Basic Bulky Beanie Free Crochet Pattern (Baby to Adult Sizes)
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Looking for a fast crochet hat pattern? The Basic Bulky Beanie works up quickly with bulky #5 yarn and a 6 mm (J) hook. It’s warm, soft, and ideal for gift-giving, craft fairs, or donation projects. The simple stitch pattern keeps it beginner-friendly while producing a classic, comfortable hat for all ages.
Why You’ll Love This Pattern
Simple stitches with modern, clean texture that suits any yarn color.
Uses bulky yarn for quick results — most sizes take under an hour.
Great for charity projects or last-minute gifts.
Free Basic Bulky Crochet Beanie Pattern
This post includes the free Basic Bulky Beanie Crochet Pattern, available in sizes from preemie to adult large. I’ve included two length options so you can decide if you’d like your hat to reach the base of your earlobes or sit mid-ear. These soft, cozy hats also make wonderful chemo caps and preemie hats for donation projects.
If you’d like to try a seamless option, visit my Seamless Double Crochet Hat pattern — it’s a super simple version of this bulky beanie.
Sizes range from Preemie to Adult Large – remember if you have a head to measure – measure it because the sizes are based on average ranges and not everyone conforms to the ‘average’ sizes.
Gauge
Approximately 10 dc in 4 inches; 8 rounds in 5 inches (6.4 rounds = 4 inches)
If your stitches are too loose (you have more than10 dc in 4 inches), go down a hook size; if they are too tight (you have less than 10 dc in 4 inches), go up one.
TIP: Always check your gauge before starting. Even among bulky yarns, fiber content and twist can affect the hat’s size and fit.
Abbreviations
US Terminology used
ch – chain
dc – double crochet
DMR – double magic ring
R – round
rem – remaining
rep – repeat
sk – skip
sl st – slip stitch
st/sts – stitch/stitches
* – ** Repeat the instructions between the asterisks the number of times indicated. This repeat will contain of multiple instructions.
() – Repeat the instructions between the parentheses the number of times indicated.
[] – at the end of the row – the total number of stitches
do not count the ch 3 at the beginning of a round as a stitch
the first st of each round is worked in the same st as you sl st to join
length of hat is to the base of the earlobe; instructions have been included for mid-ear length as well.
For any of my hat patterns that I have started with a double magic ring (see this tutorial) you can just as easily crochet a regular magic ring or begin by crocheting a chain-3 and slip stitch to join to the first chain to form a ring and then work your stitches directly into that ring.
Using your 6 mm (J) crochet hook, or the size required to reach gauge:
Preemie Bulky Beanie
To Fit: 12 inches Head Circumference Finished Length: 4.5 inches
R1: DMR: Ch 3, 12 dc, sl st to the top of first dc to join. [12]
R2: Ch 3, 2 dc in each st around; sl st to the first dc to join. [24]
R3: Ch 3, 2 dc in the first st; 1 dc in each rem st around. Sl st to the first dc to join. [25]
R4: Ch 3, 1 dc in each st around. Sl st to the first dc to join. [25]
R5-R7: Rep R4 [25]
If you would prefer the hat to reach mid ear, stop after R6.
Proceed to finishing instructions.
Newborn Bulky Beanie
To Fit: 13.5 inches Head Circumference Finished Length: 5 inches
R1: DMR: Ch 3, 12 dc, sl st to the top of first dc to join. [12]
R2: Ch 3, 2 dc in each st around; sl st to the first dc to join. [24]
R3: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in each of the next 3 sts**. Work from * to ** 5 times. 1 dc in each rem st around. Sl st to the first dc to join. [29]
R4: Ch 3, 1 dc in each st around. Sl st to the first dc to join. [29]
R5-R8: Rep R4 [29]
If you would prefer the hat to reach mid ear, stop after R7.
Proceed to finishing instructions.
0-3 months Bulky Beanie
To Fit: 16 inches Head Circumference Finished Length: 6 inches
R1: DMR: Ch 3, 12 dc, sl st to the top of first dc to join. [12]
R2: Ch 3, 2 dc in each st around; sl st to the first dc to join. [24]
R3: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in the next st**. Work from * to ** 11 times. 1 dc in each rem st around. Sl st to the first dc to join. [35]
R4: Ch 3, 1 dc in each st around. Sl st to the first dc to join. [35]
R5-R10: rep R4 [35]
If you would prefer the hat to reach mid ear, stop after R9.
Proceed to finishing instructions.
3-6 months Bulky Beanie
To Fit: 17 inches Head Circumference Finished Length: 6.25 inches
R1: DMR: Ch 3, 12 dc, sl st to the top of first dc to join. [12]
R2: Ch 3, 2 dc in each st around; sl st to the first dc to join. [24]
R3: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in the next st**. Work from * to ** 12 times. Sl st to the first dc to join. [36]
R4: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in each of the next 17 sts**. Rep from * to ** 2 times. Sl st to the first dc to join. [38]
R5: Ch 3, 1 dc in each st around. Sl st to the first dc to join. [38]
R6-R10: Rep R5 [38]
If you would prefer the hat to reach mid ear, stop after R9.
Proceed to finishing instructions.
6-12 months Bulky Beanie
To Fit: 18 inches Head Circumference Finished Length: 6.75 inches
R1: DMR: Ch 3, 12 dc, sl st to the top of first dc to join. [12]
R2: Ch 3, 2 dc in each st around; sl st to the first dc to join. [24]
R3: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in the next st**. Work from * to ** 12 times. Sl st to the first dc to join. [36]
R4: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in each of the next 8 sts**. Work from * to ** 4 times. Sl st to the first dc to join. [40]
R5: Ch 3, 1 dc in each st around. Sl st to the first dc to join. [40]
R6-R11: Rep R5 [40]
If you would prefer the hat to reach mid ear, stop after R10.
Proceed to finishing instructions.
12-24 months Bulky Beanie
To Fit: 19 inches Head Circumference Finished Length: 7 inches
R1: DMR: Ch 3, 12 dc, sl st to the top of first dc to join. [12]
R2: Ch 3, 2 dc in each st around; sl st to the first dc to join. [24]
R3: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in the next st**. Work from * to ** 12 times. Sl st to the first dc to join. [36]
R4: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in each of the next 4 sts**. Work from * to ** 7 times. 1 dc in each rem st around. Sl st to the first dc to join. [43]
R5: Ch 3, 1 dc in each st around. Sl st to the first dc to join. [43]
R6-R11: rep R5 [43]
If you would prefer the hat to reach mid ear, stop after R10.
Proceed to finishing instructions.
3-6 years Bulky Beanie
To Fit: 20 inches Head Circumference Finished Length: 7.5 inches
R1: DMR: Ch 3, 12 dc, sl st to the top of first dc to join. [12]
R2: Ch 3, 2 dc in each st around; sl st to the first dc to join. [24]
R3: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in the next st**. Work from * to ** 12 times. Sl st to the first dc to join. [36]
R4: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in each of the next 3 sts**. Work from * to ** 9 times. Sl st to the first dc to join. [45]
R5: Ch 3, 1 dc in each st around. Sl st to the first dc to join. [45]
R6-R12: Rep R5 [45]
If you would prefer the hat to reach mid ear, stop after R11.
Proceed to finishing instructions.
7-10 years Bulky Beanie
To Fit: 20 inches Head Circumference Finished Length: 8 inches
R1: DMR: Ch 3, 12 dc, sl st to the top of first dc to join. [12]
R2: Ch 3, 2 dc in each st around; sl st to the first dc to join. [24]
R3: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in the next st**. Work from * to ** 12 times. Sl st to the first dc to join. [36]
R4: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in each of the next 2 sts**. Work from * to ** 12 times. Sl st to the first dc to join. [48]
R5: Ch 3, 1 dc in each st around. Sl st to the first dc to join. [48]
R6-R13: Rep R5 [48]
If you would prefer the hat to reach mid ear, stop after R12.
Proceed to finishing instructions.
Teen (Adult Small) Bulky Beanie
To Fit: 22 inches Head Circumference Finished Length: 8.25 inches
R1: DMR: Ch 3, 12 dc, sl st to the top of first dc to join. [12]
R2: Ch 3, 2 dc in each st around; sl st to the first dc to join. [24]
R3: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in the next st**. Work from * to ** 12 times. Sl st to the first dc to join. [36]
R4: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in each of the next 2 sts**. Work from * to ** 12 times. Sl st to the first dc to join. [48]
R5: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in each of the next 23 sts**. Work from * to ** 2 times. Sl st to the first dc to join. [50]
R6: Ch 3, 1 dc in each st around. Sl st to the first dc to join. [50]
R7-R13: Rep R6 [50]
If you would prefer the hat to reach mid ear, stop after R12.
Proceed to finishing instructions.
Adult Medium Bulky Beanie
To Fit: 23 inches Head Circumference Finished Length: 8.75 inches
R1: DMR: Ch 3, 12 dc, sl st to the top of first dc to join. [12]
R2: Ch 3, 2 dc in each st around; sl st to the first dc to join. [24]
R3: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in the next st**. Work from * to ** 12 times. Sl st to the first dc to join. [36]
R4: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in each of the next 2 sts**. Work from * to ** 12 times. Sl st to the first dc to join. [48]
R5: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in each of the next 5 sts**. Work from * to ** 7 times. 1 dc in each rem st around. Sl st to the first dc to join. [55]
R6: Ch 3, 1 dc in each st around. Sl st to the first dc to join. [55]
R7-R13: Rep R6 [55]
If you would prefer the hat to reach mid ear, stop after R12.
Proceed to finishing instructions.
Adult Large Bulky Beanie
To Fit: 24 inches Head Circumference Finished Length: 9 inches
R1: DMR: Ch 3, 12 dc, sl st to the top of first dc to join. [12]
R2: Ch 3, 2 dc in each st around; sl st to the first dc to join. [24]
R3: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in the next st**. Work from * to ** 12 times. Sl st to the first dc to join. [36]
R4: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in each of the next 2 sts**. Work from * to ** 12 times. Sl st to the first dc to join. [48]
R5: Ch 3,*2 dc in the next st, 1 dc in each of the next 3 sts**. Work from * to ** 10 times. 1 dc in each rem st around. Sl st to the first dc to join. [58]
R6: Ch 3, 1 dc in each st around. Sl st to the first dc to join. [58]
R7-R14: Rep R6 [58]
If you would prefer the hat to reach mid ear, stop after R13.
Tip: Click the printer icon at the top of this post to print or save a copy of the pattern for your personal use. You can choose to save it as a PDF or print it out to keep beside you while you crochet.
No. This pattern is designed specifically for Bulky (5) weight yarn. Using a lighter or heavier yarn will change the finished size and texture. For best results, choose a similar bulky yarn and check your gauge before starting.
How long does it take to crochet this beanie?
Most crocheters can make an adult size in about an hour.
Is this beginner-friendly?
Yes. The pattern uses only double crochet stitches, simple joins, and clear round instructions.
Can I add a pom-pom or brim?
Absolutely! Add a faux-fur pom-pom for a fun winter look, or extend the length by two rounds for a fold-over brim.
This beanie proves that simple patterns can be the most satisfying. Make a few in your favorite colors for cozy winter wear or quick handmade gifts. Don’t forget to pin this pattern to save it for later — it’s one you’ll use again and again.
Happy crocheting!
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Rhondda Mol is the crochet designer and blogger behind Oombawka Design Crochet. Since 2012, she has been sharing free crochet patterns, tutorials, and expert tips to help crocheters of all levels succeed. With more than 600 published patterns, Rhondda focuses on creating clear instructions and resources to inspire creativity and confidence in the crochet community.
Hi Valerie, yes of course. Start at round 2 for the 3 year size hat and use a hair elastic. Work the 24 dc around the elastic. Then continue with the pattern. Hope this helps, Rhondda
Can I make this into a messy bun hat for my 3 yr great granddaughter?
Thanks
Valerie
Hi Rhonda
Many thanks for the pattern. I, like others in these comments, am a ‘newbie’ and also struggled with too many stitches (the plus side is I’m now good at flat circles!!!). If it helps anyone else, I found that a stitch marker every 10 stitches kept me on track and I am now nearly there 😁
Hi Rhonda
Many thanks for the pattern. I, like several others in these comments, am a ‘newbie’ and also struggled with too many stitches (the plus side is I’m now good at flat circles!!!). If it helps anyone else, I found that a stitch marker every 10 stitches kept me on track and I am now nearly there 😁
Hi Kate 🙂 Yes this hat with 29 stitches will fit an average Newborn Head Size if you are reaching the gauge in the pattern. The pattern gauge is 10 dc in 4 inches. This means each dc stitch measures 0.4 inches. When you have 29 stitches multiplied by 0.4 inches this gives you a finished hat circumference of 11.6 inches around. The hat will also stretch, allowing you a few extra inches (2+ more inches) of wiggle room for the head. The finished hat will fit up to a 14 inch head size. Newborns grow quite quickly though so if you are not going to be able to see the baby straight away, I recommend making the next size up. My son only fit newborn hat size for 2 weeks and then we needed to move up to the next size hat. All the best, Rhondda
Do you find this newborn hat @ 29 stitches around actually fits a real baby? It seems so tiny?
Hi Lorna, If you are ending up with too many stitches you may be working more than 1 stitch in each spot accidentally? Even a couple extra will make the hat much too large. I’d recommend counting your stitches at the end of every round so you can be sure where the extra stitches might be happening and then we can take a look to see what part of the instructions is causing the trouble. Thanks 🙂 Rhondda
Hi Valerie, yes of course. Start at round 2 for the 3 year size hat and use a hair elastic. Work the 24 dc around the elastic. Then continue with the pattern. Hope this helps, Rhondda
Can I make this into a messy bun hat for my 3 yr great granddaughter?
Thanks
Valerie
Hi Rhonda
Many thanks for the pattern. I, like others in these comments, am a ‘newbie’ and also struggled with too many stitches (the plus side is I’m now good at flat circles!!!). If it helps anyone else, I found that a stitch marker every 10 stitches kept me on track and I am now nearly there 😁
Hi Rhonda
Many thanks for the pattern. I, like several others in these comments, am a ‘newbie’ and also struggled with too many stitches (the plus side is I’m now good at flat circles!!!). If it helps anyone else, I found that a stitch marker every 10 stitches kept me on track and I am now nearly there 😁
Hi Kate 🙂 Yes this hat with 29 stitches will fit an average Newborn Head Size if you are reaching the gauge in the pattern. The pattern gauge is 10 dc in 4 inches. This means each dc stitch measures 0.4 inches. When you have 29 stitches multiplied by 0.4 inches this gives you a finished hat circumference of 11.6 inches around. The hat will also stretch, allowing you a few extra inches (2+ more inches) of wiggle room for the head. The finished hat will fit up to a 14 inch head size. Newborns grow quite quickly though so if you are not going to be able to see the baby straight away, I recommend making the next size up. My son only fit newborn hat size for 2 weeks and then we needed to move up to the next size hat. All the best, Rhondda
Do you find this newborn hat @ 29 stitches around actually fits a real baby? It seems so tiny?
Hi Lorna, If you are ending up with too many stitches you may be working more than 1 stitch in each spot accidentally? Even a couple extra will make the hat much too large. I’d recommend counting your stitches at the end of every round so you can be sure where the extra stitches might be happening and then we can take a look to see what part of the instructions is causing the trouble. Thanks 🙂 Rhondda