Welcome to one of my absolute favorite hat patterns - the Willow Knit Hat!
This cozy beanie features beautiful vertical ribbing that creates an elegant, timeless look while being incredibly warm and snug. What I love most about this design is how the ribbed texture mimics the look of knitting, but it's actually created with simple crochet stitches!
Don't let those gorgeous ribs intimidate you - I've broken down every step with detailed photos and clear instructions to help you create this classic piece. Ready to make a hat that looks professionally knitted but uses your favorite crochet skills? Grab your hook and let's create something beautiful together!
Pin for Later
Pin this pattern now to create the coziest ribbed beanie - your new favorite winter essential!
Details About Willow Knit Hat
Let me share the exciting details about this cozy Willow Knit Hat!
Unlike traditional granny square patterns, this beanie creates its distinctive look through continuous ribbing that gives it that gorgeous knit-like appearance. The finished hat measures approximately 21-22 inches in circumference and 6 inches in height, making it perfect for most adult head sizes.
What makes this hat truly special is how the combination of stitches creates those beautiful vertical ribs that look just like knitting! The pattern alternates between single crochet, half double crochet, and slip stitches worked in back loops only, creating that amazing texture that flows from crown to brim.
For colors, I'm absolutely in love with this deep navy blue - it's so classic and versatile! But don't feel limited - this pattern works beautifully in any solid color. Try a cozy cream for timeless elegance, forest green for outdoor adventures, or burgundy for a rich autumn feel. The ribbed texture really shines in darker colors, making those gorgeous lines pop! What's amazing about this design is that the vertical lines are slimming and elongating, making it flattering on everyone.
Recommended Yarn and Crochet Hooks
The secret to this beautiful pattern lies in choosing just the right yarn and hook combination! I'm absolutely thrilled to recommend Loopara 5-ply combed cotton yarn paired with a 4.0mm hook - together they create those crisp, gorgeous vertical ribs that make this hat so special.
The 5-ply weight gives amazing stitch definition for those crisp ribs, while the combed cotton creates a smooth, polished finish that looks so professional. When worked with a 4.0mm hook, you'll achieve that perfect tension that makes the ribbing pop. The yarn gets softer with each wash while maintaining its shape, and it's breathable yet warm enough for chilly days.
For colors, I'm in love with how versatile this pattern looks in different colors - try it in deep navy for a timeless look, classic black for everyday wear, or soft cream for a cozy winter vibe. The ribbed texture really shines in solid colors, letting those beautiful vertical lines take center stage.
Materials needed for Willow Knit Hat
- Yarn– Loopara 5ply combed cotton (Blue 45 and Blue 46)
- Hook- 4.0mm
- Scissors
- Stitch marker
- Yarn needle
- Leather label
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- ch - chain
- sl - slip stitch
- sc - single crochet
- hdc - half double crochet
- BLO - back loops only
- sk - skip stitch
How to Crochet Willow Knit Hat – Step by Step
Round 1: Chain 56. Work into the third loop (back bump) two stitches back. Work 25 single crochets, 6 half double crochets, 6 slip stitches, 6 half double crochets, 6 slip stitches. Chain 1, turn.
Round 2: Working in back loops only: Work 6 slip stitches, 6 half double crochets, 6 slip stitches, 6 half double crochets, 24 single crochets, 1 single crochet. Chain 1, turn.
Round 3: Working in back loops only: Work 25 single crochets, 6 slip stitches, 6 half double crochets, 6 slip stitches, 6 half double crochets, 6 slip stitches. Chain 1, turn.
Round 4: Working in back loops only: Work 6 slip stitches, 6 half double crochets, 6 slip stitches, 6 half double crochets, 6 slip stitches, 24 single crochets, 1 single crochet. Chain 1, turn.
Round 5: Working in back loops only: Work 25 single crochets, 6 half double crochets, 6 slip stitches, 6 half double crochets, 6 slip stitches, skip 6 stitches. Chain 1, turn.
Round 6: Working in back loops only: Work 6 slip stitches, 6 half double crochets, 6 slip stitches, 6 half double crochets, 24 single crochets, 1 single crochet. Chain 1, turn.
Round 7: Working in back loops only: Work 25 single crochets, 6 slip stitches, 6 half double crochets, 6 slip stitches, 6 half double crochets, 6 slip stitches. Chain 1, turn.
Round 8: Working in back loops only: Work 6 slip stitches, 6 half double crochets, 6 slip stitches, 6 half double crochets, 6 slip stitches, 24 single crochets, 1 single crochet. Chain 1, turn.
Rounds 9-112: Repeat rounds 5-8 twenty-eight times (you can adjust number of repeats based on tension).
Tips: Working in back loops only is key to creating those beautiful knit-like ribs, so take extra care to identify the back loop before each stitch. Maintain even tension throughout, especially when transitioning between stitch types. The turning chain at the end of each row should be snug but not too tight to maintain clean edges.
Crochet Willow Knit Hat Assemble
Step 1: (Working on wrong wide) Insert your hook through both the entire stitch of the piece closest to you and the outer loop of the opposite piece, then work slip stitches to join.
Step 2: Continue slip stitching from brim to crown.
Step 3: Leave a long tail for crown seaming. Thread needle through each raised strand and pull to gather the crown tight.
Step 4: Secure with several additional stitches to reinforce the seam.
Step 5: Install the leather label.
Tips: Position your work with wrong sides facing each other and maintain even tension while seaming for a smooth, invisible join. Take your time with the crown gathering - pull slowly and adjust the gathers evenly around the top.
Care and Cleaning Instructions
Daily Care Tips
Keep your Willow Knit Hat looking its best by gently brushing off any lint or dust after wearing. If it gets slightly stretched out, lightly steam it and reshape while damp. The ribbed texture is durable but handle with care to maintain those crisp vertical lines!
Washing Methods
Hand wash in cool water with gentle detergent, squeezing (never wringing) to clean. Reshape while damp and lay flat to dry - this helps maintain those beautiful ribs. The cotton yarn actually gets softer with each wash while keeping its shape. Always avoid direct sunlight when drying to protect the color.
Storage Suggestions
Store your hat flat or on a rounded form to maintain its shape. During off-season, keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you need to store it folded, stuff the crown with acid-free tissue paper to prevent crease lines in the ribbing.
What's Next
Just finished your Willow Knit Hat? Share your beautiful creation with our crochet community! Tag me or use #WillowKnitHatCrochet on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter. Can't wait to see your gorgeous ribbed beanies in different colors!
