Knit and Crochet Hat Size Chart

Use this handy hat size chart to crochet or knit hats that really fit! There is a version of the chart in inches, and one in centimeters. Make a basic beanie, or use the chart as a starting point to create more complex designs.

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Hat Size Chart in Inches | Hat Size Chart in Centimeters

Choosing a Size

The best way to make a custom-fit hat is always to measure the head you are making it for. But sometimes that’s just not possible. That’s where this hat size chart comes in handy. Start by choosing a size based on the age/size labels. The head circumferences are based on the CYC head circumference size chart. Once you have a starting size, think about any adjustments you may want to make.

Adjusting the circumference

All the hat circumferences include some negative ease. This means they are smaller than the head circumference, to allow the hat to stretch and fit snugly. The amount of ease varies from 1-3” / 2.5-7.5 cm for the Adult sizes to 0-1” / 0-2.5 cm for the Preemie sizes. If you want a tighter or looser fit, you can make the circumference slightly smaller or larger.

Also consider the yarn and stitch pattern you will be using. If it’s a particularly stiff fabric, you may want a slightly larger circumference for a roomier fit. You may also want to go a bit larger if it’s a very thick fabric, like with super bulky yarns, where the inside circumference may be noticeably smaller than the outside circumference. If it’s a very loose fabric with a lot of drape that struggles to hold its shape, you may want a slightly smaller circumference.

If you plan to have a ribbed brim on your hat, this will also help to draw the hat in for a snug fit. Be sure the ribbing stretches comfortably to the desired circumference.

Adjusting the Length

This hat size chart is based on a traditional, beanie-style hat, extending to approximately the middle to bottom of the ear. Add extra length as desired for a slouchier fit or a fold-up brim. You can also remove a little bit of length for an above-ear fit.

Making a Basic Hat

For a top-down hat, start with a small center circle and increase to the diameter / circumference listed. Then work without increasing until you reach the desired length.

For a bottom-up hat, make a starting chain or cast-on the length of the hat circumference and join to work in the round. Work without increasing or decreasing until you reach the desired length. Then begin decreasing to shape the crown.

Add any stitch patterns you like within this basic structure.

Different Styles of Hat

A basic beanie often has a flat or nearly flat circle at the top, with straight sides. Because the crown is flat, it adds little to no overall length to the hat.

You can adjust the rate of increase/decrease to change the shape of the crown, but keep in mind this will contribute more to the overall length of the hat, so the length will need to be adjusted accordingly.

Curved Crown

Spacing the increases/decreases out a bit more at the bottom of the crown will cause the crown to curve for a smoother fit. If you’re working top-down, start with a flat circle and then as you approach the final circumference, slow down the increases. If you’re working bottom-up, start the increases more slowly, then finish with a flat circle.

Pointed Hat

A slow and even rate of increase throughout the crown will make it come to a point at the top. Be sure to leave some length for a straight brim on the hat, or you may find it fits too tightly just above the bottom edge.

Beret or Slouchy Hat

The hat circumference should fit snugly at the brim, but can be wider above that. Make it just a bit wider above the brim for a slouchier fit. For a beret, make the crown a flat circle that gets much wider than the target circumference, and then comes in quickly to the target circumference at the brim.

Hat Patterns

Looking for a great hat pattern? Check out the Knit Hat Patterns and Crochet Hat Patterns on this site! Most are based on similar sizing, with slight adjustments for the various stitch patterns and styles.

Hat Size Chart in Inches

Size	To Fit Head Circumference	Hat Circumference	Crown Diameter	Hat Length
Small Preemie	10 – 11	10	3.25	4.5
Large Preemie	11 – 12	11	3.5	5
Newborn (0-6 months	12 – 14	12	3.75	6
Baby (6-12 months)	14 – 16	13.5	4.25	6.5
Toddler (1-3 years)	16 – 18	15.5	5	7
Child (3-10 years)	18 – 20	17.5	5.5	7.75
Teen / Small Adult	20 – 22	19	6	8.5
Medium Adult	21 – 23	20	6.25	8.75
Large Adult	22 – 24	21	6.75	9

Hat Size Chart in Centimeters

Size	To Fit Head Circumference	Hat Circumference	Crown Diameter	Hat Length
Small Preemie	25 – 30	25	8	11.5
Large Preemie	27.5 – 32.5	27.5	9	12.5
Newborn (0-6 months	30 – 35	30	9.5	15
Baby (6-12 months)	35 – 40	34	11	16.5
Toddler (1-3 years)	40 – 45	39	12.5	17.5
Child (3-10 years)	45 – 50	44	14	19.5
Teen / Small Adult	50 – 55	47.5	15	21.5
Medium Adult	52.5 – 57.5	50	16	22
Large Adult	55 – 60	52.5	16.5	22.5

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