garter stitch rectangle.
Designer: Yay for Yarn
Yarn: Any yarn will do!
No fancy needle-waving magic here! Here’s another one of our easy knit hat patterns that features a fabulous texture that can be made with knit and purl stitches. This design is worked in the round from the bottom up. It features an extra wide brim made in a 1x1 rib stitch pattern. You’ll be using both knit 2 together and purl 2 together to shape the crown.
Designer: Kay JonesYarn: Bakery Bears Cottage (Worsted Weight #4)
Bam! The bright colors in these fabulous color block beanies really jump out at you and make a statement. The hardest part of this easy knit hat pattern is just deciding what colors to use! Other than that, it’s just knit stitches with a few rows of knit 2-togethers for crown shaping. Easy peasy!
Designer: Taralah Williams
Yarn: Hobby Lobby I Love This Yarn (Worsted Weight #4)
Remind everyone that you’re a queen with this fabulous knit beanie. Purl stitches form a crown on the beanie itself while the extra large pom pom declares your fabulousness to the world. This pattern calls for just knit and purl stitches along with knitting 2 together for crown shaping. What a fun and original design!
Designer: Ola OgunloluYarn: Wool and the Gang Crazy Sexy Wool (Super Bulky Weight #6)Click here for the free knitting pattern!
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Super Bulky Beanie on Straight Needles from Love.Life.Yarn
Find the Easy Bulky Knit Winter Beanie pattern here
You’ll Love This Easy Video Tutorial
Knit Hat Construction Guide
Knitting a hat is a delightful and rewarding project. Whether you’re crafting a cute baby hat or a warm adult hat, the process is often filled with joy and creativity. Below is a comprehensive guide on the construction methods for knit hats, ensuring your finished item is both beautiful and functional.
Choosing the Right Pattern and Yarn
Before you start, it’s essential to choose a free knitting pattern that suits your needs. There are numerous free hat patterns available online, offering a range of styles from basic beanies to slouchy beanies. For beginners, an easy knitting pattern is great for starting, and you may want to opt for worsted weight yarn or chunky yarn for extra warmth and a quick project.
Tip: For a diverse selection, Ravelry offers a plethora of free and paid patterns, including the most popular knitting patterns for hats.
Determining the Right Size
To ensure your hat fits perfectly, measure the head size of the person for whom you are knitting. Baby hats will require smaller needles and less yarn, while adult hat patterns may necessitate the use of larger needles to accommodate different yarn weights. Always make a gauge swatch to ensure the right size.
Bottom-Up Hat Construction
Knitting the Body of the Hat
Start by casting on the required number of stitches for the body of the hat. You may want to use a folded brim for adult hats for extra warmth. Knit the body of the hat in the pattern of your choice, whether it’s a basic beanie or a cable knit pattern. For a chunky knit hat, consider using lion brand wool ease thick or another bulky yarn.
Tip: For a unique touch, consider using handspun yarns for your project.
Shaping the Top of the Hat
As you reach the top of the hat, you’ll need to decrease the number of stitches to form a rounded crown. Follow the instructions in your knit pattern for the best way to decrease stitches. Common ways include the slip slip knit method or knitting two stitches together.
Finishing the Hat
Once you’ve finished knitting, cut the yarn, leaving a long tail. Use a tapestry needle to thread the tail through the remaining stitches and pull tight to close the top of the hat. Weave in all loose ends to ensure your finished hat is neat and tidy.
Top-Down Hat Construction
Starting at the Top
- Beginning the Hat:
- Start by making a small loop or a magic ring at the top of the hat. This method is commonly used in crochet but can be adapted for knitting as well.
- Cast on a few stitches (usually 6-8) into the loop and join them in the round.
- Increasing Rounds:
- Increase the number of stitches in each round to expand the circle for the crown of the hat. Follow your pattern for the specific increase instructions, which usually occur every other row.
- Continue increasing until the diameter of the circle is close to the head size you are aiming for.
Tip: Use double-pointed needles or a circular needle with a short cable for this part of the process.
Knitting the Body of the Hat
- Switch to the Main Pattern:
- Once the top is wide enough, stop increasing and continue knitting in the round until the body of the hat reaches the desired length.
- You may want to switch to a longer circular needle as the number of stitches increases.
- Adding Patterns or Textures:
- This stage is great for adding cable patterns, lacework, or other textured stitches to your hat.
- Ensure your stitch count is compatible with any stitch patterns you want to use.
Finishing the Hat
- Knitting the Brim:
- When the body of the hat is the right length, you can knit the brim.
- For extra warmth, knit a folded brim by knitting double the length you want the brim to be, then fold it up.
- Alternatively, switch to smaller needles and knit a ribbed pattern for a snug fit.
- Binding Off:
- Bind off loosely to maintain the stretchiness of the brim.
- If you’ve knitted a folded brim, secure it with a few stitches to keep it in place.
- Adding Final Touches:
- Weave in all loose ends with a tapestry needle.
- Consider adding a label or other embellishments to personalize your finished hat.
Advantages of Top-Down Hat Knitting
- Easy to Try On:
- One of the best aspects of top-down hat knitting is the ability to try on the hat as you go, ensuring the fit is perfect.
- Flexible Length:
- You can easily adjust the length of the hat as you knit, ensuring you have enough yarn to finish the project.
- Versatile Designs:
- Top-down construction is also suitable for various designs, including slouchy beanies and snug-fitting winter hats.
Additional Tips
- For a fashionable touch, consider adding a pompom to the top of the hat.
- If knitting for a cause, consider making blue hats as part of an anti-bullying campaign.
- Explore video tutorials for visual guidance on how to knit hats.
- Consider yarn substitution for experimenting with textures and colors.
Want even MORE hat patterns? Check these out:
Final Thoughts on Easy Hat Knitting Patterns
Please tell me that you found the perfect pattern! I really hope that this great list of easy-knit hat patterns has been useful for you. I’m dying to know which patterns caught your eye. Have you tried any of these easy-knit hat patterns yet? Or have you tried any other easy knit hat patterns that you’d like to share with our knitting newbies?
Hats make great gifts and are appreciated by all ages. They are small projects that don’t use up a lot of yarn and they are also wonderful for a charity project. So, find one of these free hat knitting patterns and get to knitting!
Don’t forget, that sharing is caring! Send this free knitting pattern round-up to all your knitting friends so they can join in on the fun too! Bookmark this page or save the link to your Pinterest board for amazing knitting patterns.
I’ll see you next week for another free knitting pattern round-up. Make sure to follow the blog so you never miss a post. <3
Happy Knitting!
Amanda
I am a beginner. Do a great dishcloth. But will not wear a beanie. .looking for an easy knit beret or a hat with a brim pattern. Can a beginner do this? I have used circular or straight needles. Here in Texas where it’s supposed to hit 95 degrees today.
95 already? Wow and I thought TN got hot early. 🙂 Yes, a beginner can knit a hat pattern like you are describing, as long as you know how to increase and decrease. There are lots of great hats knit flat or since you’ve used circulars you should be able to make a beret or a hat with a brim. I’d do a search for “beginner beret” or something similar.
Hi!
I’m knitting hats with little bunny ears to raise money for the rabbit shelter I volunteer with – would it be okay if I used your ‘easiest hat ever’ pattern, which is brilliant for making lots of hats really quickly, and credited you? Where I live there are hundreds of rabbits living wild in the parks who are descended from escaped pets, and lots of them in starve or freeze to death in winter as the climate is too cold for them, so we rescue and rehome as many as we can and try to feed the rest.
Hi Kathy! It’s perfectly fine to use any of my patterns for charity or even to sell finished items. 🙂 Sounds like a great cause!