Rory Hat

Rory Hat by Michelle Ferguson

What is Being Made

The Rory Hat is a beginner-friendly crochet hat design created by Michelle Ferguson. This pattern produces a fitted hat with stretch, available in three sizes to accommodate different head circumferences: toddler (18-20"), child (20-21"), and adult (21-22"). The hat is an ideal project for those new to crochet, offering a straightforward construction method suitable for building foundational skills.

Crochet Techniques Used

The Rory Hat employs several essential crochet techniques that make it accessible for beginners while creating a polished finished garment. The pattern utilizes chainless foundation single crochet (FSC), which eliminates the traditional chain base and creates a more elastic, professional-looking edge. The hat is worked in the round, allowing for seamless construction. Decreasing techniques are incorporated through single crochet 2 together (sc2tog) and double crochet 2 together (dc2tog) stitches, which shape the crown of the hat. Working into the back loop only (blo) is used selectively to create textural variation and structure within the design.

Stitches Used

The Rory Hat pattern relies on fundamental crochet stitches that form the foundation of most hat designs:

• Chain (ch) – Used for foundational and transitional elements
• Single Crochet (sc) – The primary stitch forming the main body and brim of the hat
• Single Crochet 2 Together (sc2tog) – A decrease stitch used to shape the hat crown
• Double Crochet 2 Together (dc2tog) – An additional decrease stitch for shaping
• Back Loop Only (blo) – A technique applied to specific stitches to create texture and structure

Materials and Tools

The Rory Hat is worked with worsted weight (#4) yarn, also referred to as aran weight. Yardage requirements vary by size: toddler sizing requires 95-100 yards, child sizing needs 100-125 yards, and adult sizing calls for 125-150 yards. The pattern is worked with an I/9 (5.5 mm) crochet hook, which pairs appropriately with worsted weight yarn to create the specified gauge. Additional materials include scissors for finishing, a measuring tape for checking fit and gauge, and a yarn needle for weaving in ends. An optional pom can be added to the crown for decorative embellishment.

Gauge and Fit

Achieving proper gauge is important for ensuring the hat fits correctly. Within the brim section, the pattern specifies a gauge of 8 stitches by 6 rows equaling 2 inches. Within the body of the hat, the gauge is 16 stitches by 10 rows equaling 4 inches. The hat is designed with inherent stretch, allowing for a comfortable, fitted wear across the specified head circumferences.