Convertible Hat/Cowl in Lion Brand Go For Faux - Downloadable PDF

Lion Brand Go For Faux Convertible Hat/Cowl – Free Crochet Pattern (L80361)

This free downloadable PDF from Lion Brand delivers a clever two-in-one accessory: a cozy convertible hat and cowl that can be worn either as a snug neck warmer or pulled up over the head as a hat. Rated Easy and ideal for beginner crocheters, the design works up quickly thanks to super chunky yarn and a large hook, making it a satisfying first project or a fast gift idea for any cold-weather season.

What Is Being Made

The finished piece is a seamless, circular tube measuring approximately 25 inches (63.5 cm) in circumference and 6 inches (15 cm) in height. Its stretchy construction means it sits comfortably around the neck as a cowl or folds and stretches over the head as a hat — no separate finishing or shaping required. The convertible design makes it especially practical and versatile.

Materials Used

• Yarn: Lion Brand Go For Faux (Art. #322), color 202 Blue Bengal — 1 ball. This is a super chunky faux fur yarn known for its lush, voluminous texture that mimics the look and feel of real fur. Because of this dense, fluffy texture, individual stitches can be difficult to see while working; the pattern advises crocheting by feel rather than sight.
• Hook: Lion Brand crochet hook, size N (10 mm) — a large hook appropriate for super chunky weight yarn that helps create an open, stretchy fabric.
• Notions: A Lion Brand large-eyed blunt needle for weaving in ends.

Techniques Used

• Starting with a foundation chain: The project begins with a chain of 45 stitches, which sets the circumference of the tube.
• Joining in the round: After completing the set-up row, the ends are joined with a slip stitch to form a continuous ring, and all subsequent rounds are worked in the round — eliminating any visible seam.
• Working in the round: Each round begins with a chain-2 and ends with a slip stitch join, creating a smooth, even fabric that grows uniformly from the foundation.
• Gauge checking: The pattern specifies a gauge of 7 half double crochet stitches to 4 inches (10 cm), and encourages crocheters to check gauge before beginning to ensure proper sizing.
• Yarn management tip: Because Lion Brand Go For Faux is a fluffy, textured yarn prone to tangling, the pattern suggests placing the ball inside a zippered plastic bag with a small opening for the yarn strand — a practical trick for keeping the work tidy.

Stitches Used

• Chain stitch (ch): Used to create the foundation and the turning/beginning chains at the start of each round.
• Half double crochet (hdc): The only stitch used throughout the entire body of the hat/cowl. The half double crochet is taller than a single crochet but shorter than a double crochet, producing a dense yet slightly flexible fabric — perfect for a warm accessory. It is an excellent stitch for beginners to practice because it is straightforward and rhythmic.
• Slip stitch (sl st): Used at the end of each round to join the work and keep the circular construction intact.

Construction Notes

The hat/cowl is crocheted in one piece with no shaping, increases, or decreases — the tube remains the same width from start to finish. The pattern instructs the crocheter to repeat the single working round until almost all of the yarn has been used, maximizing every yard of the single ball of Lion Brand Go For Faux. Because the yarn is highly stretchy, there is no need to finish at the end of a precise round; the pattern can be fastened off at any point without it being noticeable in the finished piece. This forgiving quality makes the design especially approachable for those new to crochet.

Who This Pattern Is For