If you’re looking to add a handmade touch to your summer wardrobe, these two free crochet hat patterns are just what you need! Whether you’re browsing your local market or soaking up the sun by the sea, a lightweight crochet sun hat is both stylish and practical. In today’s post, I’m excited to share two charming and beginner-friendly hat patterns that are perfect for summer.
Both designs are easy to follow, making them ideal for confident beginners and seasoned crocheters alike. They feature basic single crochet stitches, simple increase techniques, and straightforward construction, allowing you to craft beautifully shaped hats with ease.
The first pattern offers a sleek, minimalist look that’s great for everyday wear. The second design adds a bit more flair, with a wider brim and a decorative band for added personality. You can easily customize the size and color of each to match your personal style.
These hats are especially lovely when made with raffia, cotton thread, or paper yarn—all of which provide great structure while staying cool and breathable. They also make thoughtful handmade gifts for friends and family!
So grab your favorite yarn and hook—let’s get started! Scroll down for the full, step-by-step instructions for both hats.
Pattern 1: Minimalist Summer Hat
This simple and chic sun hat is perfect for daily outings. The structured design uses basic single crochet and is shaped with gradual increases, making it a great project for crocheters of all skill levels.
Crown (Top of the Hat)
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Round 1: Make a magic ring, and work 10 single crochets (sc) into the ring.
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Round 2: 2 sc in each stitch around (20 sts total).
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Round 3: 1 sc, 1 inc – repeat around.
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Round 4: 1 sc in each stitch (no increases).
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Round 5: 2 sc, 1 inc – repeat around.
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Round 6: 3 sc, 1 inc – repeat around.
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Round 7: 4 sc, 1 inc – repeat around.
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Round 8: 5 sc, 1 inc – repeat around.
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Round 9: 6 sc, 1 inc – repeat around.
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Round 10: 7 sc, 1 inc – repeat around.
Continue increasing until the crown reaches a diameter of 15–16 cm.
Sides (Body of the Hat)
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Crochet 1 sc in each stitch (no increases) until the body measures 10 cm in height.
Brim
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Round 1: 1 sc, 1 inc – repeat around.
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Round 2: 1 sc in each stitch.
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Round 3: 3 sc, 1 inc – repeat around.
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Rounds 4–7: 1 sc in each stitch.
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Round 8: 5 sc, 1 inc – repeat around.
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Rounds 9–10: 1 sc in each stitch.
Optional: Insert a strand of wire or raffia cord around the final round of the brim for extra structure.
Pattern 2: Wide Brim Hat with Decorative Band
This second design features a larger brim for maximum sun protection and a slightly more detailed shaping process. It’s still simple to crochet and has a lovely, flattering shape.
Top of the Hat
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Round 1: Create a magic ring and crochet 6 sc.
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Round 2: Increase in every stitch (12 sts).
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Round 3: 1 sc, 1 inc – repeat (18 sts).
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Round 4: 2 sc, 1 inc – repeat (24 sts).
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Round 5: 3 sc, 1 inc – repeat (30 sts).
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Round 6: 4 sc, 1 inc – repeat (36 sts).
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Continue increasing 6 stitches per round:
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5 sc, 1 inc
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6 sc, 1 inc
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7 sc, 1 inc
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1 round without increase
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8 sc, 1 inc
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1 round without increase
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9 sc, 1 inc
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10 sc, 1 inc
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1 round without increase
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11 sc, 1 inc
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1 round without increase
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12 sc, 1 inc
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1 round without increase
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13 sc, 1 inc
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1 round without increase
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Continue without increasing until you’ve completed round 33 and reached approximately 90 stitches total.
Brim
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Round 1: 9 sc, 1 inc – repeat (adds 10 sts).
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Round 2: 1 sc in each stitch.
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Round 3: 10 sc, 1 inc – repeat.
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Round 4: 11 sc, 1 inc – repeat.
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Round 5: 12 sc, 1 inc – repeat.
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Round 6: 1 sc in each stitch.
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Round 7: 13 sc, 1 inc – repeat.
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Continue without increases until you reach 140 stitches total.
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Rounds 9–10: 1 sc in each stitch.
Finish with a tight round of single crochet. For extra structure, you can add a flexible wire or raffia cord to the brim as you crochet the last round.
Customization Tips
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Use raffia, paper yarn, or natural cotton for a lightweight and structured hat.
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Add flair with ribbon, wooden beads, or crocheted flowers.
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Adjust the crown or brim size to fit your personal style.
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Block your finished hat to set the shape and create a crisp look.
These free crochet hat patterns are a wonderful way to stay creative this season—and sun-safe too! Whether you’re making one for yourself or crafting a few as summer gifts, they’re sure to be a hit.
Don’t forget to share your creations using #MyCrochetHatStyle so I can see your beautiful makes!
Happy crocheting! 🧶🌞
