Chain Linked Hat

Chain Linked Hat by Nicole Riley

What You'll Create

The Chain Linked Hat is an intermediate-level crochet design that produces a finished adult-sized hat measuring 9 inches in diameter by 9 inches in height (excluding the pom-pom topper). This downloadable crochet pattern from independent designer Nicole Riley offers a colorful, textured hat perfect for adding visual interest to your wardrobe with its chain-linked construction technique.

Crochet Techniques Used

This pattern employs fundamental crochet techniques suitable for crafters with some experience. The construction relies on working in the back loop only (blo), a technique that creates distinct textured rows and visual definition in the finished fabric. The chain-linked construction method gives the hat its signature appearance, combining basic crochet fundamentals with strategic stitch placement to achieve the desired effect.

Stitches and Construction Methods

The Chain Linked Hat uses the following stitches in US terminology:

• Chain (ch) – the foundation stitch used to begin the pattern
• Single crochet (sc) – the primary stitch for building the hat's structure
• Back loop only (blo) – worked throughout to create texture and definition
• Slip stitch (sl st) – used to join rounds and finish sections

The gauge for this pattern is 3 rows by 2 single crochets equals 1 square inch, which helps ensure your finished hat reaches the correct dimensions.

Materials and Tools Required

Yarn: The pattern calls for Premier Yarn Everyday Collection in aran weight yarn. You'll need one skein each in three colors: red, white, and green. Aran weight yarn provides excellent stitch definition for the chain-linked texture.

Tools and Notions: A 5.0 mm crochet hook is required to work with the aran weight yarn at the specified gauge. Additional supplies include a pom-pom maker (largest size recommended for proportion), scissors for finishing, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and assembling color sections if needed.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate, making it suitable for crocheters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to work with textured techniques like back loop only construction. The combination of simple stitches with strategic placement creates visual complexity without requiring advanced skills.