Leonard's Star

Leonard's Star Crochet Hat by Darcy Johnson

What Is Being Made

Leonard's Star is a crocheted hat designed by Darcy Johnson. This downloadable crochet pattern creates a finished hat available in two sizes: Adult Small and Large. The hat features a structured brim and decorative body worked in joined rows and rounds, combining textural stitches for visual interest.

Craft and Construction Method

This is a crochet project worked from the bottom up. The hat begins with a crocheted brim strip that is later joined at the short ends, then continues with rounds worked into the brim edge to form the hat body. The pattern uses joined rows and rounds, meaning each section is completed and fastened off before moving to the next, creating a structured, finished appearance.

Stitches and Techniques Used

Leonard's Star incorporates several foundational and intermediate crochet stitches:

• Half Double Crochet (Hdc): Used throughout the brim section for a dense, stable fabric
• Single Crochet (Sc): Applied in the hat body for a tighter, more defined texture
• Treble Crochet (Tc): Included in the stitch abbreviation list for pattern variation
• Front Post Double Crochet (Fpdc): Creates raised, decorative post stitches that add dimension to the hat body
• Chain (Ch): Used to begin rows and rounds
• Back Loop Only (Blo): Worked in alternating rows of the brim to create a ridged texture
• Front Loop Only (Flo): Worked in alternating rows of the brim to create a ridged texture

Pattern Structure and Sizing

The pattern is written for two sizes: Adult Small and Adult Large, with measurements provided in parentheses throughout. The brim measures either 17 inches (Small) or 19 inches (Large) when complete. Round 1 of the hat body calls for 90 stitches (Small) or 100 stitches (Large) evenly distributed around the joined brim edge.

Difficulty Level

Leonard's Star is classified as an advanced beginner pattern, making it suitable for crocheters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to work with post stitches and multiple stitch types in a single project. The use of front post double crochet and alternating loop techniques requires intermediate skill.

Materials and Tools

Yarn: Sport weight yarn (weight category 3), requiring 250–300 yards total to complete the hat.

Hook: Size G crochet hook.

Additional Supplies: Scissors, yarn needle (for weaving in ends).

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 11 rounds by 12 stitches in pattern equals 3 inches. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure the finished hat fits properly and matches the intended dimensions.

Pattern Notes

The pattern is written from the bottom up, beginning with the brim and progressing toward the crown. The hat is worked in joined rows and rounds, meaning each row or round is completed and joined with a slip stitch before proceeding. This construction method creates a polished, seamless appearance suitable for a finished garment.