All the Free Hat Knitting Patterns You Need

Whether you are new to knitting or an expert, a good hat is always a fantastic choice for your next project. You can make hats for yourself, as a gift or as an excellent item to donate to someone in need. Below is an assortment of free hat knitting patterns all possible for beginners; some even have the option to buy needed supplies to help you get started. Don’t need a supply list? Just scroll to the bottom of the linked page to download the free pattern, Enjoy the inspiration and share your completed project with us!

First, let’s go over some tips on yarn selection for a successful knitted hat! If you don’t need tips, click the link to jump straight to the free hat knitting patterns!

Best Yarn for Beginner Knit Hats

Choosing the right yarn can make or break your first hat project. As a beginner, you’ll want yarn that’s easy to work with, forgiving if you make mistakes, and comfortable to wear. Below are the best yarn types for knit hats, broken down by project style — plus why each one works so well. When available, for each yarn, we offer two links to buy for your convenience. Amazon will be the quick option and free shipping if you have prime. The yarn maker’s site can be cheaper if you have a few extra days and plan to order enough for the free shipping. Hope this helps!

Best Yarn for Warm Winter Hats

If your goal is a cozy, cold-weather hat, look for yarns that offer warmth without being scratchy or difficult to knit.

What to look for:

Worsted or bulky weight
Wool blends or alpaca blends
Smooth texture (avoids splitting)

Great beginner-friendly options:

Lion Brand Wool-Ease from Lion Brand or Amazon
- warm, durable, and washable
KnitPicks Swish Worsted from KnitPicks or Amazon
- soft, elastic, and easy to knit
KnitPicks Wonderfluff Alpaca Blend – lightweight but extremely warm

💡 Tip: Alpaca blends are especially great for hats because they’re warm without bulk and gentle on sensitive skin.
👉 Related read: Why Alpaca Yarn Is Better Than Other Yarns

Best Yarn for Baby Hats

Baby hats need extra softness and easy care. Avoid scratchy fibers and choose yarns that can handle frequent washing.

What to look for:

Soft acrylics or cotton blends
Hypoallergenic fibers
Machine washable

Reliable beginner picks:

Bernat Baby Blanket – ultra soft and beginner-proof
KnitPicks Brava Worsted from KnitPicks or Amazon
- affordable, washable, and smooth
Lion Brand Feels Like Butta from Lion Brand or Amazon
- silky texture that babies love

💡 Tip: Stick to light colors so you can clearly see your stitches while learning.

Best Yarn for Slouchy Hats & Bun Hats

Slouchy hats and bun hats (such as this cute one offered below!) look best with yarn that has drape rather than stiffness.

What to look for:

DK or worsted weight
Bamboo, merino, or blended fibers
Yarn with good flow

Recommended yarns:

Malabrigo Rios – soft, flexible, and beautiful stitch definition
KnitPicks CotLin – breathable with great drape
Lion Brand Coboo from Lion Brand or Amazon
- bamboo/cotton blend perfect for relaxed hats

Needle Tip for Hat Projects

If you’re planning to knit more than one hat, interchangeable knitting needles make switching yarn weights and patterns much easier! Because who doesn’t have more than one project in mind?

👉 Recommended guide: Best Interchangeable Knitting Needle Sets for Beginners