Need the perfect measurements for your next crochet beanie? Use this comprehensive crochet hat size chart to ensure your handmade hats fit perfectly every time.
whether you’re making a newborn beanie or an adult-sized hat.
Crochet Hat Size Chart by Age
Use this chart for any crochet beanie pattern.
These measurements work for hats worked flat or in the round.
| Age | Head Circumference | Finished Hat Circumference (Flat Panel Width) | Fitted Beanie Height | With Folded Brim |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0–3 months | 33–36 cm (13–14″) | 31–34 cm (12–13″) | 13–15 cm (5–6″) | 18–22 cm (7–8.5″) |
| 3–6 months | 36–41 cm (14–16″) | 34–39 cm (13–15″) | 15–16 cm (6–6.5″) | 20–23 cm (8–9″) |
| 6–12 months | 41–46 cm (16–18″) | 39–44 cm (15–17″) | 16–17 cm (6.5–7″) | 21–24 cm (8–9.5″) |
| 1–3 years | 46–48 cm (18–19″) | 44–46 cm (17–18″) | 18–19 cm (7–7.5″) | 23–26 cm (9–10″) |
| 3–5 years | 48–50 cm (19–20″) | 46–48 cm (18–19″) | 19–20 cm (7.5–8″) | 24–27 cm (9.5–10.5″) |
| 5–10 years | 50–52 cm (20–20.5″) | 48–50 cm (19–20″) | 20–21 cm (8–8.5″) | 25–28 cm (10–11″) |
| Teen/Small Adult | 52–55 cm (20.5–21.5″) | 50–53 cm (19.5–21″) | 20–22 cm (8–8.5″) | 25–29 cm (10–11.5″) |
| Adult Medium | 55–58 cm (21.5–23″) | 53–56 cm (21–22″) | 21–23 cm (8–9″) | 26–30 cm (10–12″) |
| Adult Large/XL | 58–61 cm (23–24″) | 56–59 cm (22–23″) | 22–24 cm (8.5–9.5″) | 27–31 cm (10.5–12″) |
💡 Quick Tip: These measurements are averages. Always measure the recipient’s head when possible for the most accurate fit.
How to Measure for a Crochet Hat
Measuring Head Circumference
- Use a soft measuring tape and wrap it around the widest part of the head
- Position it about 1 cm above the eyebrows and ears
- Keep it level all the way around
- Note the measurement where the tape overlaps
- Subtract 2-4 cm of negative ease for a snug, comfortable fit
Measuring Hat Height
For a fitted beanie (no fold):
- Measure from the crown of the head to just above the eyebrows
- This creates a beanie that sits close to the head
For a slouchy or folded brim beanie:
- Add 5–7 cm to the fitted height
- This gives you extra length to fold up or create a slouch
Understanding the Measurements
What is “Hat Width (Flat)”?
This is the measurement you need if you’re:
- Crocheting a beanie worked flat (in rows) then seamed
- Making a panel that will be folded and sewn
- Following a flat beanie pattern
Important: The flat width is slightly smaller than head circumference because the fabric stretches when worn.
Head Circumference vs. Hat Circumference
Your finished hat should be 2-4 cm smaller than the actual head circumference. This is called “negative ease” and it ensures:
- The hat stays on securely
- It doesn’t slide around
- It has a comfortable, snug fit
Pro Tips for Perfect-Fitting Beanies
1. Consider Yarn Stretch
- High stretch (ribbing, acrylic): Use the smaller measurement
- Low stretch (cotton, tight stitches): Use the larger measurement or add 1-2 cm
- Example: An adult with 56 cm head circumference might need a 51 cm beanie in stretchy ribbed acrylic, but a 54 cm beanie in non-stretchy cotton
2. Test Your Gauge
Make a gauge swatch with your chosen:
- Yarn weight
- Hook size
- Stitch pattern
This ensures your measurements will be accurate.
3. Try It On As You Go
If the recipient is available, try the hat on during construction. This is especially important for:
- Babies (heads grow fast!)
- People with larger or smaller than average heads
- Custom orders
4. When in Doubt, Go Bigger
- For babies and children: They’ll grow into it
- For adults: A slightly loose hat is more comfortable than one that’s too tight
- For gifts when you don’t know the size: Adult Medium is the safest bet
5. Adjust for Hair Thickness
- Thick hair, locs, or braids: Add 2-3 cm to the hat circumference
- Very short or no hair: Use the smaller end of the size range
Common Crochet Hat Sizing Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
❌ Mistake #1: Not Accounting for Stretch
Solution: Always stretch your work slightly when measuring width.
Different yarns have different stretch factors.
❌ Mistake #2: Making the Height Too Short
Solution: Beanies should cover the ears comfortably.
When in doubt, add an extra cm or two.
❌ Mistake #3: Using the Wrong Measurement for Flat Patterns
Solution: Remember that flat width ≠ head circumference.
The hat stretches around the head.
❌ Mistake #4: Forgetting About Brim Style
Solution: Decide if you want a folded brim BEFORE you start and use the correct height measurement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use this chart for any crochet stitch?
A: Yes! These are universal measurements. Just adjust for how stretchy your particular stitch pattern is.
Q: What if I’m between sizes?
A: Go with the larger size for comfort, or measure the recipient’s head directly.
Q: Do these measurements work for hats worked in the round?
A: Absolutely. For hats worked in the round, use the “Head Circumference” column as your target circumference.
Q: How do I convert between cm and inches?
A: Multiply cm by 0.39 to get inches, or multiply inches by 2.54 to get cm.
Q: Should I add extra for hair volume?
A: Yes! Add 2-3 cm for very thick hair, braids, or locs.
Want to See This in Action?
This sizing guide works with any crochet beanie pattern, whether you’re working flat or in the round.
For a complete step-by-step tutorial on how to crochet a beanie using the flat method with these exact measurements, check out my YouTube channel for video demonstrations.
Save this crochet hat size chart for your next project! With these measurements, you’ll never have to guess at sizing again, every beanie will fit perfectly the first time.
Last updated: November 2025
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