purlJam

# Classic Women's Beanie
**A beginner-friendly crochet beanie**

## Overview
A cozy, close-fitting beanie worked seamlessly from the top down in half double crochet. The dense hdc fabric is warm and cushy, while a simple back-loop-only brim adds a subtle ribbed look. Perfect first hat project!

**Skill Level:** Beginner
**Size:** Adult Medium (head circumference 21–22" / 53–56 cm)
**Finished Measurements:** ~22" (56 cm) circumference, unstretched; 8.5" (21.5 cm) tall

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## Materials

- **Yarn:** Worsted weight (#4), ~180–220 yards (165–200 m)
  - Suggested: smooth wool or wool-blend for warmth and stitch definition
- **Hook:** US I-9 (5.5 mm)
- **Notions:**
  - Stitch marker (for beginning of round)
  - Yarn needle (for weaving in ends)
  - Measuring tape
  - Scissors
  - Optional: pompom maker or 3–4" cardboard circles

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## Gauge

**13 hdc × 10 rounds = 4" (10 cm)** in half double crochet, worked in joined rounds.
Always check gauge — hat fit depends on it!

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## Abbreviations (US Terms)

- **ch** – chain
- **st(s)** – stitch(es)
- **sl st** – slip stitch
- **hdc** – half double crochet
- **hdc2** – 2 hdc in same stitch (increase)
- **BLO** – back loop only
- **MR** – magic ring
- **rnd** – round

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## Pattern Notes

- Worked top-down in **joined rounds**. Do not turn.
- **Ch 2 at the start of each round does NOT count as a stitch.** Work the first hdc into the same stitch as the join.
- Join each round with a sl st into the first hdc of that round.
- Place a stitch marker in the first st of each round and move up as you go.

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## CROWN

**Rnd 1:** Make a magic ring. Ch 2 (does not count), work 12 hdc into ring. Pull ring tight. Join with sl st to first hdc. **[12 sts]**

**Rnd 2:** Ch 2, hdc2 in each st around. Join. **[24 sts]**
*Check: 12 × 2 = 24 ✓*

**Rnd 3:** Ch 2, *1 hdc in next st, hdc2 in next st*; repeat from * around. Join. **[36 sts]**
*Check: 24 + 12 increases = 36 ✓*

**Rnd 4:** Ch 2, *1 hdc in next 2 sts, hdc2 in next st*; repeat from * around. Join. **[48 sts]**
*Check: 36 + 12 increases = 48 ✓*

**Rnd 5:** Ch 2, *1 hdc in next 3 sts, hdc2 in next st*; repeat from * around. Join. **[60 sts]**
*Check: 48 + 12 increases = 60 ✓*

**Rnd 6:** Ch 2, *1 hdc in next 4 sts, hdc2 in next st*; repeat from * around. Join. **[72 sts]**
*Check: 60 + 12 increases = 72 ✓*

At this point the crown should measure approximately **7" (18 cm)** across and lie flat.

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## BODY (worked even)

**Rnds 7–22 (16 rounds):** Ch 2, 1 hdc in each st around. Join. **[72 sts]**

Continue until the piece measures approximately **7" (18 cm)** from the center of the crown to the working edge.

*Tip: Try the hat on (or fit over a balloon/bowl). The body should reach just above the ears before starting the brim.*

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## BRIM (BLO ribbed look)

**Rnds 23–26 (4 rounds):** Ch 2, working in **back loop only**, 1 hdc in each st around. Join. **[72 sts]**

Brim should measure approximately **1.5" (4 cm)**.

**Fasten off,** leaving a 6" tail.

*Total height: 7" body + 1.5" brim = 8.5" ✓*

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## FINISHING

1. Weave in all ends securely with yarn needle, working tails into the wrong side of the fabric.
2. Gently steam or wet-block the hat over a bowl or balloon to even out stitches.
3. Allow to dry completely.

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## Optional: Add a Pompom

1. Wrap worsted yarn around a 3–4" cardboard circle or pompom maker **80–100 times**.
2. Tie tightly through the center with a long strand of yarn.
3. Cut the loops along the outside edge.
4. Fluff and trim into a neat sphere (about 3.5" / 9 cm diameter).
5. Use the center tie strands to sew the pompom securely to the top of the crown. Knot inside the hat and weave in ends.

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## Variations

- **Slouchy version:** Add 4–6 extra rounds of body before starting the brim.
- **Fold-up brim:** Double the brim section to 3" (8 cm); wearer folds it up.
- **Stripes:** Change color every 2 rounds in the body for a fun striped beanie.
- **Warmer hat:** Hold yarn double (use larger hook, US K-10.5 / 6.5 mm) and work the smaller stitch count from the Teen/Small Adult size.

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## Size Adjustments (quick reference)

| Size | Final st count | Body height |
|---|---|---|
| Teen / Small Adult | 66 sts (stop after Rnd 5 + 1 increase rnd of 6,hdc2) | 7" |
| **Adult Medium (written)** | **72 sts** | **7"** |
| Adult Large | 78 sts (add Rnd 7: *5 hdc, hdc2*) | 7.5" |

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**Enjoy your new beanie!** Tag your finished projects and share — this simple pattern is endlessly customizable with color, pompoms, and brim styles. Happy crocheting! 🧶