🧢 How to Make a Crochet Hat for Children – Step-by-Step Tutorial

Crocheting a hat for a child is one of the most rewarding and practical projects you can make. It’s quick, fun, and can be customized in countless ways. Whether you’re making a cozy winter hat or a lightweight accessory, this tutorial will walk you through how to crochet a basic children’s hat with clear steps and tips — perfect for beginners!

🧶 Materials You’ll Need

Before we begin, gather the following supplies:

Yarn: Worsted weight yarn (medium/Category 4)
- Cotton for summer hats
- Acrylic or wool blends for warmth
- Approx. 100–150 grams
Crochet Hook: 5.0 mm (H-8) or size needed to match gauge
Yarn Needle: For weaving in ends
Scissors
Measuring Tape
Stitch Marker (optional but helpful)

✨ Skill Level

Beginner – Easy

If you know how to make a magic ring, double crochet, and work in the round, you’re ready!

📏 Sizing Guide for Children’s Hats

Use the chart below to determine the size you want to make:

Age Group	Head Circumference	Hat Height
Toddler (1–3 yrs)	18″–20″	6.5″–7″
Child (4–10 yrs)	20″–22″	7″–7.5″

You can easily adjust by adding or removing rows.

🔁 Stitches & Abbreviations (US Terms)

ch – chain
sl st – slip stitch
sc – single crochet
dc – double crochet
inc – increase (2 dc in one stitch)
st(s) – stitch(es)

🧢 Crochet Hat Pattern for Children – Top Down (Double Crochet)

We’ll crochet from the crown down to the brim.

🌀 Step 1: Crown (Top of Hat)

We start with a magic ring or chain loop and increase in rounds.

Round 1: Make a magic ring. Ch 2 (counts as first dc), 11 dc into ring. Join with sl st. (12 dc)

Round 2: Ch 2, dc in same st, 2 dc in each st around. Join. (24 dc)

Round 3: Ch 2, *dc in next st, 2 dc in next st*, repeat around. Join. (36 dc)

Round 4: Ch 2, *dc in next 2 sts, 2 dc in next st*, repeat around. Join. (48 dc)

Round 5: Ch 2, *dc in next 3 sts, 2 dc in next st*, repeat around. Join. (60 dc)

Round 6 (optional if larger size needed): Ch 2, *dc in next 4 sts, 2 dc in next st*, repeat. Join. (72 dc)

👉 Stop increasing when your circle is approx. 5.5″–6″ in diameter for child sizes.

🧶 Step 2: Body of the Hat

Now continue straight without increasing.

Rounds 7–13: Ch 2, dc in each st around. Join. (Same stitch count)

→ Continue adding rounds until the hat measures about 7" in height.

🧵 Step 3: Optional Ribbed Brim (for snug fit)

Add some texture and elasticity with front and back post stitches.

Rounds 14–16:
*Front post dc in next st, back post dc in next st*, repeat around. Join each round.

This creates a stretchy, ribbed brim for a better fit.

🎨 Optional Customizations

Here are some fun ways to personalize your child’s hat:

🧸 Add Ears (Bear or Cat Style)

Ch 6, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across. Ch 1, turn.
Rows 2–4: Sc across. Ch 1, turn.
Row 5: Dec 1 sc on each end. (Tapering)
Row 6: Sc across. Fasten off and sew on as ears.

🧶 Add a Pom-Pom

Use a pom-pom maker or wrap yarn around your hand
Trim and tie tightly
Sew to the top center of the hat

💐 Add a Crochet Flower or Patch

Crochet a small 5-petal flower or buy iron-on patches
Sew them securely to the side for a cute accent

🧼 Washing Instructions

If using acrylic yarn: Machine washable (cold water), tumble dry low
If using cotton or wool: Hand wash, lay flat to dry

Always check your yarn label for specific care instructions.

✅ Final Tips

Try on as you go: If possible, check the fit on the child.
Adjust hook size: If the hat feels too loose or tight, go down or up a hook size.
Mark the rounds: Use a stitch marker at the beginning of each round to stay on track.