Ashland Rib Stitch Beanie

Ashland Rib Stitch Beanie Crochet Pattern

What Is Being Made

The Ashland Rib Stitch Beanie is a crocheted winter hat designed by Elspeth Barriault of PapioCreek Crochet. This beanie is sized to fit most adults and teens, with finished measurements of approximately 11.5 inches in height and 8.5 inches in width (29cm x 21.5cm). The pattern produces a textured, ribbed appearance that provides both visual interest and warmth, making it an ideal accessory for cold weather wear.

Techniques and Construction Method

The Ashland Rib Stitch Beanie is worked flat in rows rather than in the round, meaning the crocheter works back and forth on a flat piece before seaming it into a hat shape at the end. This flat construction method is beginner-friendly and allows for easier tension control and stitch counting. The pattern uses a foundation row technique to establish the base stitches, eliminating the need for a separate chain foundation. Each row is turned, and a chain stitch is added at the end of rows but does not count toward the stitch count.

The primary technique featured in this pattern is the rib stitch, which creates a dimensional, textured fabric with a ribbed appearance. This is achieved through strategic use of back loop only stitches and third loop stitches, which create the characteristic ridged texture. The rib stitch technique adds both visual appeal and structural integrity to the finished beanie.

Stitches Used

• Foundation Half Double Crochet (FHDC) – Used to establish the initial row of stitches without requiring a separate chain foundation
• Half Double Crochet Back Loop Only (HDC BLO) – Creates the ribbed texture by working into only the back loop of stitches from the previous row
• Half Double Crochet in the 3rd Loop (HDC3L) – An alternative stitch variation that works into the third loop of stitches to create texture and variation in the rib pattern
• Slip Stitch (SLST) – Used for joining and finishing edges
• Chain Stitch (CH) – Used for turning chains between rows

Materials and Tools

The Ashland Rib Stitch Beanie is designed to be worked with bulky weight yarn, classified as #5 yarn weight. The pattern was tested using Loops & Threads Charisma Tweed Hues in the color Sweet Dreams, with a yardage of 3.5 ounces (108 yards / 99 grams / 99 meters). A US size L crochet hook, measuring 8.0 millimeters, is required to work with this yarn weight and achieve proper gauge and fabric drape.

Additional materials needed include a yarn needle for weaving in ends and seaming the hat, scissors for cutting yarn, and a measuring tape for checking finished dimensions and fit. An optional pom-pom can be added to the top of the finished beanie for decorative purposes and added visual interest.

Difficulty Level and Gauge

This pattern is rated as beginner-friendly, making it an excellent choice for crocheters new to the craft or those looking for a quick, straightforward project. The pattern notes indicate that gauge is not critical for this project, which further reduces pressure on newer crafters and allows for more flexibility in yarn substitution and personal customization.

For reference, the stated gauge is 2 inches by 2 inches, which equals 4.5 stitches by 3 rows of the pattern repeat. The pattern includes helpful notes for customization: depending on individual head size, crafters may need to add or remove one or two stitches from the first row or add or remove one or two rows from the overall pattern to achieve a personalized fit.