This super-bulky knit hat is intentionally designed as an early knitting-in-the-round project and has been used successfully by kids and adult beginners learning to knit. The pattern limits techniques to the knit stitch, uses simple circular construction, and works with thick yarn so stitches are easy to see and the motion stays consistent from start to finish. There is no purling, no stitch pattern changes, and no shaping decisions to make until the final section of the hat.

This article explains how to knit a super-bulky hat, with step-by-step instructions suitable for complete beginners. You will knit in the round using only the knit stitch, then finish the top of the hat to create a warm, wearable beanie that fits most heads, with a baby size included.

On this page: About · Materials · Gauge · Skills used · Instructions · Care · Sharing

About This Super-Bulky Knit Hat

This hat is designed to make knitting in the round feel approachable. Once you join your stitches, you knit every round and watch the hat grow upward. There are no stitch changes and no pattern repeats to memorize.

The super-bulky yarn makes each stitch easy to see and hold, which helps kids understand how knitting in the round works. When finished, the hat is warm, soft, and sturdy enough for everyday winter wear.

Materials

Knitting Needles

• 16-inch (41 cm) long US No. 13 (9 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Yarn

One 106-yard (6-ounce) skein of super-bulky (No. 6) yarn* (shown in Wool-Ease Thick and Quick by Lion Brand Yarn “Bluegrass”), in your choice of color).

• Baby size uses approximately 21.2 yards (1.2 oz.)
• One-Size-Fits-Most uses about 58.3 yards (3.3 ounces)

*Weights estimated with Wool Ease Thick & Quick by Lion Brand Yarn; other yarn weights may vary.

Notions

• Stitch Marker
• Measuring tape
• Darning needle
• Scissors

Gauge

10 stitches x 18 rows = 4 x 4 inches in garter stitch on No. 13 (9.0 mm) needles.
Gauge is typically measured in stockinette stitch, and because this hat is worked in the round using only the knit stitch, the finished fabric is stockinette. However, gauge is measured in garter stich here for consistency with the other kids’ knitting patterns. Exact gauge is not critical for this project.

Abbreviations

k = knit

Skills Used

This super-bulky knit hat is a great first project for knitting in the round because it is simple, repetitive, and easy to follow. To make the super-bulky knit hat, you’ll only need to know how to:

• Cast on
• Work in the round on circular needles
• Knit stitch
• Draw yarn thru the remaining stitches
• Weave in loose ends

This hat is knit in the round using only the knit stitch. The brim curls naturally, so no fancy stitching is required. Repeating the same motion as the hat grows is a great way to build confidence and get comfortable knitting in the round.

Try to keep your stitches snug, but not tight. They should slide easily on the needle so you can insert your needle into each loop without forcing it. This pattern is a simple place to practice finding that balance.

Want to knit along with me? I’ve linked a video lesson on this page that shows the full hat from cast on to finishing. 🧣

Instructions: Baby Size Super-Bulky Knit Hat

(10.5-inch to 16-inch [26.67-cm to 40.64-cm] head circumference)

Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit in the round.

Row 1: Cast on 20 stitches.

Rows 2 – 21: k 20. (20 stitches) [Work should measure 6 inches at this point.]

Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail. With a darning needle, draw yarn tightly through the remaining 20 stitches. Weave in ends.

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Instructions: One-Size-Fits-Most Super-Bulky Knit Hat         

(16-inch to 25-inch [40.64-cm to 63.5-cm] head circumference)

Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit in the round.

Row 1: Cast on 32 stitches.

Rows 2 – 33: k 32. (32 stitches) [Work should measure 11 inches at this point.]

Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail. With a darning needle, draw yarn tightly through the remaining 32 stitches. Weave in ends.

Save or print this pattern

Get the PDF version of this Super-Bulky Hat Knitting Pattern.

Care

If you use the materials listed above, your hat will be machine washable. For best results, hand wash or use a delicate cycle in cold water. Lay flat to dry or tumble dry low.

🛁 Read more Knitwear Care Tips

Copyright, Sharing, and Selling Finished Items

©2024, Liz Chandler of PurlsAndPixels. Revised 2026.

This pattern is for personal use, gifting, and charitable donation of completed items. You may also sell handmade items created using this pattern. Do not copy this pattern and distribute it. If you’d like to share the pattern, refer your friends to my website, purlsandpixels.com so they may obtain a copy.

If you find any errors or have any questions, email purlsandpixels@gmail.com and I will do my best to help.

I’d love to see your finished work! Tag your photos with @PurlsAndPixels on Twitter or Instagram.

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Ribbed Hat

To make this ribbed hat, you will work in a simple knit, purl pattern. This will create a stretchy ribbing, which allows the hat to fit most head sizes from children through adults. Working from the bottom of the hat, upward, you will knit a long tube before adding decreases to close the top of the hat. Folding the brim will not only help it fit most heads properly, but will also add an extra layer of warmth around the ears.

About This Free Ribbed Hat Knitting Pattern

Materials

You will need the following materials, which you can purchase at your local yarn shop or on Amazon.com via the affiliate links below:

Knitting Needles:

Short Circular Needles (optional)

• 16-inch (41 cm) long US No. 5 (3.75 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Double Point Needles (DPNs)

• 7-inch (18 cm) long US No. 5 (3.75 mm) DPNs (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Or Long Circular Needles (optional)

• 36-inch (91 cm) long US No. 5 (3.75 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Yarn:

One 315-yard (6 ounce) skein of worsted weight yarn* (shown in Caron Simply Soft Yarn), in your choice of color.

• one hat uses about one hat uses about 157.5 yards (3 oz.)

*Shown in Caron Simply Soft Yarn in “Pagoda.” Weights estimated with Caron Simply Soft yarn; other yarn weights may vary. Weight does not include gauge swatch. A 4×4 inch gauge swatch with a 2 row by 3 stitch border uses an additional 21 yards (0.4 oz.).

Tools:

A stitch marker, a measuring tape and a darning needle.

Gauge

20 stitches x 28 rows = 4 x 4 inches in stockinette stitch on No. 5 (3.75 mm) needles. (Learn how to check your gauge here.)

Abbreviations

k = knit

p = purl

** = repeat the pattern between the asterisks

ssk = slip, slip, knit

Instructions: One-Size-Fits-Most Ribbed Hat

(Fits most children, teens, and adults or 18-inch to 25-inch head circumference)

Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit in the round. For Double Point Needles, follow DPN instructions written in italics. For circular needles, follow instructions written in bold. On long circular needles, follow the Magic Loop instructions. Or, for this size, you can substitute short (16-inch) circular needles to knit in the round without the Magic Loop; you will need to switch to DPNs or the Magic Loop to complete the decreases at the top of the hat. If desired, use a stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your rows/rounds by placing it between the last and first stitch of each row/round.

[Using No. 5 DPNs or short circular needles] Row 1: Cast on 88 stitches. Divide onto 3 DPNs (30 on 1^st, 28 on 2^nd, and 30 on 3^rd DPN). Or separate stitches on long circular needles for Magic Loop (44 on each side). Or place all cast on stitches onto short circular needles. (88 stitches)

Row 2: Join the round (taking care not to twist stitches) and *k, p* x 44. (88 stitches)

Rows 3 – 75: *k, p* x 44. (88 stitches) {Work should measure 11 inches at this point.}

{Begin decreases.}Row 76: ssk, (*k, p* x 4), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 4), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 4), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 4), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 4), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 4), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 4), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 4), p. (80 stitches)

Row 77: ssk, (*p, k* x 4), ssk, (*k, p* x 4), ssk, (*p, k* x 4), ssk, (*k, p* x 4), ssk, (*p, k* x 4), ssk, (*k, p* x 4), ssk, (*p, k* x 4), ssk, (*k, p* x 4). (72 stitches)

Row 78: ssk, (*k, p* x 3), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 3), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 3), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 3), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 3), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 3), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 3), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 3), p. (64 stitches)

Row 79: ssk, (*p, k* x 3), ssk, (*k, p* x 3), ssk, (*p, k* x 3), ssk, (*k, p* x 3), ssk, (*p, k* x 3), ssk, (*k, p* x 3), ssk, (*p, k* x 3), ssk, (*k, p* x 3). (56 stitches)

[Switch to No. 5 DPNs or long circular needles and the Magic Loop] Row 80: ssk, (*k, p* x 2), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 2), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 2), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 2), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 2), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 2), p, ssk, (*k, p* x 2), k, ssk, (*p, k* x 2), p. (48 stitches)

Row 81: ssk, (*p, k* x 2), ssk, (*k, p* x 2), ssk, (*p, k* x 2), ssk, (*k, p* x 2), ssk, (*p, k* x 2), ssk, (*k, p* x 2), ssk, (*p, k* x 2), ssk, (*k, p* x 2). (40 stitches)

Row 82: *ssk, k, p, k, ssk, p, k, p* x 4. (32 stitches)

Row 83: *ssk, p, k, ssk, k, p* x 4. (24 stitches)

Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail. With darning needle, draw yarn tightly through remaining 24 stitches. Weave in ends. Block if desired.

Print the Free Ribbed Hat Knitting Pattern

Printable Ribbed Hat Pattern PDF by Liz @PurlsAndPixels

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Find More Knitting Patterns

©2022, Liz Chandler of PurlsAndPixels. Revised 2025.

This pattern is for personal use, gifting, and charitable donation of completed items. You may also sell handmade items created using this pattern. Do not copy this pattern and distribute it. If you’d like to share the pattern, refer your friends to my website, purlsandpixels.com so they may obtain a copy.

If you find any errors or have any questions, email purlsandpixels@gmail.com and I will do my best to help.

I’d love to see your finished work! Tag your photos with @PurlsAndPixels on Twitter or Instagram.

Basic Pillow Covers

This pattern will show you how to make simple pillow covers by knitting in the round on circular needles. Using only the knit stitch creates a smooth, stockinette stitch pattern. The top and bottom edges of stockinette that has been knit in the round will naturally curl. When you sew the edges of the pillow together, the curl adds a decorative touch to these basic pillowcase.

You can sew the edges with a simple “running stitch” and a strand of yarn in the same color. Or try using a contrasting yarn color or a fancy ribbon to make your pillows more unique. Once you are finished, you can leave the pillows plain for a minimalist look. Or decorate your pillow cover with embroidery, faux flowers, or applique patches.

About This Free Pillow Cover Knitting Pattern

Knit Along with Me

In this video, I will show you how to make this knit pillow from start to finish. You can follow along using the knitting pattern below.

Basic Pillow Cover Knitting Pattern

Materials

You will need the following materials, which you can purchase at your local yarn shop or on Amazon.com via the affiliate links below:

Knitting Needles:

Extra-Short Circular Needles (for size mini)
12-inch (30 cm) long US No. 8 (5.0 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Short Circular Needles (for size small)
16-inch (41 cm) long US No. 8 (5.0 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Or Long Circular Needles (for sizes medium and large)
36-inch (91 cm) long US No. 8 (5.0 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)

Yarn:
One or two 315-yard (6 ounce) skeins of worsted weight yarn* (shown in Caron Simply Soft Yarn), in your choice of color.

• Mini size uses about 52.5 yards (1 oz)
• Small size uses about 204.75 yards (3.9 oz.)
• Medium size uses about 315 yards (6 oz.)
• Large size uses about 388.5 yards (7.4 oz.)

*Shown in Caron Simply Soft Yarn in “Pagoda,” “Robins Egg,” “Charcoal Heather,” and “Orchid.” Weights estimated with Caron Simply Soft yarn; other yarn weights may vary. Weight does not include gauge swatch. A 4×4 inch gauge swatch with a 2 row by 3 stitch border uses an additional 21 yards (0.4 oz.).

Pillow Insert:

One square pillow-insert in the correct size.

• Mini size requires a 5-inch x 5-inch (12.7 cm) pillow
• Small size requires a 12-inch x 12-inch (30.48 cm) pillow
• Medium size requires a 16-inch x 16-inch (40.64 cm) pillow
• Large size requires an 18-inch x 18-inch (45.72 cm) pillow

Tools:

A stitch marker, a measuring tape and a darning needle.

Gauge

18 stitches x 24 rows = 4 x 4 inches in stockinette stitch on No. 8 (5.0 mm) needles. (Learn how to check your gauge here.)

Abbreviations

k = knit

Instructions: Mini Size Pillow Cover

(Fits 5-inch x 5-inch pillows; measures 6 inches  x 10 inches when laid flat off the pillow)

Use the long-tail cast on method. Knit in the round. For this size, work with extra-short (12-inch) circular needles. If desired, use a stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your rows/rounds by placing it between the last and first stitch of each row/round.

Row 1: Cast on 40 stitches.

Row 2: Join the round (taking care not to twist stitches) and k 40. (40 stitches)

Rows 3 – 46: k 40. (40 stitches) {Work should measure 10 inches at this point.}

Row 47: Bind off loosely in knit stitch pattern. Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail, and pull through. Weave in ends. Block if desired.

Insert a 5-inch by 5-inch pillow into the cover. Thread a strand of yarn about two feet long in the same or a contrasting color onto a darning needle. Count about seven rows up from the bottom of the pillow; use this as a starting point to begin sewing the first end of the pillow closed. Use the holes created by the knitting to line up both sides and a “running stitch” to sew the bottom edge together. Tie off the loose ends. Count about seven rows down from the top of the pillow and sew the top edge closed in the same manner.

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Instructions: Small Size Pillow Cover

(Fits 12-inch x 12-inch pillows; measures 13 inches  x 17 inches when laid flat off the pillow)

Use the long-tail cast on method. Knit in the round. For this size, work with short (16-inch) circular needles. If desired, use a stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your rows/rounds by placing it between the last and first stitch of each row/round.

Row 1: Cast on 86 stitches.

Row 2: Join the round (taking care not to twist stitches) and k 86. (86 stitches)

Rows 3 – 79: k 86. (86 stitches) {Work should measure 17 inches at this point.}

Row 80: Bind off loosely in knit stitch pattern. Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail, and pull through. Weave in ends. Block if desired.

Insert a 12-inch by 12-inch pillow into the cover. Thread a strand of yarn about four feet long in the same or a contrasting color onto a darning needle. Count about seven rows up from the bottom of the pillow; use this as a starting point to begin sewing the first end of the pillow closed. Use the holes created by the knitting to line up both sides and a “running stitch” to sew the bottom edge together. Tie off the loose ends. Count about seven rows down from the top of the pillow and sew the top edge closed in the same manner.

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Instructions: Medium Size Pillow Cover

(Fits 16-inch x 16-inch pillows; measures 17 inches  x 21 inches when laid flat off the pillow)

Use the long-tail cast on method. Knit in the round. For this size, work with long (36-inch) circular needles. If desired, use a stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your rows/rounds by placing it between the last and first stitch of each row/round.

Row 1: Cast on 112 stitches.

Row 2: Join the round (taking care not to twist stitches) and k 112. (112 stitches)

Rows 3 – 97: k 112. (112 stitches) {Work should measure 21 inches at this point.}

Row 98: Bind off loosely in knit stitch pattern. Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail, and pull through. Weave in ends. Block if desired.

Insert a 16-inch by 16-inch pillow into the cover. Thread a strand of yarn about four feet long in the same or a contrasting color onto a darning needle. Count about seven rows up from the bottom of the pillow; use this as a starting point to begin sewing the first end of the pillow closed. Use the holes created by the knitting to line up both sides and a “running stitch” to sew the bottom edge together. Tie off the loose ends. Count about seven rows down from the top of the pillow and sew the top edge closed in the same manner.

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Instructions: Large Size Pillow Cover

(Fits 18-inch x 18-inch pillows; measures 19 inches  x 23 inches when laid flat off the pillow)

Use the long-tail cast on method. Knit in the round. For this size, work with long (36-inch) circular needles. If desired, use a stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your rows/rounds by placing it between the last and first stitch of each row/round.

Row 1: Cast on 126 stitches.

Row 2: Join the round (taking care not to twist stitches) and k 126. (126 stitches)

Rows 3 – 106: k 126. (126 stitches) {Work should measure 23 inches at this point.}

Row 107: Bind off loosely in knit stitch pattern. Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail, and pull through. Weave in ends. Block if desired.

Insert an 18-inch by 18-inch pillow into the cover. Thread a strand of yarn about four feet long in the same or a contrasting color onto a darning needle. Count about seven rows up from the bottom of the pillow; use this as a starting point to begin sewing the first end of the pillow closed. Use the holes created by the knitting to line up both sides and a “running stitch” to sew the bottom edge together. Tie off the loose ends. Count about seven rows down from the top of the pillow and sew the top edge closed in the same manner.

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Print the Free Basic Pillow Cover Pattern

Printable Basic Pillow Cover Knitting Pattern PDF by Liz @PurlsAndPixels

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Find More Knitting Patterns

©2022, Liz Chandler of PurlsAndPixels.

This pattern is for personal use, gifting, and charitable donation of completed items. You may also sell handmade items created using this pattern. Do not copy this pattern and distribute it. If you’d like to share the pattern, refer your friends to my website, purlsandpixels.com so they may obtain a copy.

If you find any errors or have any questions, email purlsandpixels@gmail.com and I will do my best to help.

I’d love to see your finished work! Tag your photos with @PurlsAndPixels on Twitter or Instagram.