Boston Slouch

Boston Slouch Crochet Hat by Michelle Ferguson

What Is Being Made

The Boston Slouch is a fitted crochet hat designed by Michelle Ferguson, available in four sizes ranging from toddler to large adult (18-23 inches in circumference). This slouchy-style hat is worked from the bottom up using a straightforward construction method, with the crown stitched closed at the completion of the pattern. The hat offers a relaxed, comfortable fit suitable for casual wear across multiple age groups and head sizes.

Crochet Techniques Used

This beginner-friendly crochet project employs foundational techniques that make it accessible to newer crocheters. The pattern begins with a chainless foundation single crochet (FSC) base row, which eliminates the need for a traditional chain foundation and creates a more polished, finished edge at the bottom of the hat. Working from this foundation, the hat is constructed in continuous rounds or rows and progresses upward toward the crown. The finishing technique involves stitching the top opening closed with a tapestry needle, creating the completed slouch silhouette.

Crochet Stitches Used

The Boston Slouch utilizes basic crochet stitches suitable for beginners:

• Foundation Single Crochet (FSC): Creates the chainless foundation base row
• Single Crochet (sc): A fundamental short stitch used throughout the pattern
• Half Double Crochet (hdc): A medium-height stitch that forms the primary fabric of the hat
• Chain (ch): Used for turning chains and structural elements as needed

The pattern notes that the starting chain does not count as the first stitch, a common convention in crochet patterns that affects stitch counting and pattern alignment.

Yarn and Materials

The Boston Slouch is designed to work with sport weight yarn, requiring 150-175 yards total to complete the hat. The sample shown in the pattern was created using Brava Sport yarn. An H/5.00mm crochet hook is recommended, though crocheters should verify their hook size by checking gauge before beginning. Additional materials include scissors, a measuring tape for sizing accuracy, and a tapestry needle for seaming the crown closed.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 15 half double crochet stitches plus 11 half double crochet rows equaling 4 inches when working the FSC foundation row. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished hat size. Four size options are provided: Toddler (18-20 inches), Child (20-21 inches), Small Adult (21-22 inches), and Large Adult (22-23 inches). The hat is fitted with no ease built in; for a looser, more relaxed fit, crocheters are advised to work the next size up from their head measurement.

Difficulty Level

Rated as easy and suitable for beginners, the Boston Slouch introduces fundamental crochet techniques without complex stitch combinations or advanced shaping. The straightforward bottom-up construction and use of basic stitches make this an ideal project for developing foundational crochet skills while producing a wearable, finished garment.