Reese Chunky Slouch Hat

Get the cozy, classic look of knitting with the speed of crochet in this gorgeous, textured slouchy beanie.

Have you ever stared longingly at a gorgeous, store-bought knit beanie and wished your crochet hook could mimic those perfect "V" stitches?

I used to feel that exact same envy. For years, I struggled to find a crochet technique that didn't look overly bulky or stiff when trying to replicate knitwear.

Then, I discovered the magic of working into the back loops with super chunky yarn.

This technique completely changed the game for me, offering incredible drape and a fabric that stretches beautifully.

Today, I am thrilled to walk you through making the Reese Slouch, a project that combines the rustic charm of knitting with the satisfying speed of a large crochet hook.

Grab your favorite super bulky yarn, and let's create a cozy masterpiece together.

Why You'll Love This Pattern

• Knit-Alike Texture: You get the beautiful, classic look of knit ribbing using simple crochet stitches.
• Super Fast Project: Thanks to the thick yarn and large hook, you can easily finish this hat in a single evening.
• Family Friendly: With four distinct sizes included, you can make matching hats for everyone from toddlers to adults.

Materials You'll Need

• Yarn: Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick or Big Twist Natural Blend (Super Bulky, Weight 6)
• Hook: Size N/P (10mm) crochet hook
• Notions: Tapestry needle, sharp scissors, and an optional faux fur pom-pom
• Yardage: Approximately 80 to 110 yards depending on the size you choose

Gauge & Sizing

• Gauge: 8 stitches and 7 rows in back loop half double crochet = 4 inches (10 cm)
• Sizes included: Toddler, Child, Preteen/Adult Small, Adult Medium/Large
• Finished measurements:
  • Toddler: Fits 18–19" head circumference
  • Child: Fits 19–20" head circumference
  • Preteen/Adult Small: Fits 21–22" head circumference
  • Adult Medium/Large: Fits 23–24" head circumference

Abbreviations & Stitch Instructions

• ch: Chain
• sl st: Slip stitch (Insert hook, yarn over, pull through stitch and loop on hook)
• 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 your stitch only into the back loop of the designated stitch to create the ribbed knit look)
• st(s): Stitch(es)

Pattern Notes

• Skill Level: Easy
• This pattern is written in US crochet terms.
• The item is worked flat as a rectangle and then seamed together.
• Keep your slip stitches loose to ensure the hook glides easily in the next row.
• Adjust the initial chain length if you want a more slouchy or more fitted beanie.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Foundation and Ribbed Body

We will begin by working the main body of the hat as a flat rectangle. The length of your starting chain determines the height of your hat, while the number of rows determines the circumference.

Toddler Size:

Chain 20.

Row 1: Hdc in the 3rd chain from your hook and in each chain across, turn. (18 sts)

Row 2: Ch 2, hdc blo in each stitch across, turn. (18 sts)

Repeat Row 2 until your piece measures 16 inches unstretched.

Child Size:

Chain 22.

Row 1: Hdc in the 3rd chain from your hook and in each chain across, turn. (20 sts)

Row 2: Ch 2, hdc blo in each stitch across, turn. (20 sts)

Repeat Row 2 until your piece measures 17.5 inches unstretched.

Preteen/Adult Small Size:

Chain 24.

Row 1: Hdc in the 3rd chain from your hook and in each chain across, turn. (22 sts)

Row 2: Ch 2, hdc blo in each stitch across, turn. (22 sts)

Repeat Row 2 until your piece measures 19 inches unstretched.

Adult Medium/Large Size:

Chain 26.

Row 1: Hdc in the 3rd chain from your hook and in each chain across, turn. (24 sts)

Row 2: Ch 2, hdc blo in each stitch across, turn. (24 sts)

Repeat Row 2 until your piece measures 20.5 inches unstretched.

Step 2: Seaming the Sides

Fold your finished rectangle in half, bringing the short ends together. Align the stitches of the first row with the stitches of the last row.

Using your crochet hook, slip stitch through both layers to join the sides together, forming a tube. Alternatively, you can use a tapestry needle and a mattress stitch for an invisible seam.

Step 3: Closing the Crown and Adding the Pom-Pom

Cut your yarn, leaving a long tail of about 15 inches. Thread this tail onto your tapestry needle.

Weave the needle in and out of the row ends along the top edge of your tube. Once you have gone all the way around, pull the yarn tail firmly to cinch the top of the hat closed.

Knot the yarn securely to hold the cinch in place. Sew your faux fur pom-pom to the top of the hat, then weave in all remaining loose ends on the inside of the hat.

Easy Variations & Custom Ideas

• Matching Cowl: Pair this slouchy hat with a matching Knit Look Chunky Cowl for a complete winter set.
• Fitted Beanie Style: Reduce the starting chain by 3 to 4 chains to make a snug-fitting beanie instead of a slouchy style.
• Striped Version: Change colors every four rows. Learn How to Seamlessly Change Colors to keep your seam looking neat.
• Classic Fold-over Brim: Add 6 chains to your starting chain to create a wide, cozy folded brim.
• Yarn Substitutions: If you cannot find Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick, try other super bulky yarns like Bernat Softee Chunky or Buttercream Luxe Craft.
• Colour ideas: Neutral tones like oatmeal, charcoal, or cream give a classic, high-end look, while mustard yellow or forest green adds a fun pop of color.

Common Troubleshooting & Fixes

• Problem: The hat is too stiff and doesn't slouch.
  Fix: Your tension might be too tight. Try switching to a larger hook size or consciously relaxing your hands.
• Problem: The edges of my rectangle are uneven.
  Fix: Count your stitches at the end of every row. It is very easy to miss the last stitch when working in the back loops.
• Problem: The seam is bulky and uncomfortable.
  Fix: Use a mattress stitch or slip stitch through the back loops only when joining the sides to keep the seam flat.
• Problem: The top of the hat has a large, open hole.
  Fix: Thread your yarn tail through every other row along the top edge, pull tightly like a drawstring, and secure with a strong knot before weaving in the tails.

Care Instructions

To keep your slouchy hat looking its best, hand wash it in cool water with a mild detergent. Gently squeeze out excess water without wringing, and lay it flat on a dry towel to air dry. If you used a faux fur pom-pom, remove it before washing or keep it completely out of the water to preserve its fluffiness.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite like the satisfaction of pulling a warm, stylish hat over your ears on a chilly day—especially when you made it yourself! I hope you love making and wearing your new slouchy hat. Happy crocheting, my friends!