Bear Ear Flap Hat Crochet Pattern For Cozy Winter Wear
Finished Size: Approximately 8 inches (20 cm) tall and 8 inches (20 cm) wide
Skill Level: Beginner
Estimated Time: 2-4 hours
Hook Size: 5 mm
Yarn: worsted yarn
Notions: Yarn needle, stitch marker, polyfill
Gauge: Approximately 12 sc x 14 rounds = 2 inches with 5 mm hook
Why This Pattern
Welcome to a cozy new project that works up faster than you might expect. This bear ear flap hat uses a 5 mm hook and worsted weight yarn, two staples that most crocheters already have on hand. The finished piece measures roughly 8 inches tall and 8 inches wide, a comfortable fit for a child or a snug, slouchy feel on an adult. The texture comes from simple stitches stacked in even rounds, creating a dense, warm fabric that holds its shape through chilly mornings.
The pattern is written for beginners, so every step moves at a steady, approachable pace. You will work in continuous spirals, count your stitches clearly, and shape the ear flaps with basic increases and decreases that are easy to spot. The crown closes with a neat little circle, and the ear flaps come together with a straightforward seam. Grab your hook, pick a color that makes you smile, and settle in for a relaxing make.
Yarn, Hooks, and Notions
| Material | Details |
|---|---|
| Yarn | worsted yarn in brown, beige, black, white |
| Hook | 5 mm crochet hook |
| Stuffing | Polyfill or fiberfill |
| Eyes | Safety eyes or embroidery thread |
| Extras | Yarn needle, stitch markers, scissors |
Gauge: Approximately 12 sc x 14 rounds = 2 inches with 5 mm hook. Not critical but aim for tight, even stitches, if stuffing shows through, go down one hook size.
Crochet Stitches in This Pattern
Note: This pattern uses US crochet terms. All rounds are worked in top-down unless stated otherwise. Use a stitch marker in the first stitch of each round.
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| sc | Single crochet |
| inc | Increase (2 sc in same stitch) |
| ch | Chain |
How to Crochet This Pattern
hat crown, brown yarn
Row 1: Ch 28, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across (27)
Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc across (27)
Row 3: Ch 1, turn, sc across (27)
Row 4: Ch 1, turn, sc across (27)
Row 5: Ch 1, turn, sc across (27)
Row 6: Ch 1, turn, sc across (27)
Row 7: Ch 1, turn, sc across (27)
Switch to beige yarn for the ear flap.
ear flap (make 2), beige yarn
Row 1: Ch 11, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across (10)
Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 3: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 4: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 5: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Switch to black yarn for the ear flap edge.
ear flap edge (make 2), black yarn
Row 1: Ch 11, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across (10)
Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 3: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 4: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 5: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Fasten off, leaving long tail for sewing
Switch to black and white striped yarn for the tie.
tie (make 2), black and white striped yarn
Rnd 1: 6 sc in magic ring (6)
Rnd 2: inc around (12)
Rnd 3: (1 sc, inc) x 6 (18)
Rnd 4: sc around (18)
Rnd 5: sc around (18)
Rnd 6: sc around (18)
Rnd 7: sc around (18)
Rnd 8: sc around (18)
Rnd 9: sc around (18)
Rnd 10: sc around (18)
Switch to black yarn for the button.
button (make 2), black yarn
Rnd 1: 6 sc in magic ring (6)
Fasten off (6 sts)
Final Stitch Counts
- hat crown: 27 stitches at widest point
- ear flap (x 2): 10 stitches at widest point
- ear flap edge (x 2): 10 stitches at widest point
- tie (x 2): 18 stitches at widest point
- button (x 2): 6 stitches at widest point
Assembling Your Amigurumi
1. Stuff hat crown, tie firmly with polyfill for stability. Shape as you go, pressing and molding to match the reference photo. Add extra stuffing to the base for a sturdy foundation.
2. Sew ear flap to the sides of the head. Position on the upper sides of the head, angled outward. Pin in place before sewing to check alignment from all angles. Use the long tail left for sewing and whipstitch around the base.
3. Sew ear flap edge to the sides of the head. Position on the upper sides of the head, angled outward. Pin in place before sewing to check alignment from all angles. Use the long tail left for sewing and whipstitch around the base.
4. Check all seams are secure. Gently tug each attached piece to test. Trim any loose yarn ends with sharp scissors. Weave in all remaining tails with a needle, passing through at least 3 stitches in each direction to prevent unraveling. Give the finished piece a gentle squeeze to distribute stuffing evenly and shape the final form.
Maker Tips and Keeping It Clean
Here are some practical tips to help you crochet your bear ear flap hat with a 5 mm hook.
- Use stitch markers to mark the first stitch of each round so you can easily find your starting point and keep your rounds even.
- Check your gauge before starting the hat to make sure your stitches are not too tight or too loose, which helps the hat fit well.
- When you reach the ear flap decreases, work two single crochets together evenly to shape the flap nicely without leaving gaps.
- If you add a lining or small pom-poms, use a yarn needle to weave the ends in securely so they do not come loose with wear.
- Keep your tension relaxed while crocheting the ear flaps so the fabric stays soft and comfortable around the ears.
- Count your stitches at the end of each round to make sure you have not accidentally added or missed a stitch.
Follow these care instructions to keep your hat looking its best.
- Hand wash the hat in cool water with a mild detergent to protect the yarn fibers.
- Air dry the hat flat on a clean towel to help it hold its shape.
- Avoid direct sunlight while drying to prevent the colors from fading over time.
- Spot clean small stains with a damp cloth instead of washing the whole hat each time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What yarn should I use for this hat?
Use worsted weight yarn. It works up nicely with a 5 mm hook and gives the hat a cozy, warm feel.
How long will it take to finish the hat?
The project takes about 2-4 hours, depending on your crochet speed. Most beginners finish in one sitting.
Is this pattern beginner-friendly?
Yes! The pattern is rated Beginner. It uses basic stitches like single crochet and simple shaping, with no tricky techniques.
Can I make the hat bigger or smaller?
Yes. To resize, just add or remove rounds before the ear flap section. Each round changes the circumference slightly, so adjust to fit.
Can I sell the finished hats I make?
Yes, you may sell finished items made from this pattern. Please credit the designer when listing your products online.
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