How to Crochet a Baby Hat with Double and Single Crochet Stitches

Materials & tools you'll need

Step 1 — Create the foundation chain and join

Begin by chaining 30 stitches for a small hat sized to fit newborns to three-month-olds. If you need a larger or smaller hat, simply adjust the starting stitch count — more chains for a bigger hat, fewer for a smaller one. Once your foundation chain is complete, join with a double crochet (dc) in the fourth chain from your hook and continue working in rows. This sets up the structure of the hat and determines how the subsequent rounds will build up into the tapered shape.

Step 2 — Increase stitches to shape the hat (rounds 1–9)

For rounds 1 through 9, work single crochet (sc) increases by crocheting into every third stitch around. This gradual increase creates the tapered, rounded shape that fits snugly over a baby's head without pulling or bunching. Keep your tension consistent throughout these rounds — even tension is especially important during the increase section, as it directly affects how well the finished hat sits. By the end of round 9, you'll have the full width of the hat established and be ready to work the crown.

Step 3 — Form the crown (round 10)

In round 10, switch to working double crochets (dc) only and continue until the crown of the hat reaches your desired height. The number of stitches in this round will vary depending on how tall you want the hat — a taller crown gives a classic beanie look, while a shorter crown sits closer to the head. Work this round evenly without any increases or decreases, letting the double crochet height do the shaping work for you.

Step 4 — Create a firm edge (round 11)

Work a full round of single crochet (sc) around the hat to create a firm, structured edge. This round stabilises the bottom of the hat and gives it the durability to hold its shape through repeated wear and washing. Single crochet produces a tighter, denser stitch than double crochet, so this final round adds a neat band that frames the hat and helps it sit evenly on a baby's head. Don't skip this step — it makes a noticeable difference to the finished look.

Step 5 — Add a ruffled edge (round 16)

For a charming finishing touch, add a ruffled edge in round 16. Work the following pattern around the entire brim: single crochet (sc) into the base of chain 1, chain 3, sc into the next stitch, chain 3 — and repeat this sequence to the end of the round. The alternating sc and ch3 loops create a delicate, frilly ruffle that gives the hat a distinctive handmade look. This step is optional but well worth adding if you want the hat to stand out as something truly special.

Step 6 — Finishing touches

Once all rounds are complete, weave in all loose ends securely using a yarn needle, threading through several stitches in different directions before trimming. Trim any excess yarn close to the work for a neat, polished appearance. Give the hat a gentle hand wash and reshape it while damp if needed — this is especially helpful for evening out any uneven stitches from the increase rounds. Once dry, your baby hat is ready to wear.

Frequently asked questions

Can the size of the baby hat be adjusted for different age groups?
Yes — simply change the number of increase rounds in the pattern. More increase rounds produce a larger hat, while fewer produce a smaller one. The base pattern fits newborns to three-month-olds.

What stitches are used to create this crochet baby hat?
The hat uses both double crochet (dc) and single crochet (sc). The foundation chain is joined with a double crochet, the body is built up with single crochet increases, and a final round of single crochet creates a firm edge before the optional ruffle.

How do I create a ruffled edge on my crochet baby hat?
Work round 16 with this pattern: sc into the base of chain 1, then ch3, sc into the next stitch, ch3, and repeat to the end of the round. This creates the charming ruffle effect around the brim.

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