This flowered hat is a stunning example of vintage millinery design, blending crochet and knit techniques to create an elegant and structured accessory. The hat itself is knitted, the flowers that adorn it are crocheted. This hat features a gracefully shaped brim, a fitted crown, and vibrant crocheted flowers with bead accents, this hat captures the charm and sophistication of mid-century fashion. The combination of textured yarns, millinery wire, and padded tubing ensures a beautiful shape and durable construction.
Originally crafted in the 1950s, this design reflects the era’s emphasis on handcrafted accessories that paired functionality with artistic flair. The intricate detailing of the crocheted flowers and leaves adds a unique, personal touch, while the structural elements showcase the skill and precision required in hat making. Perfect for formal occasions or as a statement piece, this hat is as practical as it is beautiful.
This updated pattern makes it easier for modern crafters to recreate this timeless accessory while staying true to the original design. With clear instructions and the flexibility to customize colors and details, this project is an excellent way to explore vintage millinery techniques and create a truly one-of-a-kind piece. Whether for personal use or as a thoughtful handmade gift, this flowered hat is a delightful nod to the artistry of the past.
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.
The Flowered Hat Knitting Pattern with Crochet Flowers
Key Details
- Type: Crochet and knit decorative flowered hat with a structured brim and floral embellishments.
- Size: Head size 22 inches.
- Gauge: 9 stitches and 11 rows = 1 inch in Stockinette stitch (knit).
- Features: Knitted crown and brim with a reinforced structure, crocheted flowers and leaves, beaded embellishments, and ribbon accents.
Materials
- Yarn:
- 3 oz of DK weight yarn (e.g., a wool or wool blend) in the main color for the hat.
- Small amounts of DK weight yarn in various flower colors, dark green for leaves, and brown for stems.
- Knitting Needles:
- Set of 4 double-pointed needles, US Size 1 (2.25 mm).
- Crochet Hook: Steel crochet hook, US No. 4 (2 mm).
- Ribbons:
- Grosgrain ribbon: 1 inch wide, ¾ yard.
- Taffeta ribbon: 1¾ inches wide, 1 yard.
- Millinery Supplies:
- Padded tubing or cable cord: 30 inches, ¾ inch in diameter.
- Millinery wire: 44 inches long.
- Beads: Seed beads in complementary colors.
- Other Tools: Beading needle, matching sewing thread, scissors.
Pattern
Crown
- Foundation: Cast on 152 stitches (50, 50, 52) evenly across 4 double-pointed needles. Join in the round, being careful not to twist.
- Rounds 1–3: Purl 1 round, knit 1 round, purl 1 round.
- Round 4: (Knit 17, K2tog); repeat from * to the end of the round.
- Repeat Rounds 1–3.
- Round 8: (Knit 16, K2tog); repeat from * to the end of the round.
- Continue this pattern, working Rounds 1–3 between decrease rounds, with 1 fewer stitch between decreases each time, until 96 stitches remain.
- Decrease every alternate round until 16 stitches remain. (K2tog) 8 times. Break the yarn, thread the end through the remaining stitches, and pull tight to close.
Lightly press the crown to measure 6 inches in diameter.
Brim
- Foundation: Cast on 45 stitches with two needles.
- Knit 24 rows in Garter stitch (knit every row).
- Begin shaping:
- Row 1: Knit 21, increase 1 stitch in the next stitch, knit 1, increase 1 stitch in the next stitch, knit 21.
- Rows 2–3: Knit to the last 15 stitches, turn.
- Row 4: Knit to the end of the row.
- Repeat the shaping sequence as follows:
- Every 25th row: Add 1 stitch to each side of the center stitch.
- Continue increasing until you have 53 stitches on the needle.
- Begin decreasing:
- Next Row: (Knit to center stitch, K2tog, knit center stitch, K2tog, knit to end).
- Repeat decreases every 24th row until 45 stitches remain.
- Sew the cast-on edge to the cast-off edge to form a circle.
Crochet Flowers
- Petals:
- Chain 3 and join into a ring with a slip stitch.
- Round 1: Work 11 single crochets into the ring.
- Round 2: Work 2 single crochets into each stitch (22 sc).
- Rounds 3–4: Work 1 single crochet in each stitch.
Fasten off and weave in ends. Add seed beads spaced approximately ½ inch apart along Round 3. Create 4 petals per flower. Sew the petals together at the center to form a flower. Make 9 more flowers in various colors.
- Leaves:
- Chain 9. Single crochet in the 2nd chain from the hook and in each chain across. Work 3 single crochets into the last chain, then single crochet back along the opposite side of the chain. Join with a slip stitch.
- Add seed beads around the edge of the leaf.
Make 20 leaves in total.
Stems
- Divide the remaining millinery wire into two 6-inch pieces.
- Wrap brown yarn tightly around the wire, covering it completely and folding over the ends to secure.
Attach 4 flowers with 2 leaves each to each stem. Curve the stems slightly and sew them into position at the center back of the hat.
Finishing
- Insert millinery tubing around the brim. Sew grosgrain ribbon to the inner edge of the brim and tack in place.
- Tie the taffeta ribbon into a bow and sew it below the flowers at the back.
- Arrange and sew the remaining flowers and leaves around the brim as desired.
This flowered hat is a stunning accessory that combines elegant vintage styling with vibrant floral details. Whether worn for special occasions or displayed as a nostalgic piece of art, this project showcases timeless craftsmanship with a modern touch.
