Fashion Forward: Free Cluster Stitch Beret Hat Crochet Pattern

Instructions:

Step 1: Magic Ring

1. Wrap the yarn around your fingers to create a magic ring.
2. Secure the ring with a loose slip knot.

Step 2: First Row

1. Chain 2 (ch 2): This counts as the first unfinished double crochet stitch.
2. Create another double crochet stitch by wrapping the yarn, entering the magic ring, pulling through two loops.
3. Repeat the above step once more.
4. Pull through all three loops on the hook to create a cluster stitch (3 dc together).
5. Chain 2.
6. Repeat steps 2-4 to create more cluster stitches until you have a total of 6.

Step 3: Close the First Row

1. Pull the starting yarn tail to form a ring.
2. Make the last ch 2 to finish the row.
3. Join to the top of the first cluster stitch with a slip stitch.

Step 4: Second Row

1. Make a slip stitch into the first ch 2 space.
2. Ch 2 (first unfinished dc stitch).
3. Wrap the yarn and make two more unfinished dc in the same space.
4. Pull through all three loops to complete the cluster.
5. Ch 2 and make another cluster in the same space.
6. Continue this pattern across to make 2 clusters in each chain 2 space. You will end up with 12 clusters.

Step 5: Subsequent Rows

1. For each new row, you start by making a slip stitch into the first chain 2 space.
2. Always start with ch 2.
3. For Row 3: Make 1 cluster in the first ch 2 space, then 2 clusters in the next space. Repeat this across the row, giving 18 clusters.
4. For Row 4: Following 2 clusters in the first space, make 1 cluster in each of the next two spaces. Repeat, ending with 24 clusters.
5. Continue increasing similarly in following rows.

Step 6: Forming the Base

1. Continue adding rows until the base reaches approximately 8 inches (21 centimeters), suitable for ages 6-10 years or a small adult head.

Step 7: No Increase Rows

1. Work 1 cluster in every chain 2 space without increasing for about 3 rows.
2. This sets up the height of the hat.

Step 8: Border of the Hat

1. Begin a round with ch 2 for the first half double crochet (hdc).
2. Continue making hdc in each ch 2 space and cluster stitch.
3. Mark the starting stitch, and don't use slip stitch to join—work continuously in rounds.
4. Work hdc in the third loop or back loop to add texture. Repeat for about 8 rows.

Step 9: Finishing Touches

1. For the final round, switch to slip stitches for a refined edge.
2. Weave the yarn ends securely, knotting where necessary.
3. Add a decorative flower if desired (refer to the video description or channel for the flower tutorial).

The above pattern provides a step-by-step guide to creating the fairy hat as seen in the video. Have fun crocheting!