Koosh Retro Crochet Beanie (Free Beginner Retro Granny Stripe Beanie Pattern)
This pattern creates a beanie using the classic granny stripe stitch, a variation of the traditional granny square motif. It’s worked in rounds, starting from the crown and expanding outwards, with a color change in each round to create a striped effect. The pattern concludes with a ribbed band worked in rows and attached to the main body.
Skill Level: This pattern is explicitly labeled as “Beginner”. It uses very basic stitches and a repetitive construction. The skills required are:
- Chain (ch)
- Slip stitch (sl st)
- Treble crochet (tr) – Note: This pattern uses UK terminology. A “tr” in UK terms is the same as a “double crochet (dc)” in US terms. This is a crucial point for anyone using the pattern.
- Working in spaces between stitches
- Changing colors
- Working in the back loop only (for the band)
- Basic seaming
Sizing: The finished size is stated as “To suit head 50-57cm circumference.” This corresponds to a typical adult small/medium size.
Yarn:
- Type: The pattern specifically calls for “100 gram koosh” yarn. It doesn’t state the yarn weight category, but “Koosh” is likely a specific brand/type of yarn. It will most likely to be Aran/worsted weight.
- Amount: One ball (100g) of each of four colors (Col1, Col2, Col3, Col4) is needed.
- Colours the colours are changed at each round.
Hooks:
4.50mm crochet hook (for the band)
5.00mm crochet hook (for the main body of the hat)
Free Pattern
Construction:
- Crown: The hat begins with a small ring of treble crochets (UK terminology – equivalent to US double crochets).
- Granny Stripe Rounds: The body of the hat is worked in rounds using the granny stripe stitch. This involves working clusters of 3 treble crochets (UK tr / US dc) into the spaces between the clusters of the previous round. Each round increases the number of clusters. The rounds alternate colour.
- Color Sequence: The pattern establishes a specific color sequence (Col1, Col2, Col3, Col4) that is repeated throughout the body of the hat.
- Band:
- The band is worked separately in rows using a smaller hook.
- It uses a technique that combines single crochet (UK dc / US sc) and a modified stitch to attach the band to the body of the hat as you go.
- The band is worked in the back loop only to create a ribbed texture.
- The ends of the band are seamed together.
Key Features:
- Beginner-Friendly: Uses simple stitches and a clear, repetitive pattern.
- Granny Stripe Stitch: Creates a classic, textured look.
- Retro Style: The color changes and granny stripe give it a vintage vibe.
- Clear Instructions: The pattern includes detailed abbreviations and notes.
- UK Terminology: It’s essential to remember that “tr” means UK treble crochet, which is equivalent to a US double crochet.