Crochet Baby Hat with Ribbed Brim: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 30/05/2025

Crafting adorable handmade gifts for newborns is a cherished tradition, and few projects are as rewarding – or as practical – as a crocheted baby hat. This delightful accessory not only keeps little ones cozy and warm but also offers a wonderful opportunity for creative expression. A beautifully crocheted hat, especially one featuring a charming ribbed brim, is a timeless keepsake that parents will treasure for years to come. The perfect blend of warmth and style, this hat is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner crocheters.

This comprehensive guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process for crocheting a baby hat with a delightful ribbed brim. From choosing the right yarn to mastering the finishing touches, we’ll walk you through each stage, ensuring you create a beautiful and perfectly fitting hat for the special baby in your life. Let's get started and transform some yarn into a cherished heirloom!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Number four medium worsted weight yarn
  • Five millimeter US size H8 crochet hook
  • Yarn needle
  • Scissors
  • Measuring tape
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use yarn and hook sizes appropriate for a baby's delicate skin. Avoid anything too rough or scratchy.
  • Never leave a baby unattended while wearing a crocheted hat. Ensure the hat fits snugly but not too tight to avoid restricting breathing or blood flow.
  • Inspect the finished hat carefully for any loose ends or potential choking hazards before putting it on the baby.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Create the Foundation

    • Begin with a magic circle (or chain 3 and slip stitch).
    • Chain 2, then work 12 double crochets into the magic circle, working over both strands of the loop. Join with a slip stitch.
    Round 1: Chain 2, then work 12 double crochets into the magic circle, working over both strands of the loop. Join with a slip stitch.Round 1: Chain 2, then work 12 double crochets into the magic circle, working over both strands of the loop. Join with a slip stitch.
    Create the Foundation

  2. Increase Rounds

    • Chain 3 (or alternative chain 3), then work 2 double crochets in each stitch around. Join with a slip stitch. (24 stitches)
    • Chain 3 (or alternative chain 3), *1 double crochet in the next stitch, 2 double crochets in the next stitch*; repeat from * to * around. Join with a slip stitch. (36 stitches)
    • Chain 3 (or alternative chain 3), *1 double crochet in each of the next two stitches, 2 double crochets in the next stitch*; repeat from * to * around. Join with a slip stitch. (48 stitches). For larger sizes (child, teen, adult), continue to round 5.
    • Chain 3 (or alternative chain 3), *1 double crochet in each of the next three stitches, 2 double crochets in the next stitch*; repeat from * to * around. Join with a slip stitch. (60 stitches). For medium and large adult sizes, do another round of increases to reach 72 stitches.
    Round 5 (For child, teen, and small adult sizes): Chain 3 (or alternative chain 3), *1 double crochet in each of the next three stitches, 2 double crochets in the next stitch*; repeat from * to * around. Join with a slip stitch. (60 stitches). For medium and large adult sizes, do another round of increases to reach 72 stitches.Round 5 (For child, teen, and small adult sizes): Chain 3 (or alternative chain 3), *1 double crochet in each of the next three stitches, 2 double crochets in the next stitch*; repeat from * to * around. Join with a slip stitch. (60 stitches). For medium and large adult sizes, do another round of increases to reach 72 stitches.Round 5 (For child, teen, and small adult sizes): Chain 3 (or alternative chain 3), *1 double crochet in each of the next three stitches, 2 double crochets in the next stitch*; repeat from * to * around. Join with a slip stitch. (60 stitches). For medium and large adult sizes, do another round of increases to reach 72 stitches.Round 5 (For child, teen, and small adult sizes): Chain 3 (or alternative chain 3), *1 double crochet in each of the next three stitches, 2 double crochets in the next stitch*; repeat from * to * around. Join with a slip stitch. (60 stitches). For medium and large adult sizes, do another round of increases to reach 72 stitches.
    Increase Rounds

  3. Body of the Hat

    • Continue working in the round with one double crochet in each stitch until the hat reaches the desired height.
    Continue working in the round with one double crochet in each stitch until the hat reaches the desired height.
    Body of the Hat

  4. Add Ribbed Brim

    • Change to a contrasting color (optional). Chain 3 (or alternative chain 3). *Front post double crochet, double crochet*; repeat from * to * around. Repeat for 1 round (baby sizes), 2 rounds (toddler/preschool/child), or 3 rounds (adult sizes).
    Ribbing: Change to a contrasting color (optional). Chain 3 (or alternative chain 3). *Front post double crochet, double crochet*; repeat from * to * around. Repeat for 1 round (baby sizes), 2 rounds (toddler/preschool/child), or 3 rounds (adult sizes).
    Add Ribbed Brim

  5. Finishing Touches

    • Fasten off and weave in ends.
    Fasten off and weave in ends.
    Finishing Touches

Read more: Knitting a Reversible Basketweave Blanket: A Customizable Guide

Tips

  • Check your gauge to ensure your hat will be the correct size.
  • Use a stitch marker to mark the first stitch of each round.
  • The alternative chain 3 method is preferred for starting double crochet rounds.
  • Ensure an even stitch count for the ribbing section.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inconsistent Tension

Reason: Uneven tension throughout the hat leads to a misshapen or lumpy result, especially noticeable in the ribbed brim.
Solution: Maintain consistent tension by practicing your stitches and using a tension ring or gauge swatch before starting the hat.

2. Incorrect Ribbing Pattern

Reason: Mistakes in the knit and purl stitch sequence of the ribbed brim create an uneven or distorted edge.
Solution: Carefully follow the rib pattern instructions, counting stitches and rows to ensure accuracy.

FAQs

What type of yarn is best for a baby crochet hat?
Soft, hypoallergenic yarns like 100% cotton, merino wool (superwash treated for machine washability), or a blend of cotton and acrylic are ideal for baby hats. Avoid anything scratchy or that might irritate delicate skin.