This slouchy hat uses soft worsted weight yarn to create a relaxed, comfortable fit that hugs your head without feeling tight. The fabric features a slight drape that looks great on both teens and adults, making it a reliable choice for handmade gifts. You will master the basic half double crochet stitch worked in the back loop to achieve its signature ribbed texture and flexible structure. Whether you want to clear out your stash with a neutral color or pick a bold shade for winter, this project remains a go-to choice. Grab your hook and prepare to finish this warm accessory in just a few hours.

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Why You’ll Love This Pattern

The Classic Crochet Granny Square is the quintessential building block for fiber artists because it balances simplicity with endless versatility. This pattern relies on basic stitches that create a rhythmic, meditative motion perfect for winding down after a long day. You can complete a single square in under twenty minutes, making it an ideal choice for using up small amounts of leftover yarn from larger projects. Its modular nature allows you to customize the final size of your blanket, bag, or pillow simply by joining more squares together. Because it uses double crochet stitches, the fabric remains airy and drapes beautifully without being too thick or heavy.

I started these as a stash-busting project and ended up making an entire throw blanket because the pattern is so easy to memorize and keep in my bag for travel

— Sarah, long-time crocheter

Pattern Overview & Skill Level

Skill Level: Beginner
Approximate Time: 15–20 minutes per square
Construction: Worked in joined rounds from the center outward
Finished Dimensions: Approximately 5 inches by 5 inches using medium weight yarn

Materials & Supplies Needed

Yarn: Worsted weight (#4), acrylic or cotton blend, approximately 15 yards per square.
Hook Size: 5.0 mm (H-8) crochet hook.
Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and a pair of sharp scissors.
Yarn substitutions: You can use DK weight yarn for a smaller, more delicate square or bulky weight for a faster, chunkier finish. Note that changing the weight will require an adjustment in hook size and will change the final dimensions of the project.

Stitch Guide & Abbreviations (US Terms)

ch: chain
sl st: slip stitch
dc: double crochet
dc-cluster: a group of 3 double crochet stitches worked into the same space
sp: space
rnd: round

Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions

Granny Square Body

Rnd 1: Ch 4, sl st to the first chain to form a ring. Ch 3 (counts as first dc), work 2 dc into the ring, ch 2, *3 dc into ring, ch 2; repeat from * two more times. Join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch-3. (12 dc, 4 ch-2 spaces)
Rnd 2: Sl st into the next dc and into the first ch-2 corner space. Ch 3, (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in same corner space. *Ch 1, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in next corner space; repeat from * two more times. Ch 1, join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch-3. (24 dc, 4 ch-2 spaces, 4 ch-1 spaces)
Rnd 3: Sl st into the next 2 dc and into the corner space. Ch 3, (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in corner space. *Ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 space, ch 1, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in next corner space; repeat from * two more times. Ch 1, 3 dc in final ch-1 space, ch 1, join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch-3. (36 dc, 4 ch-2 spaces, 8 ch-1 spaces)
Rnd 4: Continue in the established pattern. Work 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc in each corner and 3 dc in each side ch-1 space, separated by ch-1. Join with a sl st to finish. (48 dc, 4 ch-2 spaces, 12 ch-1 spaces)

Finishing

After completing the final round, cut the yarn leaving a 6-inch tail. Pull the tail through the final loop on your hook to secure it. Use your tapestry needle to weave the tail through the back of the stitches to hide it. If you are making multiple squares, keep the ends manageable by weaving them in as you finish each individual square.

Care & Washing Instructions

Machine wash your finished item on a gentle cycle in cold water using a mild detergent.
Lay the piece flat on a clean towel to air dry, ensuring it is shaped correctly while damp.
Avoid using bleach or high-heat drying, as these can compromise the structure and softness of the acrylic or cotton fibers.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Keep your tension consistent throughout the rounds to ensure your corners remain square rather than curling or rippling.
Place a stitch marker in the top of your beginning chain to make it easier to locate the joining point at the end of each round.
Weave in your ends diagonally across the stitches on the back side of the work to ensure they stay secure through repeated washings.
If you want a larger square, simply continue adding rounds following the same logic of putting (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in each corner and 3 dc in every side space. Remember that larger squares will require significantly more yarn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different colors for each round?

Yes, changing colors every round is a popular way to use scrap yarn. Simply fasten off at the end of each round and join your new color in any corner space to begin the next round.

Is this pattern suitable for a total beginner?

This pattern is excellent for beginners because it uses only basic stitches and clear, repetitive sequences. It provides great practice for maintaining even tension and understanding how to work into chain spaces.

Can I sell items made from this pattern?

You are welcome to sell finished items created from this pattern. However, you must credit the designer and use your own original photographs for any product listings.

Why are my corners curling?

Curling usually happens if your tension is too tight. If you notice your square cupping, try moving up to a slightly larger hook size or consciously loosening your grip on the yarn while working the corner spaces.

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Your new slouchy hat provides a stylish layer of warmth for chilly mornings or windy walks. You might experiment with adding a faux fur pompom to the top or choosing a self-striping yarn to create interesting color shifts without switching skeins. Post a picture of your finished work on your favorite social media site so other makers can see your color choices. Browse through the other free projects on my blog to find your next afternoon craft after you finish this cozy headwear.