Free & Easy Bucket Hat Crochet Pattern for Beginners

If you’re looking for a fun and versatile crochet project, my easy crochet bucket hat pattern is just what you need! This adorable hat is perfect for adding a touch of style to any outfit while keeping you protected from the sun.

Whether you’re new to crocheting or have some experience, this free pattern is a great choice for all skill levels. Not only is it a stylish hat that you can wear during any season, but it’s also a quick and satisfying project that will help you build your crochet skills.

You’ll love how this crocheted hat comes together, making it a go-to piece in your collection of crochet projects. Whether you’re making it for yourself or as a gift, this bucket hat is sure to become a favorite! The free crochet pattern can be found below.

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What is a Bucket Hat?

A bucket hat is a cap with a downward-sloping brim that provides excellent sun protection. Originally designed for fishermen, this stylish hat has become a popular fashion accessory for both men and women. Bucket hats are known for their versatility and are often seen as sun hats during the summer or as trendy accessories in cooler weather.

The simple bucket hat pattern I’ve designed is perfect for anyone who wants to make a basic yet fashionable hat that can be worn in all seasons, whether you’re out in the warmer weather or staying cozy in the colder months.

Free Bucket Hat Crochet Pattern

This easy bucket hat pattern is designed with beginner crocheters in mind. It uses basic stitches that are easy to learn and, therefore, work up quickly, making it a perfect project for those who are just starting to build their crochet skills.

The simple bucket hat pattern is not only fun to make but also an easy way to practice your technique. If you’re new to crochet or looking for a project that won’t overwhelm you, then this pattern is a great place to start. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create a stylish hat that you’ll be proud to wear.

Crochet Project Materials Needed

Crochet Hook Size: H-8 5 mm crochet hook or size needed to obtain gauge.
Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in white, pink, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. I used Lion Brand Yarns 24/7 Cotton.
Yarn needle: Use this to weave in your ends.
Scissors: Use scissors to fasten off your yarn.
Stitch marker(s): Optional. Use these to help keep track of your stitches.
Tape measure: Use this to measure your head size.

The Best Yarn for Bucket Hats

When it comes to choosing the best yarn for your bucket hat, you have a few options. For warmer months, I recommend using cotton yarn. It’s both breathable and comfortable, making it ideal for sun hats and other crocheted accessories that you’ll wear in the heat.

On the other hand, acrylic yarn is also a great choice, especially if you plan to wear your hat in the colder months. It’s warm, durable, and also available in a variety of colors. No matter which yarn you choose, you’ll end up with a handmade hat that’s both functional and fashionable.

Yardage Needed

My adult size hat weighs 92 grams/3.2 ounces.

Printable PDF Version

View an ad-free pdf version of this crochet pattern in my Etsy Shop: Rainbow Reef Bucket Hat Crochet Pattern

Bucket Hat Crochet Pattern Information

One of the great things about handmade hats is that they make wonderful gifts. A bucket hat is not only practical but also a thoughtful and personal present that shows you put time and effort into making something special.

These hats are perfect for summer and warmer weather, and because they’re so versatile, they can be worn by anyone. Plus, they’re a popular item at craft fairs! Whether you’re selling crocheted goods or looking for the perfect gift, a bucket hat is always a hit.

Skill Level

Beginner. This bucket hat crochet pattern uses basic crochet stitches in basic form and also in simple repeats in rounds.

Different Sizes

Child: head circumference of 19-20 inches

Adult: head circumference of 20-23 inches

Gauge

Please make a gauge swatch before you begin. If your swatch has more than 8 stitches over 2 inches, try using a larger hook. If you have less, then try a smaller hook size.

8 stitches = 2 inches

6 rows (hdc, dc repeat) = 2 inches

Crochet Terms

dc = double crochet stitches
hdc = half double crochet stitches
sc = single crochet stitches
ch/chs = chain/chains
st/sts = stitch/stitches
sl st = slip stitch
rnd/rnds = round/rounds
rem = remaining
blo = back loop only
flo = front loop only

Pattern Notes

The pattern is written in US terms.
The bucket hat is worked both in the round and from the top of the hat down.
Rounds 1-6 are the same for both sizes.
Repeat instructions between the asterisks (*) for the rest of the round.
Join each round with a slip stitch to the first stitch made in that round.
The beginning chain does not count as a stitch.
The stitch count is listed at the end of each round. Always double-check that you have the right number of stitches.

Magic Circle Alternative

If you’re not comfortable making a magic circle (magic ring), you can also use an alternative method to make round 1 of the crochet hat. This method is just as effective and might be easier for beginners.

Round 1: Chain 4, and then make 12 dc in the 4th ch from the hook, join (12 stitches)

Bucket Hat Crochet Pattern Instructions

Rounds 1-6 are the same for both the child and adult sizes. I used white yarn for the crown of the hat.

Rnd 1: Magic circle, ch 2, 12 dc, join (12 stitches)

Rnd 2: Ch 3, 2 dc in each st, join (24 stitches)

Rnd 3: Ch 3, *2 dc, dc in next st*, join (36 stitches)

Rnd 4: Ch 3, *2 dc, dc in next 2 sts*, join (48 stitches)

Rnd 5: Ch 3, *2 dc, dc in next 3 sts*, join (60 stitches)

Rnd 6: Ch 3, *2 dc, dc in next 4 sts*, join (72 stitches)

Child Size Bucket Hat Crochet Pattern Continued

Rnd 7: Ch 1, sc blo in each st, join (72 stitches)

(pink yarn) Rnd 8: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (72 stitches)

(white yarn) Rnd 9: Ch 3, dc in each st, join (72 stitches)

(orange yarn) Rnd 10: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (72 stitches)

(white yarn) Rnd 11: Ch 3, dc in each st, join (72 stitches)

(yellow yarn) Rnd 12: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (72 stitches)

(white yarn) Rnd 13: Ch 3, dc in each st, join (72 stitches)

(green yarn) Rnd 14: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (72 stitches)

(white yarn) Rnd 15: Ch 3, dc in each st, join (72 stitches)

(blue yarn) Rnd 16: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (72 stitches)

(white yarn) Rnd 17: Ch 3, dc in each st, join (72 stitches)

Brim for the Child Bucket Hat

Rnd 18: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc in 2 sts*, join (96 stitches)

Rnd 19: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (96 stitches)

Rnd 20: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc in 3 sts*, join (120 stitches)

Rnd 21: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (120 stitches)

Rnd 22: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc in 4 sts*, join (144 stitches)

Rnd 23: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (144 stitches)

Adult Size Bucket Hat Pattern Continued

Rnd 7: Ch 3, *2 dc, dc in next 5 sts*, join (84 stitches)

Rnd 8: Ch 1, sc blo in each st, join (84 stitches)

Rnd 9: Ch 3, dc in each st, join (84 stitches)

(pink yarn) Rnd 10: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (84 stitches)

(white yarn) Rnd 11: Ch 3, dc in each st, join (84 stitches)

(orange yarn) Rnd 12: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (84 stitches)

(white yarn) Rnd 13: Ch 3, dc in each st, join (84 stitches)

(yellow yarn) Rnd 14: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (84 stitches)

(white yarn) Rnd 15: Ch 3, dc in each st, join (84 stitches)

(green yarn) Rnd 16: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (84 stitches)

(white yarn) Rnd 17: Ch 3, dc in each st, join (84 stitches)

(blue yarn) Rnd 18: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (84 stitches)

(white yarn) Rnd 19: Ch 3, dc in each st, join (84 stitches)

(purple yarn) Rnd 20: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (84 stitches)

(white yarn) Rnd 21: Ch 3, dc in each st, join (84 stitches)

Brim for the Adult Bucket Hat

Rnd 22: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc in 2 sts*, join (112 stitches)

Rnd 23: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (112 stitches)

Rnd 24: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc in 3 sts*, join (140 stitches)

Rnd 25: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (140 stitches)

Rnd 26: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc in 4 sts*, join (168 stitches)

Rnd 27: Ch 2, hdc in each st, join (168 stitches)

Finishing the Bucket Hat Crochet Pattern

Fasten off and then weave in the ends.

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