Bold Crochet Chowder Beanie Pattern that Turns Heads

YouTube

Special Features

1. Chowder-Inspired Design:
   • The beanie includes small "cat ears" made from crocheted floral-like petals, giving it a playful and whimsical look.
2. Flippable Band:
   • The textured bottom band of the beanie can be folded up for a professional, double-layered finish.
3. Textured Velvet Yarn:
   • The tutorial uses velvety yarn, which provides a soft, luxurious feel. The texture adds an eye-catching look to your work.
4. Customizable Fit:
   • The beanie can be adjusted to any head size by altering the foundation double crochet stitch count.
5. Step-by-Step Stitch Guide:
   • The tutorial covers several techniques in-depth, making it a good project to refine foundational crochet skills.

Level of Difficulty

• Confident Beginner to Intermediate:
  • This tutorial is ideal for crochet enthusiasts with some experience. The project includes foundational stitches such as double crochet, treble crochet, and involves sewing details, which might be new to a beginner.

Materials Needed

1. Yarn:
   • Bernat Velvet Yarn (or a similar luxurious yarn of your choice). Liz recommends shades like "Pot and Purple" or "Burgundy" from craft stores like Joann.
2. Hook:
   • 5mm Crochet Hook (US H-8 Size)
3. Tools:
   • Scissors
   • Needle (for sewing ear details onto the hat)
4. Optional Items:
   • Measuring tape (to ensure a snug fit)

Tutor’s Suggestions

1. Adjust Stitch Count for Fit:
   • While the pattern calls for a base of 58 stitches, Liz reminds viewers that head sizes vary. Wrap the band around your head to ensure it's a perfect fit before continuing.
2. Work Seamlessly:
   • As a time-saving tip, Liz likes to crochet excess yarn ends into the work while crocheting to avoid weaving them in afterward.
3. Pay Attention to Right Side vs. Wrong Side:
   • For a polished look, make sure to follow the specific instructions about working on the wrong side for particular rows so the band appears consistently flipped.
4. Hiding the Yarn Ends:
   • Use a hook to pull loose ends through the inside of the hat for a tidy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Create the Band (Foundation Double Crochet Stitch)

1. Start with the Foundation Chain:
   • Make a slip knot and chain 4.
   • Yarn over, insert your hook into the first chain, and pull up a loop. (You now have 3 loops on your hook.)
   • Yarn over, pull through 1 loop, then yarn over again and pull through 2 loops twice.
     Save
2. Build the Stitch:
   • Insert your hook into the base of the last stitch, and repeat the previous steps to create foundation double crochets.
   • Continue until the band wraps comfortably around your head (typically ~58 stitches).
3. Join the Ends to Form a Circle:
   • Yarn over, insert your hook into the first stitch, and into the corresponding stitch on the opposite side. Join with a slip stitch.

2. Main Body of the Hat

1. Row 1:
   • Chain 1 and make 1 double crochet (DC) in the same stitch. Then, double crochet into every stitch around.
   • Join the row with a slip stitch.
2. Row 2:
   • Chain 1, and make 1 DC in the same stitch. Continue making double crochets in each stitch around.
   • Join the row with a slip stitch once complete.
     Save
3. Repeat Rows 2-4:
   • Repeat the same process for a total of 4 rows, ensuring consistency.
4. Row 5 Onwards (Work on the Wrong Side):
   • Flip your work so the wrong side is facing you.
   • Continue making 1 DC in each stitch around for an additional 15 rows (or your desired length).
   • This brings your row count to 19 in total, with additional rows added if needed.
     Save

3. Close the Top of the Hat

1. Turn the Hat Inside Out:
   • Flip your work to the wrong side, as the closing will happen from this side to keep the seam hidden.
2. Single Crochet to Close the Opening:
   • Insert your hook into the first stitch closest to you, and into the stitch directly across.
   • Make a single crochet (SC) to join these stitches.
   • Repeat for all stitches around the top, effectively pulling the edges closed.
3. Finalize the Hat Base:
   • Cut your yarn, secure it, and flip the work right-side out.
     Save

4. Create and Attach the Cat Ears

1. Make the Ears:
   • Create a slip knot and chain 4.
   • Slip stitch to form a ring.
2. Petal Design:
   • Chain 3 and make 2 treble crochets (TR) into the ring.
   • Chain 3 and slip stitch into the ring again.
3. Repeat for 3 Petals:
   • Repeat the petal pattern two more times to create the floral-like ear shape.
   • Leave a long tail for sewing.
4. Attach the Ears to the Hat:
   • Use a needle to sew the ears onto the corners of the beanie. Ensure symmetry.
   • After placement, secure with triple knots and trim excess yarn.

Uses of the Beanie

1. Winter Accessory:
   • The velvet yarn makes it a soft and warm addition to your winter wear.
2. Costume or Playful Look:
   • The whimsical cat ears make the beanie perfect for costumes or for adding a playful touch to your outfit.
3. Gift Idea:
   • Customizable and unique, this beanie makes for a thoughtful, handmade gift.

Final Tip

Check Size as You Go:
Make sure to test the fit frequently, especially after completing the band and before moving on to the main body. This ensures the finished product is snug but comfortable.

Conclusion

Crochet Chowder Beanie tutorial walks you through the process of creating a cozy, stylish, and fun accessory. With its playful design and velvety texture, the beanie is versatile enough to be a casual winter staple or a creative addition to your wardrobe.