Granny Scrap Hat

Granny Scrap Hat by Erika Loftin

Project Overview

The Granny Scrap Hat is a free downloadable crochet pattern designed by Erika Loftin for Touch of Whimsy in 2015. This intermediate-level project creates a charming infant hat featuring classic granny square construction adapted into a wearable hat form. The finished hat measures 6 inches high with a 13-inch circumference, making it perfectly sized for babies approximately 3 months old.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a structured infant crochet hat built from granny square elements. The design combines the nostalgic appeal of traditional granny squares with practical hat construction, creating a whimsical accessory that works well for babies and young infants. The two-color colorwork adds visual interest while remaining achievable for intermediate crocheters.

Materials Required

• Hook: Size H (5.00 mm)
• Yarn Weight: Worsted weight in two colors
• Yarn Quantity: Approximately 50 yards in main color and 16 yards in contrast color
• Recommended Yarn: Samples were made using Caron Simply Soft, a relatively light worsted weight yarn

Crochet Techniques and Stitches

The Granny Scrap Hat employs several fundamental crochet techniques that make it suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The pattern begins with a traditional granny square foundation, which can be created using either a standard chain-and-join method or the magic loop technique for a tighter center.

• Chain (ch): Used to create the foundation ring and structure throughout the pattern
• Half Double Crochet (hdc): A versatile mid-height stitch that forms the base of the granny square and contributes to the hat's overall drape
• Double Crochet (dc): A taller stitch used to create height and texture within the granny square motif
• Front Post Double Crochet (fpdc): Creates dimensional texture by working around the post of previous stitches from the front
• Back Post Double Crochet (bpdc): Works around the post from the back to add ribbed or textured effects
• Slip Stitch: Used for joining rounds and color changes throughout construction

Construction Method and Color Work

The hat is constructed in the round, beginning with a granny square base. The pattern uses a two-color system where colors are cleverly managed by carrying the unused color up the inside of the hat for the first 4 rounds without cutting the yarn. This technique minimizes weaving in ends while maintaining clean color transitions. Color changes occur at join points using slip stitches, creating a seamless integration of the two yarns.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 3 rows of half double crochet equaling 1 inch in height, and 4 half double crochet stitches equaling 1 inch in width. Maintaining this gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished dimensions. The pattern is sized for infants approximately 3 months old, though gauge adjustments with different yarn weights or hook sizes can modify the final hat size.

Skill Level

Rated as intermediate difficulty, this pattern assumes familiarity with basic crochet stitches and techniques. Crocheters should be comfortable working in the round, managing color changes, and understanding post stitches for texture variation. The granny square construction provides a recognizable framework that many intermediate crafters will find approachable.