How To Finish Knitting A Hat

In this blog post, you will see how to finish knitting a hat.

After knitting your cozy hat, you need to take some steps to finish it off and get it ready to wear.

A hat is a great project for beginner knitters.

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know. 

How To Finish Knitting A Hat With Straight Needles?

Finishing knitting a hat with straight needles involves several steps, including seaming the hat to create a round shape.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you finish your hat:

1. Decrease and bind off

• Decrease stitches: Follow your pattern to decrease stitches at the crown of the hat. This usually involves decreasing on both the right side (RS) and wrong side (WS) rows.
• Cut the yarn: Once you have a small number of stitches left (usually between 6 to 10), cut the yarn, leaving a tail about 12 inches long.

2. Gather the top of your hat

• Thread the yarn tail: Using a tapestry needle, thread the yarn tail.
• Gather the stitches: Insert the needle through the remaining stitches, pulling the yarn through each one. This gathers the top of the hat.
• Secure the top: Pull the yarn tight to close the hole at the top of the hat. Pass the needle through the stitches again if needed to secure it tightly.

3. Seam the hat

• Fold the hat: Fold the hat in half with the right sides (the outside of the hat) facing each other, lining up the edges.
• Mattress stitch: Using the tapestry needle and the long yarn tail, sew the sides of the main part of the hat together using the mattress stitch. This creates an invisible seam on the right side of the fabric.

You can view a simple pattern knit on straight needles here: How To Knit A Hat For Complete Beginners.

The video tutorial below will show how to knit a hat on straight needles and how to finish the hat.

How To Finish Knitting A Hat On Circular Knitting Needles?

Finishing a hat knitted on circular needles involves decreasing stitches, closing the top, and weaving in the ends.

Here’s a detailed guide to help you finish your hat:

1. Decrease stitches

• Follow your pattern: Most hat patterns will include instructions for decreasing stitches towards the crown. Typically, you’ll use decreases like knit two together (k2tog) or slip, slip, knit (ssk) to reduce the number of stitches.
• Switch to Double-Pointed Needles (DPNs) if necessary: As the number of stitches decreases, it may become difficult to continue on circular needles. Switch to DPNs when you have too few stitches to comfortably knit on circular needles.

2. Cut the yarn and gather stitches

• Leave a tail: Once you have a small number of stitches left (usually between 6 to 10), cut the yarn, leaving a tail about 6-12 inches long.
• Thread the yarn tail: Using a tapestry needle, thread the yarn tail.
• Gather the stitches: Insert the needle through the remaining stitches, pulling the yarn through each one. This gathers the top of the hat.

3. Secure the top

• Pull tight: Pull the yarn tight to close the hole at the top of the hat.
• Secure the yarn: Pass the needle through the stitches again or tie a knot to ensure the top is securely closed.

4. Weave in the ends

• Inside of the hat: Turn the hat inside out to access the inside.
• Weave in tails: Using the tapestry needle, weave in any loose yarn tails into the stitches on the inside of the hat. This secures the yarn and hides the ends.
• Trim excess: Trim any excess yarn close to the fabric after weaving in.

5. Block the hat (optional)

• Shape the finished hat: To give your hat a professional finish, you can block it. Soak the hat in lukewarm water, gently squeeze out excess water, and shape it to the desired size.
• Dry the hat: Allow the hat to dry flat on a towel or over a hat form.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your hat is finished neatly and ready to wear.

You can view a hat pattern knit on circular needles here: How To Knit A Hat With Circular Needles.

How To Finish Knitting A Hat On Double Pointed Needles?

Finishing a hat knitted on double-pointed needles (DPNs) involves decreasing stitches, closing the top, and weaving in the ends.

Here’s a detailed guide to help you finish your hat:

1. Decrease stitches

• Follow your pattern: Most hat patterns will include instructions for decreasing stitches towards the crown. Typically, you’ll use decreases like knit two together (k2tog) or slip, slip, knit (ssk) to reduce the number of stitches.
• Even distribution: As you decrease, ensure that the stitches are evenly distributed across your DPNs to avoid any gaps or tight spots.

2. Cut the yarn and gather stitches

• Leave a tail: Once you have a small number of stitches left (usually between 6 to 10), cut the yarn, leaving a tail about 6-12 inches long.
• Thread the yarn tail: Using a tapestry needle, thread the yarn tail.
• Gather the stitches: Insert the needle through the remaining stitches, pulling the yarn through each one. This gathers the top of the hat.

3. Secure the top

• Pull tight: Pull the yarn tight to close the hole at the top of the hat.
• Secure the yarn: Pass the needle through the stitches again or tie a knot to ensure the top is securely closed.

4. Weave in the ends

• Inside of the hat: Turn the hat inside out to access the inside.
• Weave in tails: Using the tapestry needle, weave in any loose yarn tails into the stitches on the inside of the hat. This secures the yarn and hides the ends.
• Trim excess: Trim any excess yarn close to the fabric after weaving in.

5. Block the hat (optional)

• Shape the hat: To give your hat a professional finish, you can block it. Soak the hat in lukewarm water, gently squeeze out excess water, and shape it to the desired size.
• Dry the hat: Allow the hat to dry flat on a towel or over a hat form.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your hat is finished neatly and ready to wear.

How Do You Shape The Top Of A Knitted Beanie?

Shaping the top of a knitted beanie involves gradually decreasing the number of stitches as you approach the crown, creating a rounded shape that fits nicely on the head.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to shaping the top of your beanie:

1. Follow Your Pattern

• Pattern Instructions: Most patterns will provide specific instructions on where and how to decrease stitches to shape the top. Follow these instructions carefully.

2. General Decreasing Method

If you’re working without a specific pattern, you can use a general method to shape the top of your beanie:

Working in the Round

1. Divide Stitches: If working with circular or double-pointed needles, divide your stitches evenly among 3 or 4 needles.
2. Begin Decreases:
   • For a basic decrease, you can use the knit two together (k2tog) method.
   • Example: Knit 8, k2tog around.
   • On the next round: Knit 7, k2tog around.
   • Continue in this pattern, reducing the number of stitches between decreases in each round (knit 6, k2tog; knit 5, k2tog, etc.).
3. Switch to Double-Pointed Needles: As the number of stitches decreases and becomes tight on the circular needle, switch to double-pointed needles.
4. Final Decrease Rounds:
   • When you have few stitches left, typically 10-12, cut the yarn leaving a 6-12 inch tail.
   • Using a tapestry needle, thread the yarn tail (the working yarn) through the remaining stitches and pull tight to close the top of the hat.

Working Flat

1. Begin Decreases:
   • On a right-side row, you can start decreasing by knitting two together (k2tog) or slip, slip, knit (ssk).
   • Example: Knit 8, k2tog across the row.
   • On the next wrong-side row, purl across.
   • On the next right-side row: Knit 7, k2tog across.
   • Continue in this pattern, reducing the number of stitches between decreases in each right-side row (knit 6, k2tog; knit 5, k2tog, etc.).
2. Final Decrease Rows:
   • When you have few stitches left, typically 10-12, cut the yarn leaving a 6-12 inch tail.
   • Using a tapestry needle, thread the yarn tail through the remaining stitches and pull tight to close the top of the hat.
3. Seam the Hat: Fold the hat in half with right sides together and seam the sides using mattress stitch or another preferred method.

3. Weave in the Ends

• Weave in Tails: Turn the hat inside out and use a tapestry needle to weave in any loose ends securely into the fabric.

4. Block the Hat (Optional)

• Shape the Hat: To give your hat a finished look, you can block it by soaking it in lukewarm water, gently squeezing out the excess water, and shaping it to the desired size.
• Dry the Hat: Allow the hat to dry flat on a towel or over a hat form.

By following these steps, you can shape the top of your beanie to create a smooth, rounded finish.

Learn how to decrease stitches here – How To Decrease Knitting (6 Ways) 

How Do You Weave In The Ends Of A Knitting Beanie?    

Weaving in the ends of a knitting beanie is essential for securing loose yarn tails and giving your project a polished finish.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Gather your supplies

• Tapestry Needle: A blunt-tipped needle with a large eye for threading yarn.
• Scissors: To trim the excess yarn.

2. Prepare the beanie

• Turn Inside Out: Turn your beanie inside out so you can weave in the ends on the wrong side, making them less visible from the right side.

3. Weaving in the yarn ends

1. Thread the Yarn Tail:
   • Thread the yarn tail through the eye of the tapestry needle.
2. Choose a Method:
   • Duplicate Stitch: This method follows the path of the original stitches, blending the tail seamlessly into the fabric.
     • Insert the needle under a few stitches along the same row, mimicking the path of the yarn.
     • Pull the yarn through and repeat for a few more stitches in the same direction.
   • Weave in Horizontally: This method is good for ribbing or garter stitch.
     • Insert the needle horizontally under the purl bumps or along the columns of stitches.
     • Weave the yarn in one direction for a few stitches, then reverse direction and weave back.
   • Weave in Vertically: This method is useful for stockinette stitch.
     • Insert the needle vertically under the knit stitches, following the column of stitches.
     • Weave the yarn up and down a few stitches, then reverse direction and weave back.
3. Secure the Tail:
   • After weaving in for about 2-3 inches, pull the yarn slightly taut but not so tight that it distorts the fabric.
4. Trim the Excess Yarn:
   • Carefully trim the excess yarn close to the fabric without cutting the stitches.

4. Weave in multiple ends

• Repeat the Process: Repeat the above steps for any other loose ends in your beanie.

5. Turn the beanie right side out

• Final Check: Turn your beanie right side out and check for any visible yarn tails or irregularities.

Tips for weaving in ends

• Match the Weaving Pattern: Try to follow the stitch pattern of your knitting to make the woven ends blend seamlessly.
• Avoid Bulky Knots: Do not tie knots to secure the ends, as they can create lumps and are less secure than properly woven ends.
• Securely Weave: Make sure the woven ends are secure enough to withstand washing and wearing.

By following these steps, you can weave in the ends of your knitting beanie neatly and securely, ensuring a professional and durable finish.

What tool is used to weave in ends?

The tool used to weave in ends in knitting is called a “yarn needle” or “darning needle.” 

A yarn needle is a large-eyed, blunt-tipped needle designed specifically for working with yarn. 

It allows you to easily thread the yarn through the eye of the needle and weave it through the stitches of your knitted fabric.

Yarn needles come in various sizes, materials (such as metal or plastic), and shapes.

Some have a bent tip, making it easier to navigate through stitches. 

The blunt tip ensures that you don’t split the yarn fibers as you weave in the ends.

When finishing a knitting project, especially when weaving in loose ends or seaming pieces together, a yarn needle is an essential tool for achieving a clean and polished result. 

How Do You Block Hand Knitted Hats?

Blocking a hand-knitted hat is a process that helps to shape and set the stitches, as well as improve the overall appearance of the finished piece. 

The method you use to block a hat will depend on the fiber content of the yarn and your personal preference.

Here are general steps for blocking a hand-knitted hat:

Wet Blocking:

1. Prepare Your Hat:
   • Ensure that your hat is clean and free of any debris. If you’ve just finished knitting, weave in the ends.
2. Fill a Basin with Water:
   • Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water, as it may cause the yarn to lose its shape or color.
3. Soak the Hat:
   • Submerge the hat in the water and gently press it down to ensure it’s completely soaked. Allow it to soak for 15-30 minutes. This helps the fibers relax and allows you to shape the hat.
4. Drain Excess Water:
   • Carefully remove the hat from the water and gently press out excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the hat, as this can distort the stitches.
5. Shape the Hat:
   • Place the hat on a clean, dry towel. Gently shape it to the desired size and form. Pay attention to the brim, crown, and any other specific shaping elements.
6. Roll in Towel:
   • Roll the hat in the towel to absorb more moisture. Press down gently to remove excess water.
7. Use Blocking Aids (Optional):
   • If your hat has specific shaping requirements, you can use blocking aids like foam heads or special hat forms to help maintain the shape while drying.
8. Allow to Air Dry:
   • Place the hat on a flat, dry surface, ensuring it retains its desired shape. Allow it to air dry completely.

Steam Blocking:

1. Prepare Your Hat:
   • Ensure that your hat is clean and free of any debris. If you’ve just finished knitting, weave in the ends.
2. Steam the Hat:
   • Hold a steam iron or steamer several inches above the hat. Hover over the fabric without making direct contact, moving the iron or steamer in a sweeping motion. The steam helps relax the fibers.
3. Shape the Hat:
   • While steaming, gently shape the hat to the desired size and form. Pay attention to the brim, crown, and any other specific shaping elements.
4. Allow to Cool:
   • Allow the hat to cool and set the shape. The cooling process helps the fibers retain the new shape.
5. Check the Fit:
   • Once the hat is dry or cool, check the fit and shape. Make any adjustments as needed.

Remember that not all yarns respond well to wet blocking, and some delicate fibers may be better suited for steam blocking. 

Always check the care instructions for the specific yarn you used in your hat.

Blocking helps improve the overall look and fit of your hand-knitted hat, ensuring it looks its best when worn. 

Learn everything about blocking here – Blocking Knits – How To Block Knitting Guide 

Should you weave in ends before or after blocking? 

Whether to weave in ends before or after blocking in knitting depends on various factors, including personal preference and the nature of the project. 

Weaving in ends before blocking can be advantageous for ease of handling and reduces the risk of yarn unraveling during the blocking process. 

However, if blocking significantly alters the shape of the item, it might be more practical to weave in ends after blocking to ensure the final shape and dimensions are accurately assessed.

Regardless of the chosen approach, it’s crucial to weave in ends securely to prevent unraveling. 

Ultimately, the decision between weaving in ends before or after blocking often comes down to individual knitting habits and the specific characteristics of the project at hand.

Knitting Lessons

If you are a beginner knitter and need help with the knitting basics, check out the knitting lessons here – 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 knit the knit stitch, how to purl the purl stitch, the stockinette stitch, the rib stitch, the garter stitch, the mattress stitch, the magic loop method, short rows, and a list of knitting abbreviations, and more. 

And if you need more video tutorials, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube.  

Free Hat Knitting Patterns

• Ribbed Beanie Knitting Pattern {Unisex Mariner’s Hat}
• Knitted Cat Hat – Free Knitting Pattern
• Irish Moss Stitch Hat Pattern
• Chunky Knit Beanie Pattern
• Knitted Elf Hat Pattern
• Cable Hat Free Knitting Pattern
• Seed Stitch Hat Pattern
• Candy Corn Hat Knitting Pattern
• Free Slouchy Hat Knitting Pattern | The Phoebe
• Cable Hat Free Knitting Pattern | The Bordeaux