How to Crochet a Hat From a Pattern

Crocheting is a fairly free-form art. The stitches are not confined to needles, as is the case with knitting. Mistakes are easily corrected, making crochet a forgiving craft. Nearly any clothing item can be crocheted with relative ease, though the rigid nature of crochet stitches lend themselves naturally to warm, winter hats. A hat is a relatively simple project, suitable for beginning crocheters, including those who have never worked from a pattern before. While patterns may seem intimidating at first, they become easier to read and follow with practice.

Things You'll Need

• Yarn
• Crochet hook
• Hat pattern

Instructions

1. Learn the terms and abbreviations used in crochet patterns. Commonly used abbreviations include "ch" indicating a chain stitch, "sc" indicating a single crochet stitch, "hdc" indicating a half-double crochet stitch, "dc" indicating a double crochet stitch, and "tr" indicating a triple crochet stitch.

2. Understand the basics of beginning a crochet piece and forming a chain stitch. A foundation of chain stitches is the basis for every crochet project.

3. Become comfortable holding a crochet hook and maneuvering the yarn. Before attempting any pattern, it is a good idea to test the yarn and hook size called for in that pattern to make sure you have the recommended number of stitches per inch, referred to as "gauge."

4. Choose a pattern based upon your preferences. An intricate, lacy hat is beautiful, but may not be suitable for a beginner. A simple, sturdy hat may look plain, but is ideal for those just beginning to crochet from patterns.

5. Follow the instructions given by the pattern, beginning with the number of chain stitches. Figure out if the pattern is worked in rounds or flat. A crochet hat worked in rounds will not need to be seamed after working it, as it will already form a hat-like shape.

6. Work the pattern as directed by the designer's instructions. Those who find abbreviations difficult may wish to work from a pattern that uses a chart filled with symbols instead. The symbols are decoded using a legend or key included with the pattern.

7. Write out the pattern abbreviations or symbols in a long-hand form that you can understand if you find the pattern difficult to follow.

8. Work even in the stitch formation the pattern calls for until such point that the pattern directs you to begin increasing or decreasing. Hats worked from the top down require increases, while hats worked from the bottom up require decreases.

9. Finish the hat according to the pattern's instructions. This often involves tying off the last stitch and weaving in a length of yarn to ensure the project doesn't unravel.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't be afraid to try out more than one pattern when attempting to crochet a hat from a pattern. Some patterns are more difficult than others.

• If you need extra help, seek out a local specialty yarn store. Employees there are able to direct you in selecting a pattern, tools and yarn. Most yarn store employees are also able to help crocheters understand the basics of the craft and help if a pattern poses a particular problem.

References

• "Crochet Patterns for Dummies;" Susan Brittain; 2007
• "Crochet Basics: All You Need to Know to Get Hooked on Crochet;" Jan Eaton; 2003
• "Vogue Knitting on the Go! Crochet Basics;" Trisha Malcom; 2005
• " The Crochet Answer Book: Solutions to Every Problem You'll Ever Face;" Edie Eckman; 2005
• "Crocheting for Dummies;" Karen Manthey, Susan Brittain, Julie Holetz; 2010

Resources

• Crochet 'N' More: Crochet Basics
• Crochet Pattern Central
• Annie's Attic: Learn to Read Crochet Patterns