Basic Beret

Basic Beret Knit Pattern by Jessie Rayot

What is Being Made

The Basic Beret is a classic adult woman's knit hat designed by Jessie Rayot. This pattern creates a traditional beret with a finished head circumference of 22 inches, suitable for average adult women. The beret features the characteristic flat, round shape and structured crown that defines this iconic hat style.

Knitting Techniques Used

This beginner-level knit pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques accessible to those new to the craft. The construction uses magic loop or double-pointed needles (dpn) for working in the round, allowing for seamless construction of the crown and body. The pattern incorporates ribbing at the brim using circular needles, which creates an elastic edge that fits snugly around the head. Increases and decreases shape the beret's distinctive silhouette, while the stockinette stitch creates the smooth fabric characteristic of classic berets.

Stitches and Abbreviations

• k - knit stitch
• p - purl stitch
• k2tog - knit 2 together (a decrease technique)
• m1 - make 1 (an increase technique)
• pm - place marker
• st(s) - stitch or stitches

Materials and Tools

The Basic Beret requires Lion Brand Heartland yarn in worsted weight (also known as aran weight). Two sets of needles are needed: US-8 (5.0mm) double-pointed needles or long circular needles for working the main body and crown using the magic loop method, and US-7 (4.5mm) 16-inch circular needles for the ribbed cuff. The pattern calls for a yarn needle for weaving in ends, and 7 stitch markers total (1 round marker and 6 additional markers) to track pattern repeats and construction points. The gauge is 18 stitches by 26 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch when worked on the larger needles.

Pattern Format and Design Details

This downloadable PDF pattern from designer Jessie Rayot is formatted as an ad-free, text-only pattern in black ink for easy printing. The PDF includes a full-color front cover page and additional photos on the final page. Knitters can save ink by printing only the middle pages containing the pattern instructions. The pattern is rated as easy skill level, making it an excellent introduction to hat knitting and in-the-round construction techniques.