Hat Size Guide

Simple hats are quick, easy knits that don’t always require a pattern, and this table of measurements and yardage estimates will help you knit hats for others with less stress. Everyone is unique, however these charts were designed to give you a rough idea of average circumference for project planning purposes. Use them to help choose a size for gifts when measuring isn’t an option, or use them to help create your first graded hat pattern!

These yardages were estimated using a gauge of 5 sts per inch and a stockinette stitch with worsted weight yarn. The heights and yardages were calculated taking into account a folded brim or a slouchy style hat with a little negative ease; fitted hats will be shorter and may require less yardage. For a snug beanie with a folded brim, 2 inches (5 cm) of negative ease is most common; that means the circumference of the actual hat should be approximately 2 inches (5 cm) smaller than the circumference of your head. Zero or positive ease will use more yardage.

To use this guide to calculate a hat, take the circumference and subtract the desired amount of negative ease. After that, multiply that number by your personal stitches per inch or cm. This gives you the number of stitches to cast on. Knit until the hat is a little shorter than the desired height and then work 6-8 evenly placed decreases approximately every other round as desired to shape the crown. Alternatively, try the Knits for Everybody Hats pattern or the free Benefaction Hat pattern.