The Club Woman Hat is a stunning example of how a simple beret can be elevated with the right trimmings and thoughtful details. The foundation of this pattern is the Versatile Beret Pattern. This design merges the timeless elegance ofthat pattern with a touch of artistry, making it a look like a completely different hat for formal occasions or stylish everyday wear. The combination of carefully crafted tucks and bead-accented trimmings ensures that this hat is as unique as it is sophisticated.
Adapted from a 1950s pattern, the Club Woman Hat retains its vintage charm while incorporating modern materials and techniques. The versatile beret base provides a canvas for the intricate detailing that transforms this hat into a standout piece. By using contemporary tools and updated yarn options, today’s crafters can create a hat that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
This pattern offers endless possibilities for customization. Experiment with different yarn colors, bead types, and metallic threads to create a hat that reflects your personal style. Whether you stay true to the vintage aesthetic or infuse it with a modern twist, the Club Woman Hat allows you to celebrate the art of crochet while creating a timeless accessory.
This pattern is transformed, adapted, and expanded from a public domain design originally published in Hats by Beehive Knitted and Crocheted (1950’s era). While the original design is in the public domain, the rewritten instructions and supplementary content on this site are ©Tiffany Bliss Mullins, 2024. All rights reserved. Have questions about this pattern, public domain, or copyright? Visit the FAQ page for answers and resources.
Versatile Beret Pattern
Materials
- 3 oz. Miss Canada Crochet-Knitting Wool
- One No. 4 Steel Crochet Hook (American Gauge)
Instructions
- Foundation Round: Ch 4, join with a slip stitch to form a ring.
- Round 1: Work 8 sc into the ring, join to the first sc with a slip stitch. Turn.
- Round 2: Work 2 sc in each sc around. (16 sc).
- Round 3: Work 1 sc in each sc of the previous round.
- Round 4: Work 2 sc in the next sc, 1 sc in the next sc. Repeat from * around. (32 sc).
- Continue Increasing:
- Work 2 sc evenly spaced in each round, with one additional sc between increases in every successive round, until the diameter reaches 6 inches.
- Ensure the edge is flat and round, adjusting increases to avoid stacking them directly on top of each other.
- Crown Depth: Work even in sc without increases until the piece measures 6 inches from the center to the outer edge.
- Shaping the Brim:
- Round 1 (Increase): Work 2 sc in one sc, 1 sc in the next. Repeat around.
- Round 2: Work 1 sc in each sc.
- Repeat Round 2 until the brim measures 2½ inches.
- Finishing:
- Work sc2tog around for a neat brim edge.
- Fasten off and weave in ends.
Club Woman Hat Trimming
Materials
- 24 small pearl beads
- 24 seed beads
- 12 inches of heavy millinery wire
- 2 buttons (½ inch diameter)
- Approximately 4 yards of metallic thread
- One beading needle
Instructions
- Preparing the Wire and Buttons:
- Cut the wire in half, creating two 6-inch pieces.
- Insert one wire through one button hole and back up through another hole.
- Twist the ends of the wire together, forming a sturdy stem.
- Crocheting the Trimming:
- With metallic thread, ch 4 and join with a slip stitch to form a ring.
- Round 1: Work 6 sc into the ring.
- Round 2: Work 2 sc in each sc around.
- Round 3: Work 2 sc in the next sc, 1 sc in the next sc. Repeat around.
- Round 4: Work 2 sc in the next sc, 1 sc in the next 2 sc. Repeat around. (24 sc).
- Creating the Dome Shape:
- Work 2 rounds of sc evenly.
- Switch to the main yarn and work 3 additional rounds evenly in sc.
- Insert the button and wire through the opening, filling the space with wool or absorbent cotton.
- Continue working sc, decreasing every 12th st, until only 6 sts remain.
- Fasten off, leaving wire ends protruding.
- Adding Beads:
- Between the last metallic round and the first yarn round, sew beads evenly.
- For each bead: Bring the needle up through the pearl, add a seed bead, and pass the needle back through the pearl to secure.
- Finishing the Trimming:
- Repeat the process to create a second trimming piece.
- Arranging the Hat:
- Place the beret on your head.
- Pin two horizontal tucks across the front, extending further back on the right side.
- The upper tuck should be 1 inch deep at its widest, and the lower tuck 1¼ inches deep. Taper both tucks to nothing at the ends.
- Make a vertical tuck (approximately 1¼ inches deep) between the two horizontal tucks.
- Insert and secure the trimming pieces into the vertical tuck for a polished and elegant look.
This updated version of the Club Woman Hat brings vintage sophistication to modern crafting. With its elegant trims, intricate beadwork, and carefully placed tucks, this beret offers a timeless, polished look perfect for formal events or stylish gatherings. Whether you recreate it for a special occasion or as a statement piece for your wardrobe, this pattern combines the charm of vintage fashion with your unique, personal touch. Enjoy crafting and wearing this versatile and elegant design!
