by M. J. Joachim

Created on: March 10, 2009

Stylish Crocheted Hats

Crocheted hats are fun and easy to make. They can be made in any style you'd like, provided a few basic guidelines are followed. Measuring hats is extremely important. The stitches stretch and relax when blocked, so the hat will end up slightly larger than when it is actually being made. Hats work up quickly, and can be a showcase for fancy stitches and motifs.

Crochet hats are versatile for any season. Lacy hats are perfect for spring and summer. When making lacy hats, it is important to choose stitches that are open, or add chains between stitches. Hats made for warmth are great for autumn and winter. To make a warm hat, choose closed knit stitches that will not allow airflow.

Rectangular Foundation

One of the easiest ways to make a hat is to start by crocheting a rectangle. Hats can be designed with any stitch or combination of stitches preferred, and assembled from this common shape. The rectangle can be made vertically or horizontally.

Consider the measurements of the hat. The horizontal side should be long enough to fit around the circumference of the head, of the person who will wear it. The vertical side should be at least a few inches long, depending on the style of the hat being made. It is also a good idea to think about the width of the trim, or border to be added later.

Place the long side of the rectangle in front of you. Using an afghan crochet hook, join a new strand of yarn at the top end of the corner of your rectangle. Weave the adjoined yarn across the top edge, gathering and pulling tightly as you go. When you have finished gathering the top edge, change hooks to the one you used to crochet the rectangle. Do not finish off.

Match the short, right sides of the rectangle, keeping the wrong side of your fabric on the outside. Join the edge together with a single crochet stitch running down the seam. The rectangle will then form into a 3 dimensional pointed cylinder. It is important to stitch the seam tightly, so that it will not come unraveled with wear and care. Do not finish off.

Turn the hat right side out. Make a trim or border that accents the hat, and allows for it to fit snuggly on the person wearing it. For ascetics, join the rounds when creating the trim. Once your border is complete, finish off. Turn the hat wrong side out, and weave in your loose ends, toward the top of the hat.

Finishing Touches

When the hat is finished, steam it with your iron. Carefully shape it, as the stitches relax. Do not over steam it, as this will cause the hat to get too large. It will also diminish details in the work.

Embellishing hats is a lot of fun. Crochet a few small flowers, vegetables, even bugs, and sew them onto the hat. Add sequins, beads, or eyeballs if desired. Secure attachments tightly, so they will not fall off from wear and care. When motifs and trinkets are added, it is a good idea to recommend hand washing.

Crocheted hats can be made in only a few hours. They are a great weekend project, and usually thrill their recipients. The rectangular foundation allows for everyone to participate. Novices can use simple stitches, while those with more experience in crocheting can create intricate patterns and designs.

Each hat made is unique and special. Because hats are made so quickly, children can learn simple stitches, and have fun making homemade gifts. They will see the benefits of starting and finishing a new project. They will reap the rewards of their creativity. Crocheted hats are fun for everyone!

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