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.

I’ve been knitting for almost 30 years now. I might be dating myself, but I’ll just tell you – I learned when I was 15 years old! My mom taught me to cast on and I learned the rest.
I practiced on scarves, but once I was done with large, flat rectangles, I moved on to hats. And with the way the weather has been around the country lately, knitting a hat is just the thing to do these days.
Not only do they keep your head warm, but they make great gifts. Use a chunky yarn and they work up that much more quickly. If you want some free patterns for knitted hats, I’ve gathered over 20 I really love. Scroll down to see them!
Free Knitted Hat Patterns
From beginner to advanced level knitting, you are sure to find your next project in this list of 20+ free knitted hat patterns.
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.
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.
Margaux Striped Beret
This classic French beret in modern single stripes will transport you to Le Marais on a crisp fall day!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Simple Slouchy Beret
This slouchy beret consists of a lace pattern that is easy to memorize which makes it easy to quickly complete!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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"!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Which of these free knitted hat 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