You’ll love this collection of the best free crochet hat patterns. These easy beanie and hat patterns are perfect for beginner crocheters.

I made a resolution for this year – I WILL learn how to crochet! I see a lot of patterns for hats and other yarn goodies in my Pinterest feed and whenever I click on them they are always crocheted.
I’ve tried to learn before but I never practiced . . . I need to take a class and commit, and it’s one of the things I’ve promised myself this year.
I’ve been a knitter since I was 15 years old, which means that basically since the dawn of time I’ve made yarn items with two needles.
But there’s something so awesome about 1) holding one needle in one hand instead of two; and 2) being able to work up a pattern so quickly.
I love knitting, but it’s not always easy to find patterns that are fast, especially when it comes to hats. I find a lot of small gauge (stitch) patterns as well as ones that use round or double pointed needles. While this isn’t a problem for me given my years of experience, it’s not always the easiest for everyone.
How to Crochet a Hat
I’ve decided the first thing I’m going to learn in crochet is how to crochet a hat. It seems to be the place that most people start, especially those who have a knitting background. I feel like I can jump right in.
What Draws Me to Crochet
I’m really loving the lacy look that some of these projects provide! A lace or granny square effect is much more difficult to achieve with knitting. You see why I need to learn how to crochet??
I know exactly what I’m going to make after I learn – one of these 20 free crochet hat patterns. I love hats, and they seem to work up pretty quickly compared to other crochet projects, so I’m excited to get going.
If you’re ready to make yourself a cute slouchy hat, then grab your crochet hook, some worsted weight yarn, and get started! Check out the easy patterns below and let me know what you think in the comments.
(PS – check out our yarn weights guide which comes in handy for both knit and crochet).
Free Crochet Hat Patterns
Looking for some winter hat inspiration? Here are 20 free crochet hat patterns you are going to love! These patterns are perfect for beginners.
Uri Beanie
Allison designed this hat during winter storm Uri this year (hence the name). Remember all of those power outages in Texas? At least something beautiful was able to come out of it!
Granny Square Hat
As far as free crochet hat patterns go, this is one of my faves. I’ve always loved granny squares – they look so great coming together in this hat.
One Hour Crochet Hat Pattern
This is a great beginner crochet hat project. It is easy and you can finish it in one hour. Feel a sense of accomplishment by finishing your first hat in such a little amount of time!
Black Cat Slouch
I love the yarn Alexis used for this hat - black with little flecks of gold. I think it gives it a unique look and makes a fun and quirky hat!
Mad for Plaid
This plaid crochet hat pattern is one of my favorite free crochet hat patterns of all time! I’m totally mad for plaid. Bethany also has boot cuffs, a wreath, arm warmers, pillow, and a variety of hat styles . . . all plaid and all crochet . . . on her site. It’s worthwhile to visit her and check out the patterns.
Comfy Earflaps Crochet Hat
If you live in an especially cold weather area, this hat with earflaps is the perfect solution. You can choose to make this free crochet pattern in a striped yarn as shown, or a solid color if that’s what you prefer.
Easy Fold Up Crochet Hat Pattern
Have you ever made a hat and it is too small or too big? This free pattern post gives simple directions to make sure a hat will fit. She also shows how the hat looks with two different weight yarns.
Open Weave with Flower
This hat with the bold flower is perfect for both adult women and children. There are a few color variations that you can see on her site, and there’s no limit to what you can do with this! Wouldn’t that crocheted flower look amazing in a variegated yarn?
Granny Stitch Crocheted Hat
Can you believe a Christmas ornament inspired this hat? Julie had the inspiration when she pulled out these three colors and thought of an ornament she had crocheted similar to this!
Side Buttoned Band Hat
Jenni upgrades a standard crocheted hat by adding a band and a button. I’m kind of obsessed with large buttons, and I feel like you could either make yours the same color or do a contrasting button for a little bit of flair!
Mod Lace Beanie
This hat works perfectly when the weather isn’t quite so cold – and looks great, too. You will have to register with Lion Brand to get the free pattern, but they have an enormous library (and it’s still free).
Bead Stitch Crocheted Hat
I love that Erica used one color yarn for this hat. It makes it easier to see the variety of stitches. And that faux fur pom tops it off perfectly!
Puff Stitch with Bow
A regular crocheted beret gets an upgrade with a super cute bow on one side. I’m all about the bow of course . . . plus the pattern for the bow is separate, so you could really add it to any crochet hat pattern you like.
Messy Bun Crochet Hat
Don't hide your hair under your hat! With this messy bun hat you can keep your bun (or ponytail in tact while you keep your head warm.
Striped Slouch Hat
I love the contrasting stripes on this crocheted hat – and it’s totally in my color palette. I need a slouchy kind of hat because this girl has an enormous noggin! :0 There’s even a pattern for matching arm warmers.
Phannie Beret
This hat is easy to make, and would look great in both a solid color or a patterned yarn. It’s a great crocheted hat for those with long(er) hair.
Criss Cross Beanie
The stitching used on this hat looks more complicated than it actually is. In fact, it is a beginner-friendly pattern! You can make it without the sparkly applique, or add a fun piece of your own.
Celtic Dream Beanie
Okay, so you need a bit of crocheting skill for this hat, but it’s still not that hard. It just takes a bit of practice, and the resulting texture is super cool!
Peaked Cap Crochet Hat Pattern
This hat has the best of everything – a brim, the puff stitch and a cute buttoned flap on the side. I love it!
Brimmed Cap
This hat looks perfect for going to the coffee shop on a crisp morning. You don’t need anything extra besides the yarn to create the brim! You will have to register with Lion Brand to get the free pattern, but they have an enormous library (and it’s still free).
Now that you’ve seen my picks, let me know which of these easy crochet hat patterns is your fave in the comments!
Ready for more? If you love crochet, take a peek at our free fall crochet patterns. And if you happen to be a knitter . . . we’ve got free patterns for knitted hats. Enjoy!
Sara Blasingame
Friday 9th of September 2022
I like #19 it is so cool looking.
Amy
Sunday 11th of September 2022
I agree, very unique! :D
Kelli
Sunday 14th of August 2022
I love number 2 but I don't know how to do the top would it be a granny square be email me @fowlerhouse473@gmail.com . I work in a cooler so I wear them a lot but need news
Marta
Thursday 26th of December 2019
Krásne modely.
S Goldsberry
Tuesday 25th of November 2014
I love these patterns, do you know where I might find them?
Amy Anderson
Thursday 27th of November 2014
Hi there! Top right corner, click through the slideshow using the blue arrows - you'll see each project with a link to the pattern!
Trea Reading
Tuesday 18th of March 2014
Knit and crochet items