Rocky Ridge Crochet Hat: Free Crochet Pattern

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Introducing the new Rocky Ridge Crochet Hat pattern! Inspired by the breathtaking Canadian Rocky Mountains, this crochet pattern is a true gem.

The hat features a stunning ribbed design that creates a stretchy, ridged texture, adding a touch of rustic to your winter wardrobe. Whether you’re exploring the picturesque trails or admiring the sights in beautiful Banff, Alberta, this hat is a must-have for your outdoor adventures.

Designed to cater to the entire family, the Rocky Ridge Hat pattern comes in sizes for all ages. So, you can create matching hats for the whole family and tackle the chilly weather together.

Crafted with the luxurious Upcycle Alpaca Blend from WeCrochet, which combines alpaca, wool, and acrylic, this hat offers a unique blend of softness, durability, and warmth. It’s perfect for keeping you cozy during your fall and winter escapades.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to crochet this stunning Rocky Ridge Hat and embark on your own mountain-inspired journey. So, grab your crochet hooks and the Upcycle Alpaca Blend yarn, and let’s create something beautiful together!

Below, you will find everything you need to make this ribbed crochet hat, including the yarn, hook, materials, free written pattern for blog subscribers, pictures and a video tutorial. If you love this free crochet hat pattern, please share!

Easy skill level.

Key Takeaways

  • The Rocky Ridge Crochet Hat pattern is inspired by the Canadian Rocky Mountains, featuring a comfy ribbed design.
  • It accommodates all family members, allowing you to crochet matching hats for outdoor activities.
  • Made with Upcycle Alpaca Blend yarn, this hat balances softness, durability, and warmth for winter.
  • The pattern is beginner-friendly, worked flat with clear instructions and a video tutorial to assist.
  • Enjoy creating your Rocky Ridge Crochet Hat with eco-friendly materials that reflect nature’s beauty.
A woman holding a baby wearing a burgundy pom pom beanie and carrying a crochet bag.

Bow River Falls

Standing at the Banff Bow River Falls, I was captivated by the sheer magnificence of the Canadian Rockies unfolding before my eyes. The roaring waters and the rugged beauty of the landscape were a sight to behold. As a passionate crocheter, I was instantly drawn to the idea of channeling this awe-inspiring scenery into a tangible creation: the Rocky Ridge Hat.

The falls, with their cascading water and the gentle mist, inspired a sense of tranquility and peace within me. I wanted to capture that spirit in a cozy and warm accessory that would serve as a reminder of that remarkable place.

With my trusty crochet hooks and leftover Upcycle alpaca yarn from my River Stone Coatigan, I dived into the task of translating nature’s grandeur into stitches. The brim of the hat mirrored the rugged cliff faces surrounding the falls, while the textured patterns were reminiscent of the swirling waters. I then selected earthy colors that echoed the hues present in the rocks and foliage, for my collection of hats.

The process of crocheting the Rocky Ridge Hat became a meditative escape, each stitch weaving together memories of that remarkable day. As I worked on the hat, I imagined the cool breeze brushing against my face and the sound of the falls enveloping me once more. It was as if I was breathing life into the very essence of the Banff Bow River Falls.

Completing the hat, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment and connection to the natural world. The Rocky Ridge Hat became more than just a fashion accessory; it became a statement piece that embodies the magnificence of nature and the creative spirit within.

A lake surrounded by rocky trees.
Lake Agnes
A mountain lake surrounded by rocks and trees, with a hint of Rocky Ridge.

Canadian Rocky Mountains

Last December, I embarked on my first trip to the majestic Canadian Rockies in order to visit my eldest daughter, who was living in the town of Lake Louise. To say that I was in awe of the breathtaking scenery would be an understatement – it was an experience beyond belief. The sights I saw were nothing short of extraordinary, leaving an indelible mark on my soul. These awe-inspiring mountains and the pristine, crystal-clear waters that surrounded them ignited a newfound passion within me, which has since greatly influenced many of my recent designs.

 It brings me such joy to see that my second daughter, too, has fallen deeply in love with the Rocky Mountains. In fact, she has recently moved to the Rockies, opening up infinite opportunities to embark on many more visits. I am eagerly anticipating the countless creative possibilities that lie ahead as we immerse ourselves in the beauty of the Canadian mountains.

A rocky trail in the mountains with trees in the background, featuring a Rocky Ridge Crochet Hat worn by the hiker.

Can a Beginner Make a Crochet Hat?

Crocheting can be a wonderful hobby that’s both rewarding and creative. Many beginners are often eager to try their hand at making different crochet items, such as hats. The good news is, even if you’re new to crochet, you can absolutely make a crochet hat with the right guidance and a bit of patience!

The Rocky Ridge Crochet Hat – a fabulous pattern perfect for beginners who want to dip their toes into hat-making. With its stylish ribbed design and cozy fit, this hat is a versatile accessory that’s sure to impress.

But what makes this hat so beginner-friendly? The pattern itself is designed with simplicity in mind; it’s worked flat, so there’s no tricky shaping involved; you only need to be able to make a rectangle. The step-by-step instructions, along with the accompanying video tutorial, will guide you through each stitch, ensuring you never feel lost or overwhelmed.

Do not fear any potential roadblocks along the way. As a beginner, it’s natural to encounter challenges, but with some practice and determination, you’ll conquer them. Remember to take your time, be patient with yourself, and embrace the learning process. Crochet is a skill that improves with practice, so don’t hesitate to give it a try!

A man wearing a Rocky Ridge Crochet Hat stands on a wooden bridge overlooking a mountain.
Banff Gondola/ Mountain Ridge Cardigan

Video Tutorial

Join me and follow along to this detailed tutorial to complete the Rocky Ridge Crochet Hat.

YouTube video

What Yarn is Best for a Crochet Hat?

When it comes to finding the perfect yarn for crocheting hats, it’s essential to consider factors like warmth, durability, and comfort. One exceptional yarn that ticks all the boxes is the WeCrochet Upcycle Alpaca Blend. This unique yarn combines the luxurious softness of alpaca wool with the practicality and durability of acrylic.

The blend of alpaca wool and acrylic yarn ensures that your crochet hat is not only incredibly soft to the touch but also long-lasting. The addition of acrylic adds strength and durability, making it suitable for projects that require frequent use, such as hats.

One of the standout features of the WeCrochet Upcycle Alpaca Blend is its exceptional warmth. Alpaca wool is known for its excellent insulation properties, providing natural heat retention without being overly bulky. This means your crochet hat will keep you cozy during chilly winters or outdoor adventures.

Another remarkable aspect of this yarn is its eco-friendly nature. WeCrochet is committed to sustainable practices by using upcycled alpaca fibres in the production of this yarn. By choosing the Upcycle Alpaca Blend, you’re not only acquiring high-quality yarn, but you’re also actively supporting ethical and sustainable yarn production.

A colorful assortment of yarns and hats displayed on a white table, perfect for any crochet enthusiast or someone in need of a stylish hat.

Rocky Ridge Crochet Hat Yarn Requirements

Upcycle Alpaca Blend Worsted Weight #4

219yd/100g, 33% Alpaca, 34% Wool, 33% Acrylic, Shown in Garnet, Thyme and Graphite (Adult), Lapis (Toddler/Child), Topaz & Parchment (6-12mth) and Fawn (0-6mth)

Sizes

0-6mth (6-12mth, Child, Adult, Large Adult)

115 (145, 180, 215, 250) yards

A baby in a plaid hat sitting on a blanket, holding a crochet bag.

Substituting Yarn

Yarn substitution is an indispensable skill for crocheters, empowering you to achieve desired results in case the original yarn listed in a pattern is unavailable.

The Rocky Ridge, Crochet Hat pattern calls for WeCrochet Upcycle Alpaca Blend Worsted yarn. However, it’s important to note that although it is categorized as worsted weight, it leans closer to a DK-weight yarn and has a thinner consistency. Additionally, colours may vary slightly in thickness.

If you decide to substitute the yarn for this pattern, I have compiled a list of suitable alternatives. However, it’s crucial to conduct a gauge swatch using your chosen yarn and adjust your hook size accordingly to achieve the specified gauge of the pattern for correct sizing. This step is essential in ensuring that the final hat turns out as intended and fits perfectly.

Please refer to the substitution list and follow the recommended gauge swatching process to achieve the best results with your chosen yarn.

Yarn Substitutes

Swish Worsted 110yds/50g

Wool of the Andes Worsted or Tweed 110yds/50g

Heatherly Sport 328yds/100g Or Worsted

Lion Brand Color Theory 246yds/100g –

A woman wearing a beanie with a pom pom in front of a river, sporting the Rocky Ridge Crochet Hat.

Crochet Hooks Needed

US G+/7 (4.5mm)

US I/9 (5.5mm)

Hook Tray

Use code MJS15 for 15% off Furls Hooks

A man and woman posing for a selfie in front of a lake, both wearing Rocky Ridge Crochet Hats.
Lake Louise

Additional Supplies for the Rocky Ridge Crochet Hat

Yarn Needle

Scissors

Measuring Tape

5″ Faux Fur Pom Pom (CDN)

4.3″ size for baby hats

Personalized Tags (optional)

Helpful Resources

A person is holding a knitting hat with a sticker on it and a crochet bag.
Brick Bubble Tags

Gauge

Hat: 8.5 sts and 8.5 rows equal to 2″ with 5.5mm hook in hdc blo, sl st pattern

Band: 9 sts and 9 rows equal to 2″ with 4.5mm hook in sc blo

Rocky Ridge Crochet Hat Construction

To create the hat, begin by working from the side across in rows. As soon as the rectangle reaches a sufficient size to fit around the head, join the pieces together using slip stitches, ensuring that the wrong sides are facing each other. Next, work a ribbed band along the bottom edge of the hat using a join-as-you-go technique. Reattach the yarn to the top of the hat and gradually decrease stitches. Use a yarn needle to weave through the final stitches until the top is closed securely.

A woman holding a baby wearing a Rocky Ridge Crochet Hat.


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A man and woman wearing Rocky Ridge Crochet Hats taking a selfie at the top of a mountain.

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Rocky Ridge Crochet Hat Pattern

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Pattern Support is only available in our Facebook Community group and Video Tutorials.
No additional support is provided for modified patterns, alternate yarns, or changes to gauge.


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Abbreviations

Blo – Back Loop Only

Ch – Chain

Hdc – Half Double Crochet

Rep – Repeat

RS – Right Side

Sc – Single Crochet

Sk – Skip

Sl St – Slip Stitch

Sp(s) – Space(s)

St(s) – Stitch(es)

WS – Wrong Side

( ) – Work step in parentheses in indicated stitch

Size Chart

Pattern

Notes:

It’s important to crochet the slip stitches loosely for best results. If you find this stitch a bit challenging, I recommend checking out the video tutorial for some helpful tips and tricks to ensure you’re working through the correct stitches. It can be really helpful to see the technique demonstrated visually. So don’t hesitate to refer to the tutorial for some extra guidance. The starting chain indicates the height of the hat. For a more fitted style, you may reduce the number of chains.

Row 1 (RS):

With larger hook, put a slip knot on hook, ch 23 (27, 31, 35, 35) work 1 hdc in the back bump of the 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across, turn—22 (26, 30, 34, 34) sts.

Row 2 (WS):

Ch 1, loosely crochet 1 sl st in each st across, turn—22 (26, 30, 34, 34) sts.

Row 3:

Ch 1, work 1 hdc in the blo of the sl st from the previous row in each st across, turn—22 (26, 30, 34, 34) sts.

Rows 4-49 (57, 63, 69, 75):

Rep rows 2 & 3. Compare the rectangle size to the schematic measurements. Make sure you have completed enough rows to fit the rectangle around the head. Add or remove rows for the correct fit. The rectangle will slightly curve. Wet and block to straighten if desired.

Seam:

Fold the rectangle in half with the WS facing. Ch 1, work a sl st through each st of the first and last row, joining the rectangle together.

Band:

Setup Round:

Ch 1, 1 sc in each row around the base of the hat, place last sc into the sl st seam, sl st in the first sc to join—50 (58, 64, 70, 76) sts.

The band is worked in rows and joined as you go to the setup round of the hat. Change to smaller hook.

Row 1:

With smaller hook, ch 15 (17, 17, 19, 19), sc in the 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across, sk first st at the hat edge, sl st in the next 2 sts (hat edge), turn—14 (16, 16, 18, 18) sts.

Row 2:

Sk sl sts, sc in the blo of each st across, turn—14 (16, 16, 18, 18) sts.

Row 3:

Ch 1, sc in the blo of each st across, sl st in next 2 sts (hat edge), turn—14 (16, 16, 18, 18) sts.

Rows 4-50 (58, 64, 70, 76):

Rep Rows 2-3, ending after completion of Row 2 repeat. To join the band, ch 1, sl st the last row to row 1, working through the blo of each st across. Fasten off and weave in ends.

Top Hat Closure:

Round 1:

With smaller hook, put a slip knot on hook, join yarn to the top of hat at the seam with a sc, *sk next row, sc in next row (raised st row); rep from * around, sk the last row, sl st in the first sc to join—24 (29, 32, 35, 38) sts.

*You may want to decrease the hat further. Baby sizes round 2 is optional.

Round 2:

Ch 1, *sc2tog across next 2 sts; rep from * around, for odd number of st hats end with 1 sc in the last st. Fasten off with a long tail for weaving.

Weave the starting yarn tail on a yarn needle. Weave through every other st around, pull to close the top of hat. Then weave yarn needle around sts, then back in the opposite direction to secure the end. Lastly, Weave in tail.

Pom Pom:

Make a yarn pom pom or attach a faux fur pom pom. Sew snap to the top of the hat. Blow-dry pom to fluff and snap to the top of the hat. Use a 5-6″ pom pom for child and adult hats and a 4.3″ pom pom for baby hats. Hats are shown with 1.5″ x 1.5″ square and 0.75″ x 2.25″ garment tag as well as personalized name tags. Use a sewing needle and embroidery thread or Leather rivets to attach.

Personalized crochet pom pom beanie.
A baby wearing a knit beanie.

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This pattern is designed by Michelle Moore of MJ’s Off The Hook Designs Inc, based in Lakefield, Ontario, Canada. Your go-to source for modern, easy crochet patterns. Published on October 29th, 2023.


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