How to Crochet a Chunky Back Loop Only Beanie

Materials & tools you'll need

Step 1 — Work the foundation chain

Make a slip knot and chain 50 stitches, keeping your tension even throughout. This foundation chain will measure approximately 16 inches when gently stretched and forms the brim edge of the beanie. Adjust the number of chains up or down if you're sizing the beanie for a smaller or larger head — the chain count controls circumference, not the row count.

Step 2 — Work the first row in half double crochet

Skip the first two chains and insert your hook into the third chain from the hook. Yarn over, insert the hook into the stitch, yarn over again and pull through, then yarn over once more and pull through all three loops on the hook to complete a half double crochet. Repeat across the remaining chains, then chain 1 and turn.

Step 3 — Work the back loop only rows to length

For each remaining row, insert your hook into the gap between the first two stitches of the previous row to keep the edges tidy, then work a half double crochet into the back loop only of every stitch across the row — the back loop is the loop farthest from you, forming a "V" shape. Work the final stitch of each row through both loops to secure the edge. Chain 1 and turn after every row. Continue for a total of 50 rows, producing the characteristic ribbed texture from the back loop only technique. A rectangle roughly 19 inches long is a good target before folding.

Step 4 — Join the sides into a tube

Fold the finished rectangle in half widthwise so the two short edges meet, with the working tail on the outside. Join the sides with slip stitches: insert the hook into the first stitch of one edge, pull the loop through, then insert the hook into the corresponding stitch on the opposite edge and pull the loop through both stitches. Repeat this across the full length of the seam to close the rectangle into a tube shape.

Step 5 — Reinforce the seam

Thread a length of yarn onto your yarn needle and weave it through the rows at the crown end of the tube, moving up and down through the stitches as you go around. Pull the yarn snug to gather and close the top of the beanie, then tie off securely with a knot and weave in the tail.

Step 6 — Fold the brim and finish

Turn the beanie right side out and fold the bottom edge up to form the brim — the 19-inch body length becomes roughly a 9.5-inch folded brim. Roll the brim up or down to adjust between a snug and a slouchy fit, rolling it twice for a thicker, stiffer brim if you prefer. Weave in any remaining yarn tails securely before wearing or gifting.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a single strand of yarn instead of two for this beanie?
Yes. A single strand of bulky weight yarn will work in place of two held-together strands of chunky yarn. The fabric will be a little thinner and less insulating, but it will still be warm, soft, and hold the ribbed back loop only texture just as well.

How do I adjust this beanie pattern for a different head size?
Change the number of foundation chains rather than the number of rows. Fewer chains produce a smaller circumference and more chains a larger one. A 50-chain foundation measuring roughly 16 inches stretched is a good starting point for a standard adult size.

Can I substitute a different stitch for the back loop only half double crochet?
Yes. Single crochet or double crochet both work in place of half double crochet if you want a different texture or drape. Keep the stitch count consistent across rows so the finished rectangle keeps its shape before assembly.

How do I get a snug fit once the beanie is assembled?
After folding the brim, roll it up to your preferred depth and adjust the tightness of the reinforcing seam at the crown. A yarn needle can be used to weave through the folded edge and pull it slightly tighter for a more secure, snug fit.

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