Messy Bun Lock Hat

Messy Bun Lock Hat by Hookoflove

What is Being Made

The Messy Bun Lock Hat is a crochet headwear design created by designer Aminata Ndiaye. This hat is specifically engineered to accommodate a messy bun or hair lock at the crown, making it an ideal accessory for individuals who wear their hair up. The pattern is available in adult large size with adjustable options for adult medium and children's sizes, offering versatility across different head measurements.

Construction Method

This hat is worked from the rim upward to the crown, beginning with a foundation chain that is joined into a circle. The construction progresses in circular rows, building the hat structure incrementally. The designer recommends starting the foundation chain with the blue color from the ombre yarn to achieve the specific pooling effect visible in the pictured sample, demonstrating how yarn color selection influences the final aesthetic.

Crochet Stitches and Techniques Used

The Messy Bun Lock Hat employs several fundamental crochet stitches and post stitches to create texture and structure:

• Chain (ch): Used to create the foundation and turning chains throughout the pattern
• Double Crochet (dc): The primary stitch used in the first row to establish the base structure
• Front Post Double Crochet (fpdc): Applied in alternating sequences to create dimensional texture and the ribbed appearance characteristic of the design
• Back Post Double Crochet (bpdc): Worked in alternating patterns with front post stitches to enhance the three-dimensional quality
• 2 Front Post Double Crochet Decrease (2togfpdc): A decrease technique that combines two front post double crochets into one stitch, used to shape the hat as it progresses toward the crown
• Slip Stitch (ss): Used to join rounds and secure stitches at the end of each row

Pattern Structure

The pattern consists of 18 rows with specific stitch sequences. Rows 1 through 5 establish the hat's foundation and initial texture using the 4mm hook. Beginning at Row 6, the hook is switched to a 4.5mm size, and the stitch pattern from Row 4 is repeated through Row 18. The designer notes that crafters can work additional or fewer rows depending on desired hat height, allowing for customization based on personal preference.

Materials Required

Yarn: Loops & Threads® Impeccable™ Yarn in Ombre colorway (Tropical Storm), requiring 3.5 ounces. This yarn is a DK weight, making it suitable for beginner-level crocheters while still producing a finished hat with good drape and structure.

Hooks: Two crochet hooks are needed—a 4mm hook for the initial foundation and shaping rows, and a 4.5mm hook for the body of the hat. This hook size progression allows for subtle gauge adjustments that contribute to the hat's final fit and appearance.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is classified as beginner-friendly, making it an excellent choice for crocheters new to the craft or those seeking a straightforward project. The stitches used—chains, double crochets, and post stitches—are foundational techniques that beginners can practice while creating a wearable, functional accessory.