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Bucket Hat Knitting Pattern (Free And Easy To Knit)

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In this blog post, you will see a bucket hat knitting pattern (free and easy to knit).

This quick, simple bucket style hat is super easy, knit flat, and seamed.

Made with Pima cotton yarn, knit on size 4 mm (US 6) straight needles.

Please scroll down to view the free pattern online, or grab the inexpensive ad-free PDF in my shop here.

Knitted bucket hat and shawl

Make A Knitted Bucket Hat

The bucket hat knitting pattern is a great pattern for a beginner.

The sun hat is knit in The Cotton from We Are Knitters in one color.

Perfect to wear with the brim turned up or turned down.

Hats are the ultimate accessory; from cozy winter hats to breezy sun hats, there is a hat for anyone. 

A summer bucket hat is also a great stash buster, as you only need one skein of yarn. 

Bucket Hat Knitting Pattern (Free And Easy To Knit)

Bucket Hat Knitting Pattern

Skill Level – Basic (Beginner)

Notes

This hat is knit flat using either straight needles or circular needles.

The hat is then seamed using the mattress stitch when complete.

The brim is knit with two strands together, which can seem a little tight on the 4 mm/US 6 needles but is better for the shape.

If you decide to go up a needle size for the brim, it is not advised because it will be too big and floppy later.

Copyright Info

  • Please do not copy, sell, redistribute, or republish this pattern. 
  • If you wish to share this pattern, please provide a link to the pattern page only.
  • You may sell items produced using this pattern.
  • Do NOT use the copyrighted photos for your product listing.
  • For the copyright T&C, please read my Terms of Use.

The stitches and techniques you need to know…

The stitches used in this pattern are the knit stitch, the purl stitch, the garter stitch, and the stockinette stitch.

The technique you will need to know is K2tog (knit the next two stitches together) used to decrease.

The bucket hat is created with a garter stitch brim (which is floppy not stiff) and the stockinette stitch is used for the main body of the hat.

Gauge

  • 18 sts/36 rows in 10×10 cm/4×4 inches of garter stitch.
  • 18sts/26 rows in 10×10 cm/4×4 inches of stockinette stitch.

Measurements/Sizes

  • Hat circumference = 46 cm/18 inches
  • Height including brim = 23 cm/9 inches
  • It will fit an average head size (it is looser because of the cotton)
knitted bucket hat and knitted top

The supplies you need…

Yarn

  • 1 x We Are Knitters – The Cotton in the color Natural.
  • This cotton is 100% Pima Cotton/10g/3.05oz/232 yds/212m.
  • Use my code – MGM4VHHAT – for 10 off on your WAK yarn order.

Needles

Notions

  • Scissors.
  • Darning needle/tapestry needle.
  • Tape measure.
  • Stitch markers.

Abbreviations

You can grab a free list of US and UK knitting terms here.

  • CO – cast on
  • Cont – continue
  • K – knit
  • K2tog – Knit the next two stitches together (decrease)
  • Garter stitch – every row knit
  • P – purl
  • PM – place marker
  • SM – slip marker
  • St(s) – stitch(es)
  • St, st – stockinette stitch
  • Rep – repeat
  • RS – right side
  • WS – wrong side
Bucket hat back view

Bucket Hat Knitting Pattern

The Brim

With 4 mm (US 6) knitting needles and two strands together of the Pima cotton CO 120 sts.

Work in garter stitch for 5 cm/2 inches, ending on a WS row.

The Main Body Of The Hat

You will continue to work the hat using one strand of yarn only…

Row 1 (RS): *K2, K2tog* – rep from * to * to the end of the row. (90 sts)

Row 2 (WS): Purl

Cont to work in st, st until the piece measures 17 cm/6.5 inches from the CO edge, ending on a WS row.

Decreasing The Hat

  • Row 1 (RS): K8, PM, *K9, PM* – Rep from * to * to last st, K1.
  • Row 2 (WS): Purl (slipping all markers).
  • Row 3: K6, K2tog, SM, *K7, K2tog, SM* – Rep from * to * to the last marker, SM, K1. (80 sts)
  • Row 4: Purl (slipping all markers).
  • Row 5: K5, K2tog, SM, *K6, K2tog, SM* – Rep from * to * to the last marker, SM, K1. (70 sts)
  • Row 6: Purl (slipping all markers).
  • Row 7: K4, K2tog, SM, *K5, K2tog, SM* – Rep from * to * to the last marker, SM, K1. (60 sts)
  • Row 8: Purl (slipping all markers).
  • Row 9: K3, K2tog, SM, *K4, K2tog, SM* – Rep from * to * to the last marker, SM, K1. (50 sts)
  • Row 10: Purl (slipping all markers).
  • Row 11: K2, K2tog, SM, *K3, K2tog, SM* – Rep from * to * to the last marker, SM, K1. (40 sts)
  • Row 12: Purl (slipping all markers).
  • Row 13: K1, K2tog, SM, *K2, K2tog, SM* – Rep from * to * to the last marker, SM, K1. (30 sts)
  • Row 14: Purl (slipping all markers).
  • Row 15: K2tog, SM, *K1, K2tog, SM* – Rep from * to * to the last marker, SM, K1. (20 sts)
  • Row 16: Purl (slipping all markers).
  • Row 17: K1, SM, *K2tog, SM* – Rep from * to * to the last marker, SM, K1. (11 sts)
  • Row 18: Purl (removing all markers).

Cut the yarn and thread through the darning needle, then thread through the rem sts on the needle, pulling uptight and starting to seam the hat closed using the mattress stitch.

The mattress stitch is an invisible seam and will make the closing of the hat look neat.

Weave in all loose ends.

Bucket hat knit in cotton and cotton top

Shop the printable PDF pattern…

Please scroll down to view the free pattern online, or grab the inexpensive ad-free PDF in my shop here.

Grab The Ad-Free Printable Bucket Hat Knitting Pattern Here…

shop Now!

Could you share your work with us?

If you enjoyed making the bucket hat knitting pattern, I’d love to see yours on Instagram, be sure to tag me @handylittleme or #handylittleme.

If you are on Facebook, stop over to the handylittleme Facebook group and share a photo.

You can also find us on Pinterest, Ravelry, and YouTube.

I’d love to see your work!

knitted bucket hat

Bucket Hat Patterns Come In Many Sizes And Designs

You can make yours in one solid color, or if you have a specific color scheme in mind, you can use variegated yarn or colorful yarn scraps for a cheerful design. 

A cool hat to make would be a furry bucket hat, which you can easily make with a faux fur yarn. 

You can have a bucket hat with a really simple design and a narrow brim or wide brim you can turn up. 

The bucket design gives you a lot of room to create beautiful hats.

Knitted bucket hat and shawl
This bucket hat knitting pattern is great for beginners.

Why Knit A Bucket Hat?

A bucket hat is a great summer project to make.

It’s the perfect accessory to tie every outfit together

​It offers sun protection and helps to keep your head cool. 

What Is The Best Yarn For A Knitted Bucket Hat?

Worsted Weight or DK Weight Yarn

The best yarn weight for a knit bucket hat pattern can vary depending on the desired thickness, drape, and overall look of the hat. 

Typically, a medium-weight yarn, also known as worsted weight or DK weight yarn, is a versatile choice for bucket hats. 

This weight strikes a balance between being substantial enough to provide warmth and structure while still allowing the hat to drape nicely and feel comfortable on the head. 

You can play around with colors of DK weight yarn.

Fingering Weight Yarn

However, if you prefer a lighter and airier hat, you might consider using a lighter weight yarn such as sport weight or fingering weight. 

These yarns will result in a hat with a finer texture and are suitable for warmer climates or for achieving a more delicate look.

Bulky Weight Yarn

On the other hand, if you’re aiming for a chunkier, more substantial hat with added warmth, you could opt for a heavier weight yarn such as bulky or super bulky. 

These yarns will create a thicker fabric and are ideal for colder weather or for making a statement with a bold, textured hat.

Ultimately, the best yarn weight for your knitted bucket hat will depend on your personal preferences, the intended use of the hat, and the look you want to achieve. 

Experimenting with different yarn weights through swatching can help you determine which weight works best for your project.

Bucket hat knitting pattern and summer shawl

Yarn Fibers

The best yarn for a knitted bucket hat largely depends on personal preferences and the intended use of the hat. 

However, a popular choice among knitters is cotton yarn for its breathability and lightweight feel, making it suitable for warmer climates and casual, everyday wear. 

Acrylic yarns are another common option due to their affordability, softness, and wide range of colors, making it ideal for those seeking versatility and easy care. 

For colder climates, wool yarn provides warmth and natural elasticity, helping the hat retain its shape while offering a cozy feel. 

Additionally, blended yarns combining different fibers can offer a balance of qualities, such as the warmth of wool combined with the softness of acrylic. 

Ultimately, the best yarn choice will depend on factors such as climate, desired aesthetic, and wearer’s preferences for comfort and functionality.

Learn everything about yarn fibers here – Yarn Types Explained: A Guide To Different Fibers 

How much yarn do you need for a bucket hat?

The amount of yarn needed for a knitted bucket hat can vary depending on several factors, including the yarn weight, the size of the hat, the stitch pattern used, and the desired slouchiness or brim length. 

One skein of medium weight yarn is usually enough to make a summer bucket hat. Keep in mind that if you are making a smaller size for example for a teen you will need less yarn and if you are making a larger size. you will need more yarn. 

The yarn weight also affects the amount of yarn you will need. If you are using thicker yarn, for example, bulky weight yarn, you might need more. 

As a general tip, whenever you are knitting, it’s a good thing to have some extra yarn. 

Related Post: How Much Yarn Do I Need For A Knitting Project?

What Are The Best Knitting Needles For A Bucket Hat? 

  • When knitting a bucket hat, the best knitting needles to use are circular needles. 
  • A Circular knitting needle allows you to work seamlessly in the round, eliminating the need for seaming and ensuring a smooth finish. 
  • Opt for a needle size that matches the yarn weight and gauge required by your pattern. 
  • Smaller needles for lighter yarns and bigger needles for thicker yarns. 
  • A 16-inch (40 cm) circular needle is commonly used for hat projects, as it provides enough length to accommodate the stitches while still allowing for comfortable knitting in the round. 
  • Double-pointed needles can also be used to knit a bucket hat.  
  • However, if you are a new maker and a circular needle seems a bit intimidating for you, you can always use your straight knitting needles to make your own hat. 
  • Additionally, consider the material of the needles based on your preference for grip and smoothness; metal needles offer slickness for easy stitch movement, while wooden or bamboo needles provide more grip. 
  • Ultimately, the best knitting needles are those that feel comfortable in your hands and help you achieve the desired results for your bucket hat project.

How To Measure For A Knitted Bucket Hat?  

To measure for a knitted bucket hat, you’ll need a flexible measuring tape. Follow these steps:

  1. Measure Head Circumference: Place the measuring tape around the widest part of the head, typically across the forehead and just above the ears. Ensure the tape is snug but not too tight. Record the measurement in inches or centimeters.
  2. Determine Hat Size: Use the head circumference measurement to determine the appropriate hat size. Compare the measurement to standard sizing charts for hats. Sizes may vary slightly depending on the pattern or sizing system used, so refer to the specific pattern you’ll be using for guidance.
  3. Consider Ease: Depending on personal preference and the style of the hat, you may want to add ease to the measurement. Ease refers to the amount of extra space added to the head circumference to ensure a comfortable fit. For a snug-fitting hat, use the exact head circumference measurement. For a slightly looser fit, add 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) to the head circumference.
  4. Adjust for Yarn Stretch: Keep in mind that the type of yarn used can affect the stretchiness of the finished hat. If you’re using a stretchy yarn or ribbing stitch pattern, you may want to subtract a small amount from the head circumference measurement to account for the natural stretch of the fabric.

By measuring the head circumference accurately and considering factors like ease and yarn stretch, you can ensure that your knitted bucket hat will fit comfortably and flatteringly.

Knitted bucket hat back view

Knitting Lessons

If you are a new knitter and need help with the knitting basics, check out these posts here and be your own knitting instructor – Knitting Lessons (With Video Tutorials).

There, you will find step-by-step tutorials for all the different knitting techniques a newbie needs to know.

Including how to cast on, how to bind off, how to knit the basic knit stitches, how to knit the knit stitch, how to knit the purl stitch, the stockinette stitch, the rib stitch, the garter stitch, the mattress stitch, short rows, how to yarn over(yo), how to measure pattern gauge, how to fix knitting mistakes, and a list of knitting abbreviations (UK + US terms), and more.

For an easy level knitting pattern, check out this pattern category for more recommendations, there, you will find a range of knitting patterns- Beginner Knitters

For a complete guide on learning how to knit, check out this post: How to Knit – A Complete Beginner’s Guide

And if you need more video tutorials to help you practice your basic knitting skills, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube.

You might also want to make matching items…

You may also want to make matching items to take with you on vacation!

View those patterns here:

For a collection of free bucket hat knitting patterns, check out this round-up – 7 Knit Summer Hats 

Resources and tutorials you may find helpful in following this pattern:

This pattern is great for beginners and advanced beginners.

More Patterns You May Be Interested In…

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