Free Crochet Seafarer’s Hat Pattern.
Crochet Seafarer’s Cap by Beth Hall
This pattern creates a classic, close-fitting cap, likely resembling a watch cap or beanie, often associated with sailors or a nautical style. The design is characterized by a prominent ribbed section at the bottom (the brim) and a smoother, shaped crown. The entire cap is worked in short rows, creating a vertical texture, rather than the typical in-the-round construction of many hats.
Skill Level: The pattern uses a limited number of stitches, but the construction is somewhat unusual. It’s likely best suited for an intermediate crocheter, or a very adventurous beginner who is comfortable with:
- Chain (ch)
- Slip stitch (sl st)
- Single crochet (sc)
- Half double crochet (hdc)
- Working in the back loop only (BLO) – This is crucial for the entire pattern.
- Understanding short row shaping (the repeating rows 2-5 sequence)
- Seaming
The short row technique, and the constant turning and working back and forth, might be confusing for a complete beginner.
Sizing: The pattern doesn’t explicitly state a size, but it says “Repeat rows 2-5, 12 times…or to desired size.” This means the hat’s circumference is determined by the number of repetitions of the core row sequence. To get a specific size, you’d need to:
- Work a swatch (a small sample) of rows 2-5.
- Measure the width of that swatch.
- Calculate how many repeats are needed to reach the desired head circumference.
Yarn:
- Type: The pattern doesn’t specify a yarn weight. Given the stitch counts and the likely style of the hat, a worsted weight (#4) or possibly a DK weight (#3) yarn would be appropriate.
- Amount: The yardage isn’t provided.
Construction:
- Foundation: The hat begins with a long chain.
- Short Rows: The entire hat is built using short rows. This means you work partway across a row, turn, work back, and then continue working across the original row, gradually shaping the fabric.
- Ribbing: The repeated slip stitch sections (rows 2 and 4) create the ribbed brim. These sections are worked back and forth within the short rows.
- Body/Crown: The body of the hat is formed by alternating sections of slip stitches, single crochets, and half double crochets, all worked in the back loop only. This creates a subtle texture and helps shape the crown.
- Shaping: The short row technique, combined with the varying stitch heights, creates the shaping for the crown. You’re essentially working in wedges.
- Seaming: After completing the rows, the hat is seamed up the side. The top of the hat is then gathered closed by weaving the yarn tail through the top of the slip stitches in each row and pulling it tight.
Key Features:
- Short Row Construction: This is the defining feature of the pattern, creating the vertical texture and shaping.
- Back Loop Only (BLO): This creates a ridged texture throughout the entire hat, contributing to both the look and the elasticity.
- Seafarer’s Style: The resulting hat is a classic, functional design.
- Customizable Sizing: easy to adjust to fit.