Learning how to make a hat is one of the basics of knitting! Here are 20+ free knitted hat patterns to get you started – and to keep your head warm.
Hello, fellow yarn enthusiasts! Let’s take a stroll down memory lane to when I first picked up those knitting needles – yep, I was a bright-eyed 15-year-old under my mom’s tutelage.
Fast forward 30 years, and here I am, still in love with the click-clack of needles and the magic they weave. Ah, the memories of those initial scarf projects – the never-ending rectangles that seemed to stretch into infinity!
But as the chilly winds started to blow and everyone around began to wrap up, I found my true knitting calling: hats!
And honestly, in these unpredictable weather times, is there anything more satisfying than crafting a snug, stylish hat?
They’re quick to make (especially with some chunky yarn – talk about satisfying!), incredibly practical, and, oh, the perfect gift for pretty much anyone. Who doesn’t love a hand-knitted hat?
So, in the spirit of spreading the warmth (literally), I’ve scoured the knitting realm to bring you not 10, not 15, but over 30 free knitted hat patterns that I absolutely adore.
Whether you’re a knitting newbie or a seasoned pro, there’s something here for everyone.
From slouchy beanies that scream ‘effortlessly cool’ to cute pom-pom topped numbers that make you go ‘aww,’ these patterns are your ticket to hat heaven.
Plus, they’re a great way to play around with colors and textures. Imagine the possibilities!
Ready to dive into a world of cozy, stylish headwear? Grab your favorite yarn, those trusty needles, and let’s get knitting.
Scroll down to discover a treasure trove of knitted hat patterns that are sure to keep your needles busy and your head (and heart) warm this season.
Chunky Ear Flap Hat
If you live in a really cold area, this might be the perfect knitted hat pattern for you – the ear flaps will keep you extra warm.
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Acorn Hat
This is a beginner knitting project that uses bulky yarn to create a super cute acorn inspired hat! With such an endearing pattern, this one is definitely great to share among friends.
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Margaux Striped Beret
This classic French beret in modern single stripes will transport you to Le Marais on a crisp fall day!
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Cable and Eyelet Ponytail Hat
Delicate cables and eyelets come together in this elegant knitting pattern! This hat has a hole for your ponytail, and was inspired by Hermione's hat in Harry Potter.
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Honeycomb Knitted Hat
If you're looking for free knitted hat patterns with cables, you'll like this honeycomb hat. It features a honeycomb design that blends into a flower shape at the top.
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Simple Cables Hat Pattern
Are you one of those confident knitters who tackles new techniques with ease, but admits to being afraid of cables? This hat was designed with you in mind – it is a great introduction to cables. There are not too many of them, so there will be plenty of relaxing knitting to enjoy.
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Moose Fair Isle Hat
I’ve always wanted to try fair isle, and I think this knitted hat is the perfect pattern to do it with. The cute moose are wearing scarves of their own!
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Bicolor Brioche Beanie
This knitted ribbed beanie would look great in any two contrasting colors! I love the way it looks with the cuff turned up.
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Simple Slouchy Beret
This slouchy beret consists of a lace pattern that is easy to memorize which makes it easy to quickly complete!
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Finger Knit Beanie
Finger knitting is a great way to start knitting. That is why this hat is a great project for beginners or kids.
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Glacier Peak
This basic hat has a fun colorwork pattern to jazz it up. It will keep your head toasty, whether you are hitting the slopes or simply taking a walk in a winter wonderland.
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Berroco Dots Knitted Hat
This dot pattern would work well for a matching scarf or even as a sweater detail. The hat is knit seamlessly from the brim to the crown.
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Basic Beanie
This is a good starter knitting project since it easy and can be done in about two hours. Make colorful stripes or shades of one color – whatever you like!
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Nordic Flake Free Knitted Hat Pattern
If you like Nordic inspired free knitted hat patterns, you're going to love this one. This warm hat is perfect for those snowy days with its snowflake motif!
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Ridges Hat
I really like the ridges on this hat! It looks really nice with the variegated yarn. It is a simple project that creates a satisfyingly squishy and stretchy hat that will keep you warm on those cold days.
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Messy Bun Hat
Don't want to take out your messy bun? This knitted hat is for you! It covers more than a headband so it keeps you warmer.
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Simple Ribbed
If you want a simple ribbed hat that works up quickly, this is your pattern. The accordion-like mistake ribbing is stretchy and snuggly.
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Spiral Rib Cap Knitted Pattern
I like how this cap seems to swirl around your head. Plus, since it doesn't have a cuff, it won't give you "hat head"!
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Cable Beanie
This cable beanie was inspired by a fisherman beanie so it can be worn rolled up or you can keep it down so it covers your ears.
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Moon Shadow Cloche
This stylish cloche hat is knitted in two pieces. The accessory is knit in the round from the bottom up, and then the band is then attached to the hat.
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Laura
The cabled band really stands out on this hat since the remaining part of the hat is completed in a more visually simple garter stitch.
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Newsboy Cap
If you want a knitted hat but the added benefit of a cute brim, this is your pattern. Its gently variegated colors create a smooth transition from one to another – with a strand of slubby silk adding interest in the form of a subtle tweedy look.
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Ear Hats Knitted Pattern
Fun and colorful free knitted hat patterns are my favorite! This awesome pattern gives you everything you need in a silly hat – including stripes and ears. You can knit them for the entire family!
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Which of these easy hat knitting patterns is your favorite? I’d love to know in the comments! I’d also love for you to check out the following posts:
Pat Schrie
Monday 15th of October 2018
I like to knit/crochet little hats for newborns. Has anyone got any cute patterns? I hate donating 50 hats that all look basically the same.
Carol Rutherford
Saturday 14th of June 2014
I love the baby patterns you give me the inspiration to get going again thanks a bundle Carol