The Primrose and Proper crochet slouch hat pattern is stylish and versatile, and makes a beautiful addition to your winter wardrobe. I’ve included notes on how to make this hat for everyone from toddlers to adults. Find the free crochet pattern instructions below, or purchase a print-optimized, ad-free PDF by clicking here.
Click here to add this to your Ravelry queue!
It’s finally here! I know many of you have been wanting a hat to match my wildly popular Primrose and Proper Super Scarf crochet pattern, and while I was going to hold off and release this free crochet pattern in November to mark my one year official foray into pattern design, some things are just too good to make you wait any longer.
Did you know I have other designs featuring the same stitch pattern?:
- Primrose and Proper Fingerless Gloves
- Primrose and Proper Cowl
- Primrose and Proper Super Scarf
- Primrose and Proper Triangle Shawl
This pattern includes the same easy crochet stitches as the scarf, so if you’re familiar with single crochet, half double crochet, and double crochet you’ll have no problem with this hat. The brim is made using front and back post stitches to give it some added texture.
I’ve included some extra embellishments as well (of course–it wouldn’t be my design if it didn’t!), such as the ruffle that runs along the side of the hat, and an optional clip on flower. However, if you are not a fan of extra ruffles, I’ve also included information on how to make the hat so that part is not included. It does start out differently, so keep scrolling past the first part of the pattern until you get to the part that says “if you DON’T want a ruffle…”
Because this is made with worsted weight yarn, it works up within several hours and is good for those who are comfortable with “easy” level patterns, but want to stretch their skills a little further. I did release a paid version of the Primrose and Proper Slouch hat earlier this year that is different from this free pattern, and is also a slightly more complex project. You can find it on Ravelry, if you are interested.
Let’s get this party, err…pattern, started, shall we?
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. When you purchase something using these links a small amount of the sales price goes to me. You do not pay any extra for the item you purchase.
Difficulty:
Easy
Materials Needed:
5.5mm (I) hook, or hook needed to obtain gauge
150-175 yards #4 worsted weight Red Heart Super Saver in “Aran”, or color of your choice
yarn needle
scissors
Flower hair clip (Optional)
Stitches Used:
ch = chain
sl st = slip stitch
sc = single crochet
hdc = half double crochet
dc = double crochet
FPhdc = front post half double crochet
BPhdc = back post half double crochet
Additional Terms
hdc in the 3rd loop: work all stitches for the round in the 3rd loop of the hdc from previous round. Instructions: Look at the top of the stitch, and locate the sideways “V”, bend the stitch to look at the back*, and you should see another “V”. You’ll be working into the back loop of that “V”, this is called the 3rd loop. *When working in rows this 3rd loop will appear to be at the front instead of the back of the stitch.
Gauge:
14 stitches in 4″
Measurements:
Adult: 10″ wide by 10 1/2″ tall
Additional Notes:
-ch-2, and ch 3 at beginning of row counts as a stitch
-mark first and last st of row if you find your project is taking off diagonally so you don’t miss those stitches. That is what causes the pattern to distort.
-It is possible to make this hat smaller or larger by omitting or adding repeats of rows 5-8. When it comes to adding the band, you may also adjust it smaller or larger, but be sure you sc around the edge in multiples of 4.
-If you want to make a toddler size, try a starting chain of 25, and work 44 stitches around for the band.
-It may be necessary to adjust your hook to get this to fit properly. Each row 5-8 repeat should add about 2 more inches to your hat.
-I’ve also included information on how to make the hat without a ruffle going up the side. It does start out differently, so keep scrolling past the first part of the pattern until you get to the part that says “If you DON’T want a ruffle…”
Primrose and Proper Slouch Hat Pattern (US Terms):
Ch 28 (kids) , 34 (adults),
Row 1: hdc in 3rd ch from hook (counts as first hdc), hdc in each st across. (27, 33)
Rows 2-3: ch 2, (counts as first hdc), turn, hdc in each st across. (27, 33)
Row 4: ch 2 (counts as first hdc), turn, working in 3rd loop of had, hdc in each remaining 3rd loop. Note: final hdc of row is worked in top of ch-2 from prev row. (27, 33)
Row 5: ch 2 (counts as first hdc), turn, (sc, ch 2, sc) in 2nd st, *sk 2 sts, (sc, ch 2, sc) in next; repeat from * across, Note: final hdc of row is worked in top of ch-2 from prev row. (9 “bumps”, 11 “bumps”)
Row 6: ch 3 (counts as first dc), turn, 2 dc in first ch-2 sp, *3 dc in next ch 2-sp; repeat from * across, in the final ch 2-sp put 2 dc, dc in top of ch-2 from prev row. (27, 33)
Row 7: ch 2, turn (counts as first hdc), hdc in each st across. (27, 33)
Row 8: ch 2 (counts as first hdc), turn, working in 3rd loop of hdc, hdc in each remaining 3rd loop. Note: final hdc of row is worked in top of ch-2 from prev row. (27, 33)
Repeat rows 5-8 seven more times for child, or eight more times for adults, then repeat row 5 one more time.
Note: At this point, Adult size should measure at least 18″ long, and child size should measure at least 16.5″ long. The piece should be very stretchy, and wrap around your head comfortably. If you find either of these measurements are too tight, do one more repeat of rows 5-8, then do the row 5 repeat.
Fold the hat in half (make sure the ribs are sticking out!). Place the “bumps” from row 5 repeat over the top of the first hdc row, and sew together forming a tube.
Fasten off, and weave in ends.
(keep scrolling down for the hat band instructions)
If you DON’T want a ruffle up the side of the hat, follow these instructions instead:
Primrose and Proper Slouch Hat Pattern – no ruffle:
Ch 28 (kids), 34 (adults),
Row 1: hdc in 3rd ch from hook (counts as first hdc), hdc in each st across. (27, 33)
Row 2: ch 2 (counts as first hdc), turn, working in 3rd loop of had, hdc in each remaining 3rd loop. Note: final hdc of row is worked in top of ch-2 from prev row. (27, 33)
Row 3: ch 2 (counts as first hdc), turn, (sc, ch 2, sc) in 2nd st, *sk 2 sts, (sc, ch 2, sc) in next; repeat from * across, Note: final hdc of row is worked in top of ch-2 from prev row. (9 “bumps”, 11 “bumps”)
Row 4: ch 3 (counts as first dc), turn, 2 dc in first ch-2 sp, *3 dc in next ch 2-sp; repeat from * across, in the final ch 2-sp put 2 dc, dc in top of ch-2 from prev row. (27, 33)
Row 5: ch 2, turn (counts as first hdc), hdc in each st across. (27, 33)
Row 6: ch 2 (counts as first hdc), turn, working in 3rd loop of hdc, hdc in each st across. Note: final hdc of row is worked in top of ch-2 from prev row. (27, 33)
Repeat rows 3-6 eight more times for child, and nine more times for adults, then continue with the rest of the pattern.
One of your edges of the tube should be flatter than the other. The flat edge is the one you will want to put the band on. The bumpier edge is the one you will want to sew shut in the next step.
Sewing the top of the hat shut:
Turn tube wrong side out. Sew around the bumpier edge with a running stitch, and cinch tightly shut.
Fasten off, and weave in ends.
Turn hat right side out.
Hat Band (both hat styles):
Round 1: Attach yarn to the bottom of the hat, evenly space 52 sc for an adult, and 48 sc for a child’s size around the hat (see “Additional Notes” section at the top for making this in other sizes). The band should be very stretchy. If it is snug, try going up a hook size. Join with sl st to first sc. (48, 52)
Round 2: ch 1, FPhdc around first st, FPhdc around next st, BPhdc around next two sts *FPhdc around next two sts, BPhdc around next two sts; repeat from * around, join with sl st to first FPhdc. (48, 52)
Rounds 3-4: ch 1, FPhdc around first st, FPhdc around next st, hdc in next two sts *FPhdc around next two sts, hdc in next two sts; repeat from * around, join with sl st to first FPhdc. (48, 52)
Fasten off, and weave in ends.
I would love to see a picture when you’re done, so please feel free to come by my Facebook group and show off your hat! Be sure to tag @kirstenhollowaydesigns when you share pictures of your finished slouch hat on Instagram, and use #primroseandproperslouchhat!
If you enjoyed this pattern or found it useful, why not share a link to this post with your friends?
You can also follow me on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and Ravelry for more crochet patterns.
Pattern Terms and Conditions:
You are welcome to share the link to this pattern, using one image of your choice, on your site, but please do not share the written patterns themselves, or use additional images. You do not have permission to use my images by themselves to create pinnable graphics for Pinterest, however they may be included in a roundup pin if there are 4 or more other patterns. If you sell finished items online, please do not use my pictures for your listings. I’m positive that your work is of high enough quality for you to sell the finished piece. Have confidence in your abilities! <3 Thank you!
This pattern was made to be used by individuals, and small business crocheters alike. Selling your finished pieces in boutiques, at farmer’s markets, craft shows, and other local events is encouraged! The only thing I require is that this pattern not be used commercially to produce hundreds of thousands of copies.
Charme says
I can’t find the instruction for the ruffle? Also is the crown sewn like a straight line (making the beanie rectangular shaped) or is it gathered to a point? Thanks!
Kirsten says
The directions are in the first section before the instructions for making a hat without a ruffle. You can find them below Row 8. There are also instructions further down for cinching the top of the hat shut. They are just before the instructions for adding a hat band. 😊 I hope that helps!
Charme says
I love the primrose stitch, I made the Primrose scarf the past winter, thank you for creating and sharing these beautiful patterns! Since I am using DK weight yarn, I need to size up, is there a formula for sizing up from 34 stitches?
Kirsten says
You would need to create a gauge swatch (the pattern is crocheted in multiples of 3+1) and then use your gauge swatch to calculate how many stitches you would need to complete the hat in the height you want. 😊
Miri says
Hi! I need some clarification on the instructions.
When I’m finishing the hat, Do I put the running stitch in first, then scrunch, then sew up the other side BEFORE I work on the bottom band OR running stitch, scrunch up, bottom band THEN sew up the other side?
Thank you!
Kirsten says
Right under the section of the pattern where it talks about making the hat with no ruffle i have put in the order of to do things. I’ll share them here too: Sew the side up first, then cinch the top, then add the band.
Melinda Murphree says
I don’t know what I’m doing but my rectangle is lower on one side Bottom and higher on opposite side top. I can’t figure it out. But this pattern is beautiful. Thank you
Kirsten says
It’s because you are not working the first or last stitch of the row in the right spot. Use stitch markers to mark the ch-2 or ch-3 at the beginning, as well as the stitches at the end of the rows and you should have much better results. You are always welcome to join my Facebook group and share pictures or ask questions there too. 🙂
Robin Hendrickson says
Help! I’ve started over several times and it’s not working. I chain 34 then hdc in 3rd ch from hook but I end up with only 32 hdc across. Is the first hdc supposed to be in 2nd ch from hook or do I ch 35? I’ve tried both and neither look correct. I doooo want to make this set!
Kirsten says
Stick with 34 chains. The 2 chains you skip at the beginning of the row count as that missing stitch. 🙂
Brian says
Thanks so much for explaing Kirsten I plan on making this entire set and appreciate your patterns!!!
Kirsten says
You’re very welcome! 🙂
Brian says
I am confused on row 5, no matter how I count or what I do I cannot get 33 stitches, I made sure the row below was 33 stitches, I counted each sc ch2 sc as 3 stitches. Can you please help?
Kirsten says
As long as you have 11 ch-2 loops to work the next row into you should be ok. 🙂 I will update the pattern to show how many ch-2 loops there should be and hopefully that makes things less confusing.
When you complete the number of rows required for making the hat, you will sew the top and bottom edges together using a long tail of yarn. I used the whip stitch on mine. The sides of the piece actually become the top and bottom of the hat after that.
I hope that helps!
Brian says
That helps tremendously. One more thing how do I align the sides for sewing I have the row 5 repeat as my last row, do I match that to the foundation chain? Thanks!!!
Kirsten says
I’m glad to hear that! If you end on the repeat the pattern calls for then you should be able to sew the tube together evenly. The beginning and ending stitch counts should be 33. ???? I sometimes find it helpful to “pin” the ends together temporarily with stitch markers and then go about sewing.
Brian says
Sorry to be a pain but I don’t understand the following (I’m newer to this and hate to keep bothering you.
“Place the “bumps” from row 5 repeat over the top of the first hdc row, and sew together forming a tube.”
It says over the top of first hdc row… Sorry I’m so lost…
Kirsten says
If you are making it with the ruffle then yes, you will place the end that has the bumps over the top of the beginning stitches and sew it together in over-under fashion. (Most people seem to be making this hat without the ruffle, so thank you for bringing up the “bumps”.) ???? Either way your stitch counts should match up because, ideally, you’ll be doing the sewing on row “8” of your final repeat, not on the row 5 “bumps” themselves.
Alexis says
Kristen thank you so much for the patterns. I am finishing the hat now, but made 2 scarves and the fingerless gloves! I am coming back to crocheting as an adult from learning as a child from my grandma. The patterns were easy to work once I figured them out, lol.
Kirsten says
You’re welcome, Alexis! I’m glad you have been enjoying them all! 😀
Marilyn says
Thank you for sharing this pattern. I’m relatively new to crochet and so excited as I’ve watched it all come together-I really didn’t get it at first but as I went on it was an aha moment. I love the pattern and am hoping you might help me with this. I’d like to use this row pattern to make a blanket, but I am not sure what multiples of stitches to begin with. This is probably a simple thing for some to figure out, but I’m clueless. Thank you again for your beautiful designs.
Kirsten says
Hi Marilyn,I’m glad you have been having fun on your crochet journey so far!
You can find instructions for turning the matching scarf pattern into an afghan, here: https://kirstenhollowaydesigns.com/2016/11/pattern-primrose-and-proper-super-scarf.html
I plan on releasing an official afghan pattern in the next few weeks, but for now hopefully the additional notes in the scarf pattern help!
Sharon says
Loved it made it in Caron’s white scarf and hat And just started another one in impeccable purple and homespun It’s an Excellent Pattern in 2 colors
Thank you
Kirsten says
You’re welcome! I’m glad you’re enjoying it!
Janice Kelly says
Kirsten,
Don’t know what I’m doing wrong. I participated in your CAL for the scarf. Tried to make this, but my piece didn’t end up “triangular” – more of a parallelogram! Started it over several times, and can’t figure out the problem. I had no issues with the same pattern in the scarf. The hat will have to be completed and gifted at another time! It’s lovely….and I see the other projects on Ravelry, so I guess I’m the only one with issues! (and I am a long-time crocheter!)
Kirsten says
Hi Janice,
I’m sorry you’re having trouble. The hat should be rectangular before you sew the side up–not triangular, then you will sew one end of the resulting “tube” to close it off for the top, and attach the brim to the other end. I hope that helps!
Janice Kelly says
Oops, I meant rectangular……I’ll blame that blunder on lack of sleep? I’m going to give it another shot after the holidays……I started it over a few times; was trying to get it done to include with the scarf for a gift, but the pressure to get it done and mailed was too stressful. I did have a tube, but it was sort of skewed, so I had to rip it out,
Kirsten says
That’s ok! I know things are crazy this time of year! Good luck for next time you try!
Yvonne Owens says
Hi Kirsten,
I’m working on this hat and I’m a little confused by row 4. I’m wondering if I chain any between the HDC. If I just HDC in every third stitch across I end up with fewer stitches. I’m baffled ?.
Yvonne
Kirsten says
Hi Yvonne, You will be working in the 3rd loop of each hdc, not every 3rd stitch. 🙂 It will be at the back of the stitch instead of on top (like the front loop or back loop are). If you go to my facebook page https://www.facebook.com/kirstenhollowaydesigns and look in the videos section, you can see me demonstrate it. I hope that helps!
Yvonne Owens says
Thanks! That helps a lot!
Michelle says
I first want to say that I love your passion to create and all the lively patterns you share. This is actually the first slouchy hat I’m making, and I don’t quite understand if the top of “the tube” is closed or left open (not sure if I sew 3 sides closed or just the two to make the tube). I would appreciate any assistance you could provide!!
Kirsten says
Hi Michelle,
After you sew up the side of the hat, you will do a running stitch around the top of the top (the instructions should tell you which end the top is) and cinch it shut. Make sure you turn the hat wrong-side out when you do this, otherwise you’ll have a funny looking bump where you cinched the opening. After turning the hat right side out again, put the band around the raw edge at the bottom. So basically, you start out be creating a tube when you sew the side of the hat together, then you cinch the top, then add the band around the bottom of the tube.
I’m glad you’re enjoying my designs, and hope that this description helps! 🙂
Michelle says
It does thank you so much! You are so amazing, and yes. I have definitely been enjoying everything you create. I admire your gift. It is one thing to be able to follow a pattern to cravate something beautiful, but it’s something completely different to create the work and pattern out of your imagination
Kirsten says
Awww, thank you! It is an honor to create, and inspire others. <3
Kristin says
The instructions for the free hat pattern don’t say anything about sewing the top with a running stitch. As written it’s just a tube. Very confusing.
Kirsten says
I’m sorry you missed the instructions that call for the running stitch and cinch. They are near the bottom of the instructions-just before the “band” section. I hope that helps!
Linda says
Beautiful hat. Thank you so much for sharing!
Can you please explain: pattern states Ch 28, 34. Why are there two numbers? Is this for different sizes?
Kirsten says
You’re welcome, Linda! Yes, that is what the two numbers are for. 🙂
Marly King says
Thank you I will start it this p,m.
Kirsten says
You’re welcome! Have fun! 🙂
Marly King says
What are the two sizes?
Kirsten says
This hat comes in child and adult sizes, Marly.
Judy says
I love, love, love your patterns and style!!!! Thank you for sharing with us!
Kirsten says
Aww, thank you, Judy! I’m so glad you’ve been enjoying my designs! 🙂
Deb says
Thank you for sharing your gift to create. The hat is really pretty, appreciate your time and generosity.
Kirsten says
You’re welcome! I’m glad you like it! 😀
Joyce says
Love the pattern can not wait to Jake it
Kirsten says
Thank you, Joyce! 🙂
Esther says
This hat is so beautiful! I love your feminine style! So much wonderful detail!
Kirsten says
Thank you, Esther! I’m glad you’re enjoying my designs!
Frances says
U all said these all projects r on u tube but so far i jave not seen any of the ones I picked to look at disappointed
Kirsten says
I’m sorry Frances. I don’t know where you read that information. I don’t have any YouTube videos up yet, however, I have a few crochet-a-longs that contain extra pictures, to help those who struggle with written patterns. You can find those under the Crochet-A-Longs menu. 🙂