Free Ribbed Crochet Baby Beanie Pattern

This free ribbed crochet baby beanie pattern is an easy, beginner-friendly project worked flat using simple single crochet stitches. Available in five sizes from preemie through 12 months, this cozy baby hat is perfect for gifts, winter wear, and charity donations.

I originally designed this little beanie in 2016, when my son was only nine months old. It was one of my first wearable crochet designs, created during nap times and quiet evenings with love worked into every row.

Now he is a thriving 10-year-old, but this simple baby hat still holds a special place in my heart. I’ve kept some of the original photographs of him wearing it throughout this post. They may not reflect my current photography style, but they are part of this pattern’s story — and mine.

Whether you’re making a cozy hat for your own little one, creating a handmade baby shower gift, or crocheting for a NICU or charity, this beginner-friendly design is a sweet and practical project.

Why This Ribbed Baby Beanie Works

Beginner-friendly construction: The beanie is crocheted flat, so you don’t need to know how to work in the round.
Simple stitches: Basic single crochet stitches worked through the back loop create the stretchy ribbed texture.
Five baby sizes: Instructions are included for preemie, 0–3 months, 3–6 months, 6–9 months, and 9–12 months.
Easy to personalize: Use one color, create stripes, or add a pom-pom or crochet appliqué.
Perfect for gifting: This cozy little hat makes a thoughtful baby shower gift, charity project, or handmade addition to a baby’s winter wardrobe.

Build the Skills for This Beanie

New to crochet or need a quick refresher before beginning your beanie? Follow the learning path that best matches your experience.

Brand new to crochet?
Begin with the Crochet Beginner’s Guide to learn the essential tools, terminology, and foundational skills.

Need help starting the pattern?
Review How to Crochet a Foundation Chain before creating your starting chain.

Need a stitch refresher?
Visit the Single Crochet Tutorial for step-by-step instructions and helpful photographs.

Once you’re comfortable making a foundation chain and single crochet stitches, you’re ready to begin the Ribbed Baby Beanie.

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At a Glance

Sizes: Preemie, 0–3 months, 3–6 months, 6–9 months, and 9–12 months
Skill Level: Beginner
Construction: Worked flat in rows, seamed, and cinched closed at the top
Main stitch: Single crochet worked in the back loop
Recommended yarn: Soft #3 lightweight yarn
Optional yarn: Soft #4 worsted-weight yarn for a thicker, slightly larger beanie
Hook Sizes: I/9 (5.5 mm)
Gauge: 19 stitches × 27 rows = 4 inches
Optional details: Stripes, pom-pom, or crochet appliqué

Materials

To make your ribbed crochet baby beanie, you will need:

Yarn: Soft #3 lightweight/DK yarn
Yarn shown: Hobby Lobby Baby Bee Sweet Delight in Sand Castle
Crochet hook: 5.5 mm (I-9), or the size needed to obtain gauge
Tapestry needle: For seaming, closing the top, and weaving in ends
Scissors
Optional: Pom-pom or crochet appliqué

Yarn Used for the Neutral Beanie

The neutral sample was made with Hobby Lobby Baby Bee Sweet Delight in the Sand Castle colorway.

Yarn weight: #3 lightweight/DK
Fiber: 60% acrylic / 40% polyamide
Skein size: 4 oz / 118 g
Skein yardage: 377 yd / 345 m

One skein is more than enough to complete any of the five baby beanie sizes.

Choosing Your Yarn

The neutral and light-blue sample beanies were made with #3 lightweight yarn. The light-blue version uses Bernat Baby Sport, while the neutral version uses Baby Bee Sweet Delight. This yarn weight creates the light, soft fabric and sizing intended by the written pattern.

You may substitute a soft #4 worsted-weight yarn, such as Caron Simply Soft. The striped beanie shown on my son was made with Caron Simply Soft. Using a heavier yarn with the same hook and instructions will produce a thicker, slightly larger hat.

For the most accurate fit—particularly for the preemie and smaller baby sizes—use #3 lightweight yarn and match the stated gauge.

Yardage by Size

Size	Recommended Yardage
Preemie	55 yd / 51 m
0–3 months	110 yd / 101 m
3–6 months	135 yd / 124 m
6–9 months	160 yd / 147 m
9–12 months	175 yd / 161 m

Yardage estimates include approximately 10% extra. Actual yarn usage may vary depending on your tension, yarn choice, and any modifications.

Skill level

Level of Difficulty – Beginner

One taupe bar displaying white center to denote a crochet difficulty level of one - beginner

Gauge / Tension for the Ribbed Crochet Baby Beanie Pattern

Taking a few minutes to check your gauge before you begin will help ensure your Ribbed Crochet Baby Beanie fits as intended. Because this pattern includes several small baby sizes, matching the pattern gauge is especially important for achieving the correct height, circumference, and comfortable stretch.

Gauge

19 stitches × 27 rows = 4 inches (10 cm)

Measure gauge in single crochet worked through the back loop only using a 5.5 mm (I-9) crochet hook and #3 lightweight yarn.

The 19 stitches are measured along the height of the ribbed fabric, while the 27 rows are measured across the width.

Create a swatch measuring at least 4 × 4 inches before beginning. If your swatch is smaller than the stated gauge, try a larger hook. If your swatch is larger, try a smaller hook.

Matching gauge is particularly important for the preemie and smaller baby sizes. A difference in yarn weight or tension will affect the finished height, circumference, and overall fit of the beanie.

Crochet Abbreviations & Stitches Used

This Ribbed Crochet Baby Beanie Pattern is written in Standard US crochet terminology.

*Click on abbreviation names for tutorials

Stitch / es (st / sts)
Chain stitch (ch/chs)
Slip-stitch (slp-st)
Single crochet (sc)
Back Loop Only (BLO)
Need help with the basic stitches? Review my foundation chain tutorial or single crochet tutorial before beginning.
Special Stitches
Single Crochet in the Back Loop Only (sc BLO) – When looking at the top of a crochet stitch, you will see two loops. The loop closest to you is the front loop, and the loop farthest from you is the back loop.
To work a single crochet in the back loop only:
1. Insert your hook under the back loop of the next stitch.
2. Yarn over and pull up a loop. You should have two loops on your hook.
3..Yarn over again and pull through both loops.
4..Working into the back loop leaves the front loop unworked, creating the raised ridges that give this baby beanie its stretchy, ribbed texture.
In this pattern, work each stitch through the back loop only except for the final stitch of the row. Work the final stitch through both loops to create a stronger, more even edge for seaming.

Finished Dimensions

All measurements are approximate and taken with the beanie relaxed and laid flat. The ribbed fabric is designed to stretch comfortably around the baby’s head.

Size	Intended Head Circumference	Laid-Flat Hat Width	Relaxed Hat Circumference	Unfolded Height
Preemie	9–12 in	3 in	6 in	5.25 in
0–3 Months	12–14 in	3.5 in	7 in	9.5 in
3–6 Months	14–16 in	4.25 in	8.5 in	9.5 in
6–9 Months	16–17 in	5 in	10 in	9.5 in
9–12 Months	17–18 in	5.5 in	11 in	9.5 in

The ribbed fabric is very stretchy, so the relaxed hat circumference is smaller than the intended head circumference. Fold the brim to adjust the finished height and fit.

Age-based sizing is only a guide. When possible, measure the baby’s head and select the size according to actual head circumference.

Love This Pattern? Keep It Forever.

Prefer to crochet without ads or scrolling? The printable PDF includes the complete Ribbed Baby Beanie pattern in all five sizes, organized in one clean, easy-to-follow file.

The PDF also includes:

Complete instructions for sizes preemie through 9–12 months
Printable materials, yardage, gauge, and sizing charts
Step-by-step finishing photographs
Bonus polar bear crochet appliqué pattern

Purchase the Printable PDF, includes bonus polar bear appliqué pattern!

Polar Bear applique by www.itchinforsomestitchin.com

The complete pattern is also available to members inside The Crochet Conservatory.

Prefer to use the free version? Keep scrolling—the complete written pattern is included below.

Beanie Construction

The Ribbed Baby Beanie begins as a simple rectangle worked flat in rows. The foundation chain determines the height of the hat, while the number of completed rows determines its circumference.

Single crochet stitches worked through the back loop create the stretchy ribbed texture. Once the rectangle is complete, the two short edges are joined with slip stitches to form a tube.

The top edge is then gathered, pulled closed, and sewn securely. Fold the lower edge upward to create the brim. Because the beanie is made from a rectangle, you do not need to crochet in the round or shape the crown with decreases.

Crochet Ribbed Baby Beanie Pattern by www.itchinforsomestitchin.com

Pattern Notes

Read all pattern notes, instructions, and other provided details carefully before beginning. A few extra minutes upfront can save you hours of frustration later.

This pattern is written using standard US crochet terminology.
The beanie is worked flat in rows and then seamed together.
The foundation chain determines the height of the hat, while the number of completed rows determines its circumference.
The chain 1 at the end of each row is a turning chain and does not count as a stitch.
Beginning with Row 2, work each single crochet through the back loop only, except for the final stitch of the row.
Work the final stitch of each row through both loops. This creates a sturdier, more even edge for seaming.
Leave a tail measuring at least 12–15 inches after completing the final row. You will use this tail to seam the hat and cinch the top closed.
All measurements are approximate and taken with the beanie relaxed and laid flat.
Baby head sizes vary. When possible, measure the intended recipient’s head before selecting a size.
The ribbed fabric is very stretchy. The relaxed finished circumference will be smaller than the head circumference it is designed to fit.
The brim is folded after assembly and can be adjusted to your preferred depth. A deeper fold creates a shorter, thicker brim, while a shallower fold creates a taller hat.
The written sizing is based on #3 lightweight yarn. Substituting #4 worsted-weight yarn will create a thicker and slightly larger hat.
The pattern is divided into two parts: the crochet instructions and the finishing instructions. Finishing is the same for every size and is provided once after all five size sections.
Read through the complete pattern, including the finishing instructions, before beginning.

A Note About the Original Striped Beanie

The striped beanie shown on my son was made with Caron Simply Soft #4 worsted-weight yarn in the 9–12 month size. He was nine months old and small for his age, so the hat was still quite large on him. Because crochet fabric stretches and this version was made with heavier yarn, he was able to wear it beyond his first birthday.

Unlock the Free Ribbed Baby Beanie Pattern

The complete Ribbed Baby Beanie pattern is free for subscribers. Create a free account or sign in below to unlock all five sizes and the complete assembly instructions.

How to Unlock the Pattern

Click the Sign Up for Free button in the box below.
Create your free account or select Switch to Login if you already have one.
Once you are signed in, the complete pattern will automatically appear below.

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If you forget your password, use the Forgot Password link in the Grow login window. Passwords and password resets are managed by Grow, so I’m unable to access or reset them for you.

Ribbed Crochet Baby Beanie Pattern Instructions

This ribbed baby beanie is worked flat in rows. Choose the appropriate size below and then follow the Assembly and Finishing instructions, which are the same for every size.

Preemie

Foundation: Ch 26.

Row 1: Sc in the second ch from the hook and in each ch across. Ch 1 and turn. (25 sts)

Rows 2–39: Sc in the BLO of each st across until one st remains. Sc through both loops of the final st. Ch 1 and turn. (25 sts)

Row 40: Sc in the BLO of each st across until one st remains. Sc through both loops of the final st. Fasten off, leaving a 12–15-inch tail for seaming. (25 sts)

0–3 Months

Foundation: Ch 46.

Row 1: Sc in the second ch from the hook and in each ch across. Ch 1 and turn. (45 sts)

Rows 2–45: Sc in the BLO of each st across until one st remains. Sc through both loops of the final st. Ch 1 and turn. (45 sts)

Row 46: Sc in the BLO of each st across until one st remains. Sc through both loops of the final st. Fasten off, leaving a 12–15-inch tail for seaming. (45 sts)

3–6 Months

Foundation: Ch 46.

Row 1: Sc in the second ch from the hook and in each ch across. Ch 1 and turn. (45 sts)

Rows 2–55: Sc in the BLO of each st across until one st remains. Sc through both loops of the final st. Ch 1 and turn. (45 sts)

Row 56: Sc in the BLO of each st across until one st remains. Sc through both loops of the final st. Fasten off, leaving a 12–15-inch tail for seaming. (45 sts)

6–9 Months

Foundation: Ch 46.

Row 1: Sc in the second ch from the hook and in each ch across. Ch 1 and turn. (45 sts)

Rows 2–65: Sc in the BLO of each st across until one st remains. Sc through both loops of the final st. Ch 1 and turn. (45 sts)

Row 66: Sc in the BLO of each st across until one st remains. Sc through both loops of the final st. Fasten off, leaving a 12–15-inch tail for seaming. (45 sts)

9–12 Months

Foundation: Ch 46.

Row 1: Sc in the second ch from the hook and in each ch across. Ch 1 and turn. (45 sts)

Rows 2–71: Sc in the BLO of each st across until one st remains. Sc through both loops of the final st. Ch 1 and turn. (45 sts)

Row 72: Sc in the BLO of each st across until one st remains. Sc through both loops of the final st. Fasten off, leaving a 12–15-inch tail for seaming. (45 sts)

Assembly and Finishing

Follow these instructions for all pattern sizes.

Step 1: Join the Rectangle

Fold the crocheted rectangle in half so the foundation-row edge and final-row edge meet. The ribbed rows should run horizontally while you join the edges.

Using the long yarn tail, slip stitch the two edges together to form a tube.

Step 2: Position the Seam and Tail

Turn the work so the ribbing runs vertically and the long yarn tail is positioned at the top of the hat.

Step 3: Thread the Needle

Thread the long yarn tail onto a tapestry needle.

Step 4: Gather the Top

Weave the needle back and forth around the open top edge of the hat. Continue working around the entire opening until you return to the starting point.

Step 5: Cinch the Opening

Pull the yarn tail firmly to gather the top edges together and close the opening.

Step 6: Secure the Top

Use the remaining tail to sew across the gathered opening several times. Make sure the top is completely closed and securely fastened.

Fasten off and weave in the end.

Step 7: Finish the Brim

Turn the beanie right side out. Fold the bottom edge upward to create the brim, adjusting the fold until the hat reaches your preferred finished height.

Weave in any remaining ends. Add an optional pom-pom or crochet appliqué if desired.

Customizing Your Ribbed Baby Beanie

This simple ribbed crochet baby beanie makes a lovely blank canvas for adding your own colors and finishing touches.

Experiment with color: Use one solid shade, alternating stripes, or a self-striping yarn.
Adjust the brim: Fold the brim higher for a snugger fit or lower for a little more coverage.
Add a pom-pom: Finish the crown with a coordinating yarn pom-pom.
Add an appliqué: Decorate the brim with a crocheted flower, heart, animal face, or another small appliqué. The premium printable PDF includes the pattern for the adorable polar bear appliqué shown on the beanie.
Create a gift set: Pair the beanie with a coordinating baby blanket, cardigan, or pair of booties.
Try a heavier yarn: Use a soft #4 worsted-weight yarn for a thicker, slightly larger version of the hat.

When adding pom-poms, buttons, or appliqués to baby items, attach them very securely. Decorative hats should only be worn under adult supervision and should be removed before the baby sleeps.

Frequently Asked Questions – Ribbed Baby Beanie Pattern

Have questions while making your crochet baby hat? These FAQs cover the most common concerns and tips for success.

Yes. The beanie uses basic chain and single crochet stitches and is worked flat in rows. You do not need to know how to crochet in the round. After completing the rectangle, you seam the edges and gather the top to form the hat.

The pattern is designed for soft #3 lightweight or DK yarn. This creates the lighter fabric and intended sizing shown in the light blue and neutral samples.

Yes. You can use a soft #4 worsted-weight yarn, such as Caron Simply Soft. The finished hat will be thicker and slightly larger when you use the same hook and instructions. For the most accurate fit, particularly for the smaller sizes, use #3 lightweight yarn and match the pattern gauge.

Working single crochet stitches in the back loops creates the stretchy ribbed texture. The ribbing allows the beanie to stretch comfortably around the baby’s head.

The foundation chain determines the height of the hat, while the number of completed rows determines its circumference. Add or remove foundation chains to adjust the height. Add or remove rows to adjust the circumference, ending after completing an even number of rows.

Remember that any adjustments will change the amount of yarn required.

Check your gauge before beginning. If your stitches are too small, use a larger crochet hook. If your stitches are too large, use a smaller hook.

You can also adjust the number of rows because the rows determine the finished circumference. Keep in mind that the ribbed fabric is designed to stretch and the listed measurements are taken while the hat is relaxed.

Yes. You can personalize the beanie with a securely attached pom-pom or small crochet appliqué. The premium printable PDF also includes the pattern for the polar bear appliqué shown on the beanie.

For the best results, hand wash the finished beanie in cool water with a mild detergent. Gently press out excess water without twisting or wringing the fabric, reshape the hat, and lay it flat to dry.

Always check the care instructions on your chosen yarn label, particularly if you substituted a different fiber or yarn weight. If the beanie includes a pom-pom or appliqué, make sure it remains securely attached after washing.

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Your Ribbed Crochet Baby Beanie Is Complete

Your Ribbed Crochet Baby Beanie is finished and ready to keep a special little one cozy. With its classic ribbed texture, adjustable folded brim, and simple construction, it makes a thoughtful baby shower gift, winter accessory, or charity project.

I’d love to hear how your project turned out! Leave a comment below and tell me which size you made, what yarn you used, and whether you added stripes, a pom-pom, or an appliqué.

I’d also love to see your finished beanie! Share your photos on Instagram and Facebook, tag @itchinforsomestitchin, and use #IFSS_RibbedBabyBeanie and #itchinforsomestitchin so I can celebrate your beautiful work. Don’t forget to follow me for more crochet patterns, tips, and inspiration!

If you’re looking for a welcoming place to share your crochet projects, ask questions, and connect with fellow makers, I’d love for you to join the Itchin’ for Some Stitchin’ Crochet Community on Facebook. We’d love to see what you’ve created!

Vintage-style beige graphic with elegant brown script that says “Join us!” A soft flourish decorates the right side. Text reads: “Craving a little crafty conversation & heartfelt encouragement? Come cozy up in my Crochet Community on Facebook!” A small Facebook icon appears beside the invitation. A subtle link at the bottom says, “Click here to join!”

More Baby Crochet Patterns You’ll Love

Looking for another sweet project to make for a little one? These beginner-friendly baby crochet patterns make thoughtful gifts, meaningful charity projects, and lovely additions to a handmade baby set.

Thick and Soft Crochet Seed Stitch Baby Blanket Rolled up an tied with a red ribbon

Continue Learning

Need a little extra help with one of the techniques used in this pattern? These beginner-friendly tutorials will walk you through the basics.

How to Crochet for Beginners — Review the essential skills you need to begin a crochet project.
How to Single Crochet — Learn how to make the basic stitch used throughout this beanie.
How to Make a Yarn Pom-Pom — Finish your beanie with an optional handmade pom-pom.

Thank you

I sincerely appreciate you visiting my blog! By sharing my content and/or making a purchase you are making it possible for me to continue producing and sharing free content for everyone to enjoy. Your support is amazing!

Hand written signature of RaeLynn with a heart in brown ink

Copyright & Creative Notice

This crochet pattern is an original design by RaeLynn Endicott @ Itchin’ for some Stitchin’. You are welcome to make and sell finished items created from this pattern.

However, the pattern itself — including instructions, layout, and all written content and original images — is protected by copyright. Please do not copy, redistribute, or post it elsewhere. If you’d like to share, kindly link back to this original post.

All crochet patterns are fully designed, tested, and handmade by RaeLynn.

Luanne Cram

Thursday 21st of August 2025

I am new to your site. In fact I am new to crocheting. Can you please tell me how I can get your patterns where I can print them as a PDF and not have 24 pages because of all the advertisements. The patterns I was looking for were the baby hat and a medium sized dog sweater. Thanks so much.

Itchin4Stitchin

Friday 22nd of August 2025

Hi Luanne,

Welcome, and I’m so glad you found my site—and even more excited that you’re diving into crochet! 🧶

Great question — viewing a pattern on the blog, it’s designed to be free to access, which does mean it includes ads to help keep the content free for everyone. However, I totally understand wanting a clean, ad-free version to print.

Taking screenshots or copying and pasting to avoid ads may seem like a quick fix, but it actually violates copyright laws — even for free patterns. That said, I do offer properly formatted PDF versions of my patterns, including the baby hat and medium-sized dog sweater, and I’d be happy to point you straight to those!

Just shoot me a quick message via the Contact button on my website or email me directly at [email protected] - and I’ll send over the links to the PDF versions you’re looking for.

If you ever need help getting started with any of the patterns, don’t hesitate to reach out — I'm happy to help!

Best wishes, RaeLynn

Alison

Monday 1st of May 2023

Hi thank you for such an amazing easy pattern camebup a treat made pink one for my newbaby cousin & one for her 3 year old sister. They look very cute. Thanks from Alison

Tuesday 23rd of May 2023

Hi Allison,

You are so very welcome! Thank you for such a kind comment. :)

I am so pleased your little Ribbed baby beanies turned out so well! Feel free to pass pics on to me at [email protected] if you get a a chance - I'd love to see them!

Sincerely,

RaeLynn

Amber Spray

Thursday 23rd of June 2022

Hey! I really want to make this for my niece for Christmas. She will be 18 months. I was wondering if you had a recommendation on how much bigger to make the hat. She is also a little smaller, but her head is just under average.

Hi Amber,

Honestly, the best thing to do is measure her head and follow the chart for her proper head size. My son was a year old and wore a 9 month old hat size as he was quite small. If she is smaller, it is likely you could go for the 1 year size, but without accurate measurements I can't promise.

Does that make sense?

Collene

Tuesday 23rd of June 2020

So very cute! Especially the applique. However, I can't get the coupon code link to even open.

Sunday 28th of June 2020

Hi Collene,

I am so sorry. I have been out-of-state due to moving. Raverly had just done a new update at the time of the event this was part of and some people were having issues with the codes because of it.

If you email me your email address I will be happy to send you a copy of the pattern. My email address is [email protected]

Brenda Meineke

Monday 22nd of June 2020

Hi RaeLynn, love this easy pattern. I will be making a lot of these and giving them to our church for a donation. Thanks for the pattern and God bless.

Hi Brenda,

I absolutely LOVE hearing that. You've just made my week. You are so very welcome.

God bless you and yours as well.

Why This Ribbed Baby Beanie Works

Build the Skills for This Beanie

What You’ll Find On This Page

Love Pinterest? I do!

At a Glance

Materials

Yarn Used for the Neutral Beanie

Choosing Your Yarn

Yardage by Size

Skill level

Gauge / Tension for the Ribbed Crochet Baby Beanie Pattern

Gauge

Crochet Abbreviations & Stitches Used

Finished Dimensions

Love This Pattern? Keep It Forever.

Beanie Construction

Pattern Notes

A Note About the Original Striped Beanie

Unlock the Free Ribbed Baby Beanie Pattern

How to Unlock the Pattern

Ribbed Crochet Baby Beanie Pattern Instructions

Preemie

0–3 Months

3–6 Months

6–9 Months

9–12 Months

Assembly and Finishing

Step 1: Join the Rectangle

Step 2: Position the Seam and Tail

Step 3: Thread the Needle

Step 4: Gather the Top

Step 5: Cinch the Opening

Step 6: Secure the Top

Step 7: Finish the Brim

Customizing Your Ribbed Baby Beanie

Frequently Asked Questions – Ribbed Baby Beanie Pattern

Your Ribbed Crochet Baby Beanie Is Complete

More Baby Crochet Patterns You’ll Love

Thick N’ Soft Seed Stitch Baby Blanket

Elizabeth Preemie Crochet Bonding Squares

Pumpkin Baby Set: Hat, Cocoon & Mittens

Continue Learning

Thank you

Copyright & Creative Notice