How to crochet a cap or hat step by step as a beginner

 

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your very own crocheted cap or hat effortlessly.

Crocheting a cap can be a fun and rewarding project for both beginners and experienced crocheters. In this tutorial, we would work you through the process of making a good looking crochet cap even though you are a complete beginner. Remember to check out our previous lession-top crocheting guide

Materials Needed for crocheting a cap

You would need these equipments in place before getting started:

1. Yarn of your choice (recommended worsted weight)

2. Crochet hook size H/8 (5.0 mm)

3. Scissors

4. Tapestry needle

5. Stitch counter

step by step guide for crocheting a cap or hat as a beginner

The above video is a tutorial for crocheting a hat/cap using simple patterns

Step 1: Start with a slip knot

Make a slip knot on the crochet hook.

Step 2: Chain stitches

Chain 4 stitches. Slip stitch to the first chain stitch to create a ring.

Step 3: Make the base of the cap

Round 1: Chain 3 stitches (counts as the first double crochet stitch), then double crochet 11 times into the ring. Slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain 3 stitch to join the round. (12 stitches)

Round 2: Chain 3 stitches (counts as the first double crochet stitch), then double crochet once into the same stitch as the chain. Double crochet twice into each stitch around. Slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain 3 stitch to join the round. (24 stitches)

Step 4: Increase the diameter of the cap

Round 3: Chain 3 stitches (counts as the first double crochet stitch), then double crochet once into the same stitch as the chain. Double crochet once into the next stitch, then double crochet twice into the following stitch. Repeat from * to * around. Slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain 3 stitch to join the round. (36 stitches)

Round 4: Chain 3 stitches (counts as the first double crochet stitch), then double crochet once into the same stitch as the chain. Double crochet once into each of the next two stitches, then double crochet twice into the following stitch. Repeat from * to * around. Slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain 3 stitch to join the round. (48 stitches)

Step 5: Work in the body of the cap

Round 5: Chain 3 stitches (counts as the first double crochet stitch), then double crochet once into the same stitch as the chain. Double crochet once into each of the next three stitches, then double crochet twice into the following stitch. Repeat from * to * around. Slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain 3 stitch to join the round. (60 stitches)

Round 6-14: Chain 3 stitches (counts as the first double crochet stitch), then double crochet once into each stitch around. Slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain 3 stitch to join the round. (60 stitches)

Step 6: Decrease to close the cap

Round 15: Chain 1 stitch (counts as the first single crochet stitch), then single crochet once into the same stitch as the chain. Single crochet once into each of the next 8 stitches, then single crochet 2 stitches together. Repeat from * to * around. 

Slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain 1 stitch to join the round. (54 stitches)

Round 16: Chain 1 stitch (counts as the first single crochet stitch), then single crochet once into the same stitch as the chain. Single crochet once into each of the next 7 stitches, then single crochet 2 stitches together.

 Repeat from * to * around. Slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain 1 stitch to join the round. (48 stitches)

Round 17: Chain 1 stitch (counts as the first single crochet stitch), then single crochet once into the same stitch as the chain. Single crochet once into each of the next 6 stitches, then single crochet 2 stitches together.

Slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain 1 stitch to join the round. (42 stitches)

Round 18: Chain 1 stitch (counts as the first single crochet stitch), then single crochet once into the same stitch as the chain. Single crochet once into each of the next 5 stitches, then single crochet 2 stitches together. Repeat from * to * around. Slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain 1 stitch to join the round. (36 stitches)

Round 19: Chain 1 stitch (counts as the first single crochet stitch), then single crochet once into the same stitch as the chain.

 Single crochet once into each of the next 4 stitches, then single crochet 2 stitches together. Repeat from * to * around. Slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain 1 stitch to join the round. (30 stitches)

Round 20: Chain 1 stitch (counts as the first single crochet stitch), then single crochet once into the same stitch as the chain. Single crochet once into each of the next 3 stitches, then single crochet 2 stitches together. Repeat from * to * around. Slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain 1 stitch to join the round. (24 stitches)

Round 21: Chain 1 stitch (counts as the first single crochet stitch), then single crochet once into the same stitch as the chain.

 Single crochet once into each of the next 2 stitches, then single crochet 2 stitches together. Repeat from * to * around. Slip stitch to the top of the beginning chain 1 stitch to join the round. (18 stitches)

Step 7: Finishing up your craft

Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail. Using a tapestry needle, weave the tail through the remaining stitches and pull tight to close the top of the cap. Fasten off and weave in any remaining ends.

Step 8: Optional: Add a pom-pom

To add a fun and playful touch to your crocheted cap, you can add a pom-pom on the top. Here's how:

How to add a pom-pom on your crochet cap or hat

Cut two cardboard circles, one larger and one smaller, with a hole in the center.

Hold the two circles together and start wrapping yarn around them.

Keep wrapping until the pom-pom is as full as you want it to be.

Cut the yarn around the edge of the circles.

Cut a piece of yarn and tie it tightly around the middle of the wrapped yarn, between the two cardboard circles.

Remove the cardboard circles and trim any uneven pieces of yarn.

Attach the pom-pom to the top of the cap using the same yarn you used to tie it.

Step 9: Try it on and enjoy!

Put on your new crocheted cap and enjoy the warmth and style it brings to your wardrobe. Show it off to your friends and family and be proud of your new handmade creation!

Step 10: Care Instructions 

To keep your crocheted cap looking great, it's important to care for it properly. Here are some care instructions to follow:

How to care for your crochet cap for longevity

1. Hand wash your cap in cool water with a gentle detergent.

2. Rinse the cap thoroughly and squeeze out excess water.

3. Lay the cap flat on a towel and reshape it as necessary.

4. Allow the cap to air dry completely before wearing or storing.

5. Avoid machine washing or drying your crocheted cap, as this can damage the yarn and cause the cap to lose its shape. With proper care, your crocheted cap should last for many winters to come.

Step 11: Customize or personalise your cap

Now that you have mastered the basic pattern, you can customize your cap to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas:

Add stripes: To add stripes to your cap, simply switch to a new color of yarn after a certain number of rows. You can create thin or thick stripes, or use a variegated yarn for a more complex look.

Embellish with buttons or beads: You can sew buttons or beads onto your cap to add some extra sparkle or texture.

Change the stitch pattern: Instead of using single crochet stitches, try using double crochet, half double crochet, or another stitch pattern. This can create a different texture or look to your cap.

Add ear flaps: To make your cap even cozier, you can add ear flaps to the sides. Simply crochet two triangular shapes and sew them onto the sides of the cap.

With these customization options, you can make your crocheted cap truly one-of-a-kind. Have fun experimenting and creating your own unique designs, that could even make it more attractive to customers if you were to sell them.