Reeve Newsboy Hat Pattern

Learn how to crochet the stylish Reeve Newsboy Hat, a versatile unisex accessory featuring a subtle slouch, a classic brim, and optional bow or pom-pom embellishments.

Have you ever found a crochet pattern that you just can't stop making? For me, this classic brimmed cap is exactly that project. It is one of those rare designs that looks incredible on absolutely everyone, from tiny babies to adults.

Many slouchy hat patterns end up looking way too bulky. They swallow up your head, droop in the wrong places, or feel too heavy to wear comfortably.

Not this one.

This design strikes the perfect balance. It gives you just a touch of modern slouch without looking oversized, keeping its structured shape thanks to a clever brim.

I have whipped up this design in single colors, dual-tone stripes, and even vibrant three-color variations. Each version turns out beautifully, making it a fantastic go-to gift. Best of all, it uses only front post stitches to create texture, completely skipping the fussy back post stitches that often frustrate makers. If you want to master the basics of hat construction first, check out my guide on How to Crochet a Hat before diving in.

Why You'll Love This Pattern

• Unisex Appeal: Looks wonderful on both males and females of any age.
• No Complex Stitches: Uses front post double crochet but completely avoids the trickier back post double crochet.
• Endless Customization: Includes instructions for a matching crochet bow and a classic pom-pom to change up the look.

Materials You'll Need

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn (Medium / Category 4)
• Hook: H/8 (5.00 mm) crochet hook
• Notions: Yarn needle, scissors, measuring tape, and optional buttons for styling
• Yardage: 80 - 200 yards (depending on the size selected)

Gauge & Sizing

• Gauge: 14 dc and 8 rows = 4 inches (10 cm)
• Sizes included: Newborn, 3-6 Months, 6-12 Months, Toddler/Child, and Teen/Woman
• Finished measurements: Designed to fit head circumferences ranging from 13 inches (newborn) up to 22 inches (adult woman)

Abbreviations & Stitch Instructions

• ch: Chain - Loop yarn over hook and pull through.
• sl st: Slip Stitch - Insert hook, yarn over, and pull through stitch and loop on hook.
• sc: Single Crochet - Insert hook, yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through both loops.
• dc: Double Crochet - Yarn over, insert hook, yarn over, pull up a loop, [yarn over, pull through two loops] twice.
• fpdc: Front Post Double Crochet - Yarn over, insert hook from front to back to front around the post of the stitch below, yarn over, pull up a loop, [yarn over, pull through two loops] twice.

Pattern Notes

• Skill Level: Easy / Advanced Beginner
• This pattern is written in US crochet terms.
• The item is worked in the round from the crown down, then the brim is worked directly onto the edge.
• Keep your post stitches loose. Working them too tightly will shrink the hat's diameter and make it stiff.
• To create clean stripes, try practicing Seamless Round Color Changes when switching skeins.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Crocheting the Crown

To begin, we will work in joined rounds to build the flat circle that forms the top of the hat. Start with a magic ring or chain 4 and join with a slip stitch to form a ring. Work your initial double crochet stitches into this ring. In subsequent rounds, you will gradually increase your stitch count by placing two stitches in designated spots to keep the circle flat.

Step 2: Adding the Slouchy Body

Once your crown reaches the correct diameter for your target size, stop increasing. Now, you will work even rounds of double crochet mixed with front post double crochet (fpdc) stitches. This alternating texture creates the beautiful ribbed columns. Because we are not increasing anymore, the piece will naturally start to cup and form the slouchy sides of the hat.

Step 3: Shaping the Brim

Locate the front center of your hat. You will work rows of single or half double crochet back and forth across a section of the front edge to build the visor. To get that classic newsboy curve, we will use decreases at the edges of the brim rows. This pulls the corners in slightly, creating a structured, sun-shielding peak.

Step 4: Crafting the Embellishments

To finish your hat, you can make a simple crochet bow or a fluffy yarn pom-pom. For the bow, crochet a small flat rectangle in single crochet, wrap yarn tightly around the center to pinch it, and sew it securely near the brim. For a pom-pom, wrap yarn around your fingers or a cardboard template, tie it tightly in the middle, cut the loops, and trim it into a neat sphere.

Easy Variations & Custom Ideas

• The Classic Zadie Look: If you prefer a slightly different brim style, check out the Zadie Newsboy Hat Pattern for a feminine twist.
• Go Extra Slouchy: Add two extra rounds to the body section before starting the brim to mimic the relaxed style of the Bree Slouchy Hat.
• Play with Color: Use three contrasting colors—one for the crown, one for the body, and one for the brim and bow.
• Add Decorative Buttons: Sew two large wooden buttons where the brim meets the main body of the hat for a nautical, high-end look.
• Skip the Brim: Omit the brim entirely to turn this pattern into a textured beanie, similar to the style of the Polka Dot Beanie Pattern.
• Colour ideas: Try earthy tones like mustard, olive green, and rust for autumn, or soft pastels like lavender and mint for spring babies.
• Yarn substitutions: Any standard worsted weight acrylic or wool blend will work beautifully. Cotton yarn can also be used for a lighter, breathable spring version.

Common Troubleshooting & Fixes

• Problem: The crown of my hat is ruffling and won't lie flat.
  Fix: This usually happens if your tension is too loose or if you accidentally added extra increases. Count your stitches carefully at the end of each round, or try using a slightly smaller hook.
• Problem: The hat is too tight and stiff.
  Fix: Your front post double crochet stitches might be too tight. Make sure to pull up your loops to the height of a normal double crochet when working around the post.
• Problem: The brim is floppy and doesn't hold its shape.
  Fix: Go down one or two hook sizes just for the brim section. Working the brim with tighter, denser stitches will make it sturdy.
• Problem: There is a visible, messy seam running down the back.
  Fix: Always join your rounds with a tight slip stitch, and make sure you aren't accidentally crocheting into the joining slip stitch as an extra stitch.

Care Instructions

To keep your handmade hat looking its best, I highly recommend hand washing it in cool water with a mild wool wash. Gently squeeze out the excess water by rolling the hat in a clean towel—never wring or twist it. Lay it flat on a dry towel to air dry, shaping the brim and crown while damp so it dries in its perfect slouchy shape.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite like the satisfaction of finishing a project that is both practical and stylish. Whether you are making a tiny newborn version for a baby shower or a cozy adult size for yourself, the Reeve Newsboy Hat is sure to become a favorite in your crochet rotation. Grab your hook, pick your favorite colors, and happy crocheting!