Rae of Sunshine Spring Cloche

Rae of Sunshine Spring Cloche by Kristine Mullen

What Is Being Made

The Rae of Sunshine Spring Cloche is a beginner-friendly crocheted baby and children's hat designed by Kristine Mullen. This downloadable crochet pattern includes multiple size options to fit infants from newborn through preteen, as well as adult sizing. The hat features a decorative crocheted flower accent measuring 3 ½ inches across, making it a charming spring accessory for babies and young children.

Available Sizes

This pattern provides instructions for the following sizes:

• 0 – 3 months
• 3 – 6 months
• 6 – 18 months
• 2T – 5T
• 5T – Preteen
• Adult

Crochet Techniques and Construction

The Rae of Sunshine Spring Cloche uses fundamental crochet techniques appropriate for beginners. The hat construction begins with a magic ring, a popular technique for starting projects in the round. The pattern employs double crochet stitches as the primary stitch throughout the hat body, which creates a fabric with good drape and structure suitable for a cloche-style hat.

The decorative flower accent uses shell stitches, a textured stitch pattern that creates visual interest. The pattern includes both small shells and large shells as special stitches, allowing crafters to create dimensional floral elements. Additionally, the pattern incorporates front post single crochet (FPsc), a technique that involves inserting the hook behind the indicated stitch to create raised, textured details.

Special Stitches Used

• Small Shell: 3 double crochet stitches in the specified stitch
• Large Shell: 5 double crochet stitches in the specified stitch
• Front Post Single Crochet (FPsc): Worked by inserting the hook behind the stitch indicated from right to left, yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over, and pull through both loops on hook

Materials and Tools

This pattern calls for #4 weight cotton yarn, specifically Sugar 'n Cream brand. The yardage requirements are:

• 3 ounces in Sunshine (primary color)
• 1 ounce in Robin's Egg blue (accent color for the flower)

The recommended tool is a Size H crochet hook for the main hat construction. The pattern notes that a Size G hook can be substituted if a smaller flower is desired for infant sizes. Additional materials needed include a yarn needle for weaving in ends.

Gauge and Sizing Information

The gauge for this pattern is measured as follows: 2 large shells equal 3 inches, and 2 double crochet stitches plus 1 small shell equal 3 inches. The smallest size (0 – 3 months) has a circumference of up to 14 inches, ensuring proper fit for newborns and very young infants.

Yarn Fiber and Weight Considerations

The use of #4 weight cotton yarn makes this an excellent choice for spring and summer wear. Cotton provides breathability and comfort for delicate baby skin, and the Sugar 'n Cream brand is a durable, affordable option commonly used for baby items. The cotton fiber creates a fabric that is easy to care for and suitable for frequent washing, an important consideration for baby garments.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for crocheters new to the craft or those looking for a quick, satisfying project. The straightforward construction using basic stitches and the inclusion of clear stitch definitions make this pattern accessible to crafters at all experience levels.