Introduction
Rock the ’90s vibe with a bucket hat from this list of free crochet bucket hat patterns.
Bucket hats became popular among rappers and other musicians in the 1980s and remained a part of street fashion throughout the ‘90s. Also called a fisherman’s hat, bucket hats are easy to wear and protect you from the sun.
While they are usually associated with summer, bucket hats can be worn any time of the year. With a lot of free bucket hat crochet patterns available, you will surely find one that will match your style.
How Do You Crochet a Bucket Hat?
Bucket hats are usually crocheted from the top down, from the crown to the brim. This method allows you to adjust as you go to achieve a better fit.
You can also make bucket hats using separate motifs like granny squares (or hexagons!) that you attach to each other. Speaking of hexagons, learn how to crochet anything with hexagons in my masterclass! Get free access for 2 days!
The brim of a bucket hat can be slightly flared or ruffled, depending on the crochet hat pattern you are following.
What Yarn is Best for Bucket Hats?
Cotton yarn is best for making bucket hats. Cotton fiber is breathable and holds its shape really well.
If you are making a bucket hat for warmer months, cotton, linen, raffia, or hemp are your best choice of fiber. Here are a few of our favorite yarn choices for crochet bucket hats:
- WeCrochet CotLin
- Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
- Knit Picks Dishie
- Lily Sugar’n Cream
- Universal Yarns Yashi
- Lion Brand Just Hemp
- Bernat Maker Home Dec
For colder months you can use bulky to super bulky yarn made from wool, chenille, or even faux fur, such as:
- Premier Basix Chenille
- Lion Brand Hometown Yarn
- Lion Brand Wool Ease, or Wool Ease Thick & Quick
- Premier Parfait Chunky
- Feels Like Butta Thick & Quick
- Lion Brand Go for Faux, or Go for Faux Thick & Quick
- Knit Picks Fable Fur
- Lion Brand Go for Fleece
How Long Does it Take to Crochet a Bucket Hat?
A simple bucket hat pattern will take around two or three hours to make.
But keep in mind that the approximate time will vary from one crocheter to another. There are several factors to consider such as the crocheter’s skill level, the pattern’s level of difficulty, and the crocheter’s speed.
How Do You Size a Bucket Hat?
To be able to create a comfortably fitting bucket hat, you will need to get accurate measurements of the head you are trying to cover.
Be sure to check the pattern for a sizing guide and gauge to make sure you get an exact fit.
First, you will need to measure the crown diameter. This is the top part of your hat. If you make this too small, your hat will be too tight. Make it too big and your head will get lost in your hat.
While you are stitching the hat, once you reach the diameter for your size, place it on your head to check if it feels right and adjust as necessary before continuing on to crocheting your hat.
If your pattern does not have a size guide, you may refer to the chart below for some basic measurements:
What Do You Need to Crochet a Bucket Hat?
To make a bucket hat you will need basic crochet supplies such as yarn, a crochet hook, scissors, a tape measure, and a stitch marker.
- Yarn: Check your pattern for the suggested yarn and yarn weight to use (in case you will substitute). Most bucket hat patterns use (4) Worsted weight yarn.
- Crochet hook: Worsted weight yarn usually calls for a G (4.0mm) to J (6.0mm) crochet hook, but check the pattern you are using to see what it calls for.
- Tape measure: Getting the right measurements will help make sure you get a bucket hat that fits.
- Stitch markers will help you keep track of your rounds, especially when crocheting in continuous rounds.
- Yarn needle (tapestry needle) for weaving in ends.
- Scissors for trimming yarn.
You will also need to know basic crochet skills. You should know the basic stitches and their abbreviations such as slip stitches (sl st), chains (ch), single crochet stitches (sc), half double crochet stitches (hdc), and double crochet stitches (dc). You should also be familiar with making a magic ring, crocheting in the front loop (flo) and back loop (blo).
If any of these things are unfamiliar to you, no worries. Check out my Crochet Fundamentals course to learn the basics, from how to work the basic stitches to reading patterns, working in rounds, and more.
Tips For Crocheting a Bucket Hat
Here are some tips to help make sure you get the perfect bucket hat for you!
Be Sure to Check Your Gauge
Getting the right gauge will make a big difference in making a hat that fits just right versus a hat that is way too big (or too small!). Consult your pattern to check the gauge and make a gauge swatch before you begin crocheting your bucket hat.
Check Your Hook Size
Many brimmed bucket hats will require you to use a smaller hook when making the brim. This helps make the brim a little sturdier because of the more compact stitches you will get from using a smaller hook.
Check the Size As You Go
Most patterns include measurements and adjustments for different sizes. But if you are using a different yarn weight or hook size than what is indicated in the pattern, it is best to check the size as you go.
Take Frequent Breaks
Crocheting with cotton yarn is often more strenuous on the hands. To avoid hand strain, take frequent breaks to stretch and relax your muscles.
Free Crochet Bucket Hat Patterns
Hop on the 90’s trend that everyone is obsessing over! Check out these free crochet patterns to make cool bucket hats for yourself.
Cecil the Cat
Designer: Yarn Society
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Suggested yarn: Knit Picks Dishie
This little kitty is about 4.5 inches tall when made with a worsted weight yarn. But if you use a bigger, bulkier yarn, you can easily make an equally cute, more huggable Cecil.
Bluebell Sun Hat
Designer: Snowdrop Creates
Yarn weight: (2) Sport
Yarn suggestion: Schachenmayr Catania
A gorgeous doily feature on the top and a large, flared brim is what sets this hat apart. This hat will look cute in one color, or you can make the doily stand out by using a complementing color. Experiment with different doily designs to create a variety of these cute sun hats.
Sun and Sand Bucket Hat
Designer: Made with a Twist
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
With or without stripes, this hat will look perfect on your little one. Make themed hats using colors for every occasion. This cute hat will shade your little one’s eyes while still letting them see the world around them.
Easy Crochet Toddler Sun Hat
Designer: Christaco Designs
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Knit Picks Dishie
This easy crochet bucket hat pattern is perfect for those bright sunny days. It is crocheted top down and uses less than a skein of yarn (100g) for the toddler size. Using worsted weight cotton yarn will make it more comfortable and easy to care for as well. Tha pattern contains photo tutorials to help beginner crocheters.
Crochet Watermelon Sun Hat
Designer: Repeat Crafter Me
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
Double crochet stitches are all you need to make this quick and easy hat. Add some black beads for “seeds,” and you will have one adorable baby watermelon in no time.
Crochet Reversible Bucket Hat
Designer: Nine Inspired
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Lion Brand Pima Cotton
Two colors in one hat! This reversible hat has double the thickness of a regular bucket hat. It’s perfect for keeping those little heads warm during the colder months, or for when they want to switch up their style.
Liv Crochet Bucket Hat
Designer: Sys Fredens, via Hobbii
Yarn weight: (1) Superfine
Yarn suggestion: Scheepjes Cotton 8
This sweet little bucket hat will make your little one’s summer photos instantly Instagram worthy. Add cute flower buttons for accents and they will be the perfect accessory for any summer outfit.
Dahlia Sun Hat
Designer: Ned and Mimi
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Knit Picks Comfy Color Mist
This family friendly hat (which is sized up to adults!) has a fun flower motif on the crown and works up really quick! Using just single crochet for the body, you can quickly and easily make matching hats for the whole family.
Lilac Sun Hat
Designer: Snowdrop Creates
Yarn weight: (2) Sport
Yarn suggestion: Schachenmayr Catania
This beginner friendly hat features a cute ruffled brim. It will keep the head and eyes shaded, and make your little one (or you!) look oh so adorable. You could also make these to sell at craft fairs during the warmer months.
Easy Crochet Bucket Hat Patterns
Crochet bucket hats are making their way back into the fashion scene. Join the trend by making one of these easy crochet bucket hat patterns.
Scrappy Crochet Bucket Hat
Designer: Make and Do Crew
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
The perfect beginner-friendly, stash-busting project. Create a unique look by using up yarn scraps from your stash. No need to worry about ends to weave because you can hide your yarn tails as you go!
Easy Weekend Bucket Hat
Designer: Leelee Knits
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Yarn suggestion: WeCrochet CotLin
Would you believe that this hat is made with just single crochet stitches? Yes, even the horizontal bands are made with just single crochet stitches worked in the back loop! This super easy crochet bucket hat pattern is easy to follow and is great for beginner crocheters.
Beach Day Bucket Hat
Designer: Hooked on Homemade Happiness
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Lion Brand Pima Cotton
This crochet bucket hat is not only perfect for the beach, it is also a great hat to donate to cancer centers, schools, or homeless centers. It provides complete head coverage with an added length from the brim.
Oh Snap! Crochet Bucket Hat
Designer: Once Upon a Cheerio
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: WeCrochet Dishie
This cute checkered bucket hat will surely get a you a lot of Facebook likes. Made with sturdy cotton yarn, this hat will easily become one of your favorites. Use bright colors for summer or muted neutrals for the fall so you will always have one to use for any season.
Basic Bucket Hat
Designer: Jenny and Teddy
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Yarn suggestion: Wool and The Gang Ra-Ra-Raffia
This super easy crochet bucket hat pattern is made with raffia yarn, which makes it perfect for summer beach outings. The hat is made up of three parts – the crown, the bucket and the brim. You may opt to use mercerized cotton yarn such as Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton instead of raffia.
Brickhouse Bucket Hat
Designer: Heart Hook Home
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: WeCrochet Dishie
This chic, textured crochet bucket hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun’s harsh UV rays. Make neutral colored ones to use for your daily morning walks, or crochet a hat in school colors to wear to school activities.
Sun Daze Bucket Hat
Designer: Hooked on Homemade Happiness
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Lion Brand Pima Cotton
Using basic stitches, you’ll create a lovely texture for this crochet bucket hat. Available in teen/adult and large adult sizes, this is a sweet hat to wear for beach outings.
Willow Bucket Hat
Designer: Chris Hamada, via Ravelry
Yarn weight: (5) Bulky
Yarn suggestion: Red Heart Hygge
Hygge is the Danish concept of coziness and comfort, which you will definitely get when you use this yarn to make this crochet bucket hat. Because it uses bulky weight yarn, this crochet bucket hat is perfect for keeping your head warm during the colder months.
Basketweave Bucket Hat
Designer: Hooked on Homemade Happiness
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: I Love This Cotton
This pattern starts as a basic double crochet beanie, but with the added textured brim it becomes a cute bucket hat. Front and back post stitches give this hat its textured, basketweave look. Use cotton yarn for a more breathable hat to use in the summer.
Beach Vibe Sun Hat
Designer: Jenny and Teddy
Yarn weight: (3) DK (two strands held together) or (5) Bulky
Yarn suggestion: Patons Grace or Bernat Maker Home Dec
This simple bucket hat uses single crochet stitches for the body and double crochet stitches for the granny stitch pattern on its floppy ruffled brim. The pattern uses two strands of DK weight cotton yarn held together, but you can easily substitute with a bulky weight cotton yarn.
Pretty in Spring Crochet Bucket Hat
Designer: Yarn Craftee
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Yarn suggestion: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton DK
A beginner friendly pattern, this hat uses only single crochet stitches worked in a spiral round. Add some flower appliques to make it the perfect spring hat. Wear it with the brim down or fold it slightly at the side for a cute, casual look.
Bucket Hat Crochet Pattern
Designer: Zamiguz
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: I Love This Cotton
This bucket hat pattern uses the yarn under technique to get the x-shaped single crochet look that you usually see in amigurumi patterns. Make it in a solid color or use yarn scraps to make a colorful striped hat.
Brunch Bucket Hat
Designer: Hooked on Homemade Happiness
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Knit Picks Dishie
Use cotton yarn to make this gorgeous bucket hat perfect for bright, summer days. Single crochet and double crochet stitches give it a simple textured look. This is another great pattern to give to cancer centers or homeless shelters in the summer.
Annie Bucket Hat
Designer: Two of Wands
Yarn weight: (6) Super bulky
Yarn suggestion: Lion Brand Go For Faux
Faux fur hats are a must have, especially when the weather starts getting colder. With the different colors of this fun faux yarn, you will have a hard time choosing just one to use to make this soft and fluffy hat!
Faux Fur Bucket Hat
Designer: Crafty Kitty Crochet
Yarn weight: (6) Super bulky
Yarn suggestion: Lion Brand Go For Faux
What better way to get that warm fuzzy feeling than to make a warm, fuzzy faux fur hat! This hat is perfect for dressing up your winter wardrobe, selling at craft fairs, and even as holiday gifts.
Sherpa Bucket Hat
Designer: Mama in a Stitch
Yarn weight: (7) Jumbo
Yarn suggestion: Lion Brand Go For Fleece
Why buy an expensive fur hat when you can make one for yourself! This warm and cozy bucket hat will add style to any of your winter outfits. Show off that 90’s vibe with style when you wear this fuzzy bucket hat.
Theo Bucket Hat
Designer: Two of Wands
Yarn weight: (7) Jumbo
Yarn suggestion: Lion Brand Go For Fleece
This snuggly color-blocked bucket hat works up quickly with jumbo weight yarn. These hats make perfect gifts for family and friends. Mix-and-match colors to make matching hats for you and your bffs!
Granny Square Bucket Hat Patterns
Granny squares add an interesting, colorful boho element to crochet bucket hats. With the many granny square variations available, you’ll be able to crochet a truly unique bucket hat.
Red Heart Crochet Granny Square Bucket Hat
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Red Heart Super Saver O’Go
This vibrant crochet bucket hat will surely brighten up anyone’s day! O’Go yarn has perfectly coordinated colors, you won’t have to worry about choosing the perfect color combination. Explore the different O’Go color schemes to create a bucket hat for every season.
Beautiful Crochet Daisy Flower Bucket Hat
Designer: My Accessory Box
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Yarn suggestion: Nako Calico
The embossed crochet daisy flower square is what makes this hat stand out. Make five of these squares and join them together to complete this crochet bucket hat pattern. Modifications to make smaller sizes are also available if you want to make one for your little ones.
Crochet Dot Square Bucket Hat
Designer: Raffamusa Designs
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Yarn suggestion: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton DK
Crochet a hat for every occasion just by changing the colors on the basic circle granny square you will use to make this cute crochet bucket hat. Use pastels to make a hat for spring, orange and black for a hat for Halloween, or red, yellow, and green for a hat with a Christmas theme. And with three sizes available, you can make one for every family member.
Dune Bucket Hat
Designer: Bruna for Bella Coco
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Yarn suggestion: Schachenmayr Catania
The earthy colors of this crochet bucket hat are perfect for a Pinterest-worthy vintage aesthetic. You will need six squares to create the hat circumference. Modifications for using worsted weight yarn are also provided, as well as step-by-step photo tutorials for visual learners.
Halcyon Bucket Hat
Designer: Make and Do Crew
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Lion Brand Pima Cotton
A modern take on iconic granny squares, this crochet bucket hat will definitely pass the 90’s trend check. This beginner friendly crochet bucket hat pattern is a great stash buster if you want to make an eye-catching accessory.
Blossom Bucket Hat
Designer: Hooked on Homemade Happiness
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: I Love This Cotton
Who would have thought that a simple flower granny square pattern would make such an adorable bucket hat? While this crochet bucket hat is constructed differently, it is an easy beginner-friendly pattern. Change the flower colors to make a different blossom for a completely different look.
Crochet Bobble Granny Square Bucket Hat
Designer: Crochet For You Blog
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Ice Yarn Lorena Worsted
The bobble stitch adds an interesting texture to the bobble drops flower granny square that is used in making this crochet bucket hat. Crochet this hat in neutral colors for a classic look, or use colorful yarn scraps to make a bolder fashion statement. A video tutorial for the pattern is also available for step-by-step instructions.
Lily Flower Power Bucket Hat
Designer: Yarnspirations
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Lily Sugar’n Cream
Let the flowers bloom on this cute crochet hat. Choose your favorite color combinations to make it your own. This easy crochet bucket hat pattern is made with 100 percent cotton for warm-weather comfort.
Garden Bucket Hat
Designer: Rich Textures Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Lion Brand Pima Cotton
The flower motif on this crochet bucket hat makes it the perfect summer accessory. Protect yourself from the sun while working in your garden. Worked with two strands of worsted weight cotton yarn held together, this bucket hat is thick but still breathable and comfy.
Easy Bucket Hat Patterns with Step-by-Step Video Tutorials
Looking for more unique and quirky crochet bucket hat patterns? Here are some step-by-step video tutorials for bucket hats that will surely make heads turn.
Easy Crochet Bucket Hat
Designer: Brunacticality
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Yarn suggestion: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton DK
A simple but oh-so-cute bucket hat that is great for beginners. The embroidered flowers add a light feminine touch to this ruffle-brimmed bucket hat. Make one in pastel colors for the perfect spring hat!
Bucket Hat aka Fisherman’s Hat
Designer: Yarn Wars
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Red Heart Super Saver Stripes
Self-striping yarn gives this bucket hat or fisherman’s hat its burst of color. Of course, you can also use your yarn scraps to create this colorful bucket hat. Super simple and easy to make, this pattern also has a photo tutorial for getting the right size for your crochet bucket hat.
Checkerboard Bucket Hat
Designer: Hooked on Homemade Happiness
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Knit Picks Dishie
Do not be intimidated by this crochet bucket hat. It’s much easier to make than you think! The video tutorial teaches you some techniques you will need to make the hat, such as how to carry your yarn throughout the project. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be experimenting with different color combinations for this easy bucket hat pattern.
Starburst Granny Bucket Crochet Hat
Designer: Day’s Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Lion Brand Basic Stitch
With its eye-catching sunburst motif, this bucket hat will surely make heads turn! The granny stitch plus a ruffled brim gives this hat an added flair. Make a couple of these in different color combinations to sell at spring/summer market fairs.
Patchwork Bucket Hat
Designer: Brunacticality
Yarn weight: (3) DK
Yarn suggestion: Sirdar Hayfield Bonus DK
Inspired by J.W. Anderson’s patchwork cardigan made famous by Harry Styles, this crochet bucket hat may be a little challenging for beginners. You will need to make a couple of small squares with different designs. But don’t worry, this video tutorial will walk you through the process to help you create this stylish bucket hat.
Crochet Frog Bucket Hat
Designer: Shirley Designs
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Loops and Threads Impeccable
Frogging your WIP is something you might not like doing, but this is one frog you will enjoy crocheting. With a detailed video tutorial, you won’t be hearing any “rip-its” while making this cute froggy bucket hat.
Strawberry Bucket Hat
Designer: Meldy Crochet
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Red Heart Pound of Love
This detailed video tutorial is great for beginners who are looking for an adorable and easy bucket hat crochet pattern. To make this hat, you should know basic crochet skills such as making a magic ring, single crochet (sc), slip stitch (sl st) and double crochet (dc). A separate video will show you how to make the stem and leaves at the top.
Crochet Mushroom Bucket Hat
Designer: Pretty Much Paradise
Yarn weight: (4) Worsted
Yarn suggestion: Premier Yarns Premier Anti-Pilling Everyday Worsted
Make this mushroom hat to match your Pinterest-worthy mushroom/cottagecore aesthetic. This adorable mushroom hat includes the mushroom “gills” that will take your crochet bucket hat to the next level.
Are You a Beginner Crocheter Who Needs Help Stitching a Bucket Hat?
Most of these crochet bucket hat patterns are beginner-friendly and pretty easy to make. But if you aren’t confident enough with your crochet skills, making a hat can be a little intimidating.
Mastering fundamental crochet skills will help you become more confident in taking on any project. Learn the basic stitches, make some practice projects, and take amazing photos of your work to post on Facebook or Instagram.
Join us in our Crochet Fundamentals course and be on your way to creating your dream projects with ease!
Check out my other page if you’re looking for more crochet patterns: 35+ Free Crochet Hat Patterns For Adults
