Easy Crochet Baby Bonnet Pattern (Free, 0–12 Months)

This easy crochet baby bonnet pattern is made from one simple rectangle that you fold and sew with just one seam. That's it! It's a gentle, stretchy bonnet that keeps little ears warm, and it makes a wonderful baby shower gift.

If you can crochet a straight rectangle, you can make this bonnet.

Why You'll Love This Baby Bonnet

Only one seam – no complicated shaping.
Stretchy ribbing that grows with baby.
Three sizes from newborn to 12 months.
Quick to make – about two hours.

Crochet Abbreviations (US Terms)

ch – chain
sc – single crochet
hdc – half double crochet
BLO – back loop only: insert your hook only under the loop farthest from you.

Sizes and Gauge

Sizes: 0–3 months (3–6 months, 6–12 months).
Gauge: 16 hdc and 15 rows in BLO = 10 cm.

Choose a soft, washable baby yarn. Cotton or bamboo blends are gentle on sensitive skin.

Step 1: Crochet the Rectangle

Ch 22 (24, 26).

Row 1: Hdc in the 3rd ch from the hook and in each ch across. Turn. (20 (22, 24) hdc)

Row 2: Ch 1 (does not count as a stitch), hdc in the BLO of each stitch across. Turn.

Repeat Row 2 until you have 44 (48, 52) rows. Your rectangle should measure about 30 (32, 35) cm long.

Fasten off, leaving a long 40 cm tail for sewing.

Step 2: Fold and Sew the Back Seam

Lay the rectangle flat with the ribs running up and down.
Fold it in half so the two short ends meet.
Using the long tail and your tapestry needle, sew along one long edge from the fold to the corners. This is the back of the bonnet.
Turn the bonnet right side out. The open long edge is the face opening, and the bottom edge sits at the neck.

Step 3: Add the Edging and Ties

Join yarn at one lower corner. Ch 1 and work 1 round of sc evenly around the face opening and the neck edge. Join and fasten off.

Cut the ribbon into two 30 cm pieces. Thread one through the stitches at each lower front corner and tie a secure double knot.

Safety note: always make sure ribbons are firmly attached and never leave a baby unsupervised while wearing a bonnet with ties. For newborns, you can skip the ribbons and add a crocheted strap with a large button instead.

Beginner Tips

Count your stitches every few rows so the edges stay straight.
Measure the baby's head if you can – it's the best way to choose a size.
Use a soft yarn that's labeled machine washable. Parents will thank you!

Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

The bonnet is too small. Add 4 more rows before folding.
The seam is bulky. Sew with a whip stitch through the outer loops only.
The edges are wavy. You may be adding stitches at the ends of rows – check your counts.

FAQ

What size crochet baby bonnet should I make for a newborn?

Make the 0–3 months size. It fits a head circumference of about 35–40 cm.

What is the best yarn for baby bonnets?

A soft DK cotton, bamboo or baby acrylic that is machine washable and not fuzzy.

Can I make this bonnet without ribbons?

Yes. Crochet a short strap at one corner and sew a large, secure button on the other.

Complete the set with our Newborn Baby Booties, or browse all free crochet baby patterns.