Blythe Beret Crochet Pattern
Keep your family cozy and stylish all season long with this classic ribbed beret pattern, sized from tiny babies to adults.
There is something absolutely magical about autumn fashion, isn't there?
The crisp air practically begs for cozy layers, soft textures, and of course, the perfect handmade hat to top off your favorite outfit.
But finding that perfect balance of warmth and style can be tricky.
Most winter beanies feel a bit too casual for dressier days, while structured store-bought hats often pinch or fail to keep your ears warm.
That is where the French-inspired beret comes to the rescue.
It is slouchy, incredibly chic, and offers a timeless silhouette that instantly elevates any coat or sweater you pair it with.
I designed this particular pattern to solve the fit struggle once and for all.
By using a simple ribbed texture, this hat stretches comfortably to hug your head without feeling tight, trapping warm air inside its soft folds. Whether you are making a tiny version for a three-month-old baby or a sophisticated accessory for yourself, this project is a joy to work up. Let's grab our hooks and dive into the details!
Why You'll Love This Pattern
- Timeless French Style: The slouchy drape and elegant ribbed texture bring a touch of classic Parisian charm to your cold-weather wardrobe.
- Sizes for Everyone: With instructions spanning from 3-6 months up to adult women, you can make matching family sets or beautiful gifts.
- Stretchy and Comfortable: The ribbed design ensures a snug yet gentle fit that stays in place without leaving a mark on your forehead.
Materials You'll Need
- Yarn: Worsted weight yarn (Aran or 10-ply). Choose a soft acrylic, wool blend, or pure merino wool for the best drape and warmth.
- Hook: Size H/8 (5.0 mm) crochet hook (or size needed to obtain gauge).
- Notions: Yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors, and a stitch marker to keep track of your rounds.
- Yardage: Approximately 100 to 220 yards depending on the size you are making.
Gauge & Sizing
- Gauge: 14 sts and 10 rows in ribbed pattern = 4 inches (10 cm).
- Sizes included: 3-6 months, 6-12 months, Toddler, Child, and Adult Woman.
- Finished measurements: To fit head circumferences from 16 inches (baby) up to 22 inches (adult woman).
Abbreviations & Stitch Instructions
- ch: Chain - Yarn over, pull through loop.
- sl st: Slip Stitch - Insert hook, yarn over, pull through stitch and loop on hook.
- sc: Single Crochet - Insert hook, yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through both loops.
- hdc: Half Double Crochet - Yarn over, insert hook, yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through all three loops.
- blo: Back Loop Only - Work the designated stitch into the back loop only to create a ribbed texture.
- hdc2tog: Half Double Crochet Two Together - Yarn over, insert hook in first st, pull up loop, insert hook in next st, pull up loop, yarn over, pull through all loops on hook.
Pattern Notes
- Skill Level: Advanced Beginner.
- This pattern is written in US crochet terms.
- The item is worked in the round from the brim up to ensure a seamless finish.
- Tension Tip: Keep your slip stitches and ribbed stitches moderately loose; working too tightly will make the brim stiff and difficult to stretch.
- Customization Tip: You can easily adjust the slouchiness of the beret by adding or subtracting non-decrease rounds in the body section before starting the crown shaping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Crocheting the Ribbed Brim
To begin, we will work the stretchy ribbed band flat before joining it into a circle. Chain 6 (or more if you prefer a wider band). Work single crochet stitches in the back loops only (sc BLO) for each row until your band reaches the desired circumference for your chosen size, stretching slightly. Join the short ends with slip stitches to form a ring. Do not fasten off.
Step 2: Increasing for the Slouchy Beret Shape
Now, turn your work to write along the edge of the ribbed band. Work a round of single crochet evenly around the edge of the band to establish your base. In the next round, we will rapidly increase our stitch count to create the signature dramatic flare of a classic beret. Work two half double crochets (hdc) into every stitch (or every other stitch depending on the specific size) around. Join with a slip stitch to the first stitch.
Step 3: Building the Body of the Hat
Continue working in rounds without increasing to build up the height of the beret. To maintain the elegant ribbed design, alternate rounds of standard stitches or work in the back loops only. This creates those beautiful concentric ridges that make this design stand out. Work until the hat measures the recommended height for your size from the edge of the brim.
Step 4: Shaping and Closing the Crown
To bring the top of the hat together, we will perform gradual decrease rounds. Use the half double crochet two together (hdc2tog) stitch to systematically reduce your stitch count. Continue decreasing until only a small opening remains at the very top. Cut your yarn, leaving a 10-inch tail. Thread the tail onto your yarn needle, weave it through the remaining stitches, pull tightly to close the circle, and secure the end firmly on the inside of the hat.
Easy Variations & Custom Ideas
- Classic Pom-Pom: Add a fluffy yarn pom-pom or a faux-fur pom-pom to the crown for a playful, modern twist.
- Contrasting Brim: Work the ribbed band in a contrasting color to frame the face beautifully. You can learn How to Seamlessly Change Colors When Crocheting in The Round to make this transition look absolutely flawless.
- Lightweight Spring Version: Swap the worsted weight wool for a breathable cotton blend to create a transitional accessory perfect for spring.
- Matching Cowl Set: Pair this hat with a cozy neck warmer like the Clove Button Cowl for a coordinated winter look.
- Slouchy Beanie Modification: If you prefer a more casual style, check out the Bree Slouchy Hat or the textured Dream Weaver Slouch Hat for alternative slouchy designs.
- Colour ideas: Try deep mustard yellow, rich burgundy, forest green, or classic cream for a sophisticated, high-end look.
- Yarn substitutions: Any standard worsted weight yarn will work, such as Lion Brand Vanna's Choice, Red Heart Soft, or Cascade 220.
Common Troubleshooting & Fixes
- Problem: The brim is too tight and doesn't stretch over the head.
Fix: Go up a hook size just for the brim, or make sure you are working your slip stitches and single crochets with a relaxed tension. - Problem: The beret looks like a regular beanie instead of having a slouchy drape.
Fix: You may not have increased enough in Step 2, or your yarn is too stiff. Try using a softer yarn with more drape, or add an extra increase round. - Problem: The top of the hat is bunching up awkwardly at the crown.
Fix: Ensure your decrease rounds are spaced out gradually. If you decrease too quickly, the fabric will pucker instead of laying flat. - Problem: There is a visible seam running up the side of the hat.
Fix: When joining your rounds, make sure you slip stitch tightly and do not count the joining slip stitch as a stitch. Alternatively, work in continuous spiral rounds using a stitch marker.
Care Instructions
To keep your handmade beret looking pristine, hand wash it in cool water with a gentle wool wash. Squeeze out excess water by rolling it in a clean towel—never wring or twist it. Lay it flat to dry on a flat surface, shaping the circular crown gently with your hands while damp to maintain its classic silhouette.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the satisfaction of pulling a freshly finished, stylish hat over your ears on a chilly morning. This beret is a wonderful project for practicing your shaping and ribbing techniques while creating something truly beautiful. Happy crocheting, and I cannot wait to see your finished creations!