A baby hat is the fastest finished object in crochet. A newborn beanie uses under 50 yards of yarn and works up in about an hour, which makes baby hats the go-to for quick gifts, hospital donations, and using up small amounts of soft yarn.
Sizing is the whole game with baby hats, because the range from preemie to toddler is small but precise. Newborn circumference is roughly 13 to 14 inches (33 to 36 cm), three to six months is about 14 to 17 inches (36 to 43 cm), and toddler is around 18 to 20 inches (46 to 51 cm). Use a soft, washable yarn and embroider any features rather than using safety eyes on a baby item.
What you need
- Yarn
- Soft washable worsted (CYC 4) or DK (CYC 3). Under 50 yards for a newborn.
- Skill
- Beginner. A baby hat is the same crown-and-body shaping as an adult beanie, just smaller.
Baby Hat projects to make
- 1Newborn beanie. A one-hour first hat. Teaches small-scale crown decreases.
- 2Topknot or pixie hat. A pointed or knotted top for a cute finish. Teaches simple shaping.
- 3Eared animal hat. A beanie with added ears. Teaches attaching small shaped pieces.
- 4Striped baby beanie. Soft color stripes. Teaches color changes in the round.
Where to find free baby hat patterns
Free baby hat patterns are abundant on yarn brand sites and Ravelry, often with a full size range in one pattern. Choose one with a clear sizing chart so the hat actually fits.
Stitches you will use
- Half Double CrochetUS: hdc / UK: htr
- Single CrochetUS: sc / UK: dc
- Double CrochetUS: dc / UK: tr
Looking for more? See all crochet hats patterns.