Ribbed Hat and Purse

Ribbed Hat and Purse by Judith Stalus

Project Overview

This downloadable crochet pattern from designer Judith Stalus provides instructions for creating a coordinated set consisting of a ribbed hat and matching purse. Both pieces are worked in worsted weight yarn using fundamental crochet techniques combined with textured post stitches, making this an intermediate-level project suitable for crocheters with basic stitch knowledge who are ready to expand their skills.

What Is Being Made

The pattern includes two distinct garments designed to be made as a coordinated pair. The primary project is a ribbed crochet hat featuring a textured construction that creates vertical ribbing throughout the piece. The secondary project is a matching purse that complements the hat design. Both items showcase the same ribbed stitch pattern, allowing for a cohesive, coordinated accessory set.

Crochet Techniques and Stitches

This pattern employs several foundational and intermediate crochet techniques to achieve its distinctive ribbed texture:

• Front Post Double Crochet (fpdc) – The signature stitch used to create the ribbed effect. This technique involves working the double crochet stitch around the post of the previous row's stitch rather than through the top loops, which creates raised vertical lines of texture.
• Single Crochet (sc) – A basic short stitch used for foundation rows and structural elements.
• Half Double Crochet (hdc) – A medium-height stitch that may be incorporated for shaping or transition rows.
• Double Crochet (dc) – A taller stitch used in combination with post stitches to build the ribbed pattern.
• Chain Stitch (ch) – Used to create foundation chains and turning chains throughout the pattern.
• Magic Loop – An advanced cast-on technique for starting projects in the round without a visible hole in the center. The method involves creating a loop with the yarn tail, working stitches into the loop, and then tightening the tail to close the center.

Materials and Tools

The pattern provides flexibility in yarn selection while maintaining consistent results through gauge specifications:

• Yarn Options: Worsted weight yarn is required. The pattern offers two colorway examples: a cotton option using two 2.5 oz. skeins of Lily Sugar n Cream Cotton in contrasting colors for the blue hat version, or two 3.5 oz. skeins of Lion Brand Vanna's Choice in two colors for the brown hat version. Any worsted weight yarn of similar yardage and fiber content will work.
• Crochet Hook: Size J hook is specified for this pattern.
• Additional Tools: A tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends, and an open stitch marker or safety pin for tracking rounds and pattern repeats.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of approximately 12 stitches measured across 4 inches when worked with the recommended hook and yarn weight. Achieving proper gauge is essential for creating pieces that match the intended finished dimensions, particularly important for hat sizing to ensure proper fit.

Pattern Structure and Abbreviations

The pattern uses standard crochet abbreviations including yo (yarn over), ch (chain), sc (single crochet), hdc (half double crochet), dc (double crochet), and fpdc (front post double crochet). Clear definitions are provided within the pattern document to support crocheters at the intermediate skill level.

Skill Level

Classified as an intermediate project, this pattern assumes familiarity with basic crochet stitches and techniques. The introduction of front post double crochet stitches and the magic loop technique provides appropriate skill advancement for crocheters ready to move beyond beginner patterns while remaining accessible to those with foundational knowledge.