Ribbed for Him and Her – Free Crochet Messy Bun Hat Pattern

Discover our exclusive Free Crochet Hat Pattern that can be a regular hat or a messy bun crochet hat. It’s complimentary for our crafty readers and perfectly designed for everyone! Our ‘Ribbed for Everyone’ free crochet messy bun hat pattern offers a delightful challenge! It’s especially for those who enjoy a project with a little extra intricacy. While it may require more effort than your standard double crochet messy bun hat, the end result is incredibly rewarding. If you like this pattern you will love the Blossom Hat or the All About It Hat patterns.

Mannequin head displaying a crochet hat with a pronounced ribbed texture. The hat is a vibrant shade of blue, suggesting a cozy, handcrafted feel. Attached to the back of the mannequin head is a brown, curly wig, which cascades down, giving the impression that someone is wearing the hat. The background is a room with warm, inviting tones, and a dresser with a lamp on it. Text overlaid on the image reads "Ribbed for Him and Her" in a playful, cursive font, indicating that the hat's design is unisex. Additional text at the bottom states "CROCHET HAT," clearly labeling the item. A small, whimsical bird-like logo appears at the bottom right corner, possibly representing the brand or creator of the hat.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.

One of the most common inquiries we receive is about the construction of the hat’s bill. “How do you achieve that authentic bill shape?”

The secret lies in our signature bill design, which requires no additional stiffening material! The bill (or some call it a brim) is cleverly crafted to stand out as it should, providing that quintessential cap look.

Embark on this crochet adventure and create an adorable hat with just a single skein of worsted-weight yarn. Not only is this crochet beanie hat charming and economical to craft, but it also makes a perfect gift for someone special.

It’s a fabulous item to stock up on for craft fairs, or to add a homemade touch to your wardrobe. Join us as we guide you through the process of making this fantastic crochet hat!

Favorite This Pattern on Ravelry - Marly Bird

Add to favorites and Queue the Free Crochet Messy Bun Hat Pattern, “Ribbed for Him and Her” pattern on Ravlery

Signature Crochet Bill by Marly Bird – No Stuffing Required!

Marly Bird’s signature crochet bill is a distinctive feature that sets her hat designs apart. The bill offers a structured look and feel without stiffening agents like plastic canvas, polyfill, or interfacing. This unique construction has become a hallmark of Marly Bird’s hat patterns, offering a contemporary twist on classic crochet hats. The technique used to create this bill allows for durability and stability, ensuring that the hat maintains its shape. Not only is it functional, providing shade and style, but it also adds a touch of sophistication.

What’s truly special about this crochet bill is its versatility. Marly Bird has skillfully incorporated this design into various hat patterns, catering to a diverse audience with different style preferences. Need a sporty cap to wear on your morning jog? Or a stylish tam hat to complement your fall wardrobe? There’s a Marly Bird pattern that features this iconic bill. The application of this design transcends gender norms, making it perfect for ‘Him & Her’ hat patterns and beyond.

Blossom Hat with slip stitch crochet bill that stands away from the forehead - free pattern by Marly Bird
Smiling woman wearing a blue crochet newsboy hat and denim jacket, with a greenery background- free crochet newsboy hat pattern Marly Bird
A woman is smiling at the camera, wearing a bright red ribbed crochet hat that fits snugly on her head. She has short brown hair, glasses, and red lipstick that matches her hat. She is also wearing a white shirt under a blue denim jacket, and a silver necklace with a heart-shaped pendant. The background is outdoors with blurred autumnal trees and a brick structure, giving the image a warm, seasonal feel. The woman appears to be in a happy, cheerful mood. - marly bird valentina crochet hat with bill

Marly Bird offers a selection of patterns with the crochet bill.

Each pattern is meticulously crafted. Complete with step-by-step instructions, we guide you through creating your version of this stylish accent.

Explore other hat designs featuring the crochet bill here, where you’ll find various options to suit any occasion. Whether experienced or a newbie, Marly Bird’s patterns are designed to inspire and challenge you to create beautiful, functional headwear.

The Versatility of Messy Bun Crochet Hat Patterns

The messy bun hat has surged in popularity among crochet and knit enthusiasts for its practicality and style. Unlike traditional closed-top hats, the messy bun hat offers a clever solution for those with longer hair. This allows you to keep your hair up while keeping your ears and head warm. This design feature allows the wearer to sport a messy bun or ponytail without compromising comfort or fashion.

When it comes to crochet patterns, a messy bun hat presents several advantages. It’s a time-saver! There’s no need to crochet a complete crown, which also means less yarn usage. That’s a plus for those looking to maximize their crafting supplies. The open-top design also makes for a more breathable hat. It’s perfect for transitional weather or those who find full hats too warm.

For creators and consumers alike, the messy bun hat is a game-changer. It’s a trendy accessory that caters to a busy lifestyle, allowing for an effortless, functional, and chic look. Incorporating this design into your crochet repertoire can appeal to a younger demographic or those seeking more casual hat options.

Suppose you make items for craft fairs by providing both messy bun hats and traditional finished hats. In that case, you cater to a wider range of preferences in a market. This increases the value of your content and the satisfaction of your customers. Whether they’re looking for a “quick crochet messy bun pattern” or a “classic hat crochet pattern,” your booth becomes a one-stop resource for all things crochet, driving engagement and repeat visits.

The Uniqueness of the Ribbed for Him & Her Crochet Hat Pattern

The messy bun hat offers an exceptional combination of style and convenience. But let’s shift our focus to a pattern that provides full coverage with a classic touch—the Ribbed for Him & Her Crochet Hat.

This free pattern brings a timeless aesthetic to your crochet collection, blending the traditional with the contemporary. It’s designed to suit all, regardless of gender or style preference, making it a versatile addition to your crafting repertoire.

As we move forward, it’s time to grab your crochet hooks and favorite yarn to embark on this creative journey. We’ll dive into the Ribbed for Him & Her Crochet Hat pattern, featuring the distinctive ribbed texture that Marly Bird’s designs are renowned for.

This pattern provides warmth and comfort and offers a fashionable statement piece that can be customized to your liking. Whether you opt for a classic hue or a bold, vibrant color, this hat will become a cherished item in any wardrobe.

Now, without further ado, let’s get started on the Ribbed for Him & Her Crochet Hat. Follow along as we provide step-by-step instructions, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable crafting experience. This pattern is perfect for those looking to create a handmade gift, stock up on craft fair inventory, or simply add a personal touch to their winter accessories. Ready your materials, set up a cozy crafting spot, and let’s create something beautiful together.

The image shows Marly Bird sporting the 'Ribbed for Him and Her' free crochet messy bun hat with a closed top. The hat is a teal color with a distinct ribbed pattern, providing texture and depth. Marly is smiling at the camera, giving off a friendly and approachable vibe. She wears glasses and has her hair down. She complements her look with a pair of hoop earrings and a chunky silver necklace featuring an ornate heart-shaped pendant. Marly is dressed in a V-neck top with a dark cardigan, and the background is a neutral-colored wall. Her expression and attire suggest a casual, comfortable setting.

Ribbed for Him and Her Free Crochet Messy Bun Hat Pattern Details

It’s a perfect blend of fashion and functionality. Marly Bird’s stylish & versatile Ribbed for Him and Her Crochet Hat with Bill. Handcrafted using double crochet rib stitches, this hat offers comfort and durability while providing a classic look.

*this pattern was updated 11-16-23

Measurements

Finished Measurements

Circumference: 20” around at base of hat unstretched.

Gauge

16 sts by 12 rounds in body stitch pattern = 4” [10 cm] by 4” [10 cm]; use any size hook to obtain the gauge.

Materials

Yarn

[4 Medium] RED HEART® With Love™, Art. E400, available in solid color 7 oz (198 g), 370 yd (338 m); multicolor 5 oz (141 g), 230 yd (211 m), skeins

Note: this yarn is a fairly thick worsted weight yarn. If you choose to substitute with a lighter worsted weight yarn the hat will not look quite the same.

Crochet Hook

Size Crochet Hook: 5 mm [US H-8]

Notions

Abbreviations

CH – CHAIN (S)

BLO – back loop only

bpdc – back post double crochet

DC – Double Crochet

Fdc – Foundation Double Crochet

FLO – Front loop only

fpdc – front post double crochet

PM – PLACE MARKER

RS – Right Side

Sl st – Slip Stitch

St(s) – Stitch(es)

WS – Wrong Side

Special Stitches

⭐️ Back Loop Only (BLO): This is the furthest loop to you of the top 2 loops of the stitch indicated, regardless if you are on the RS or WS.

⭐️ Back Post Double Crochet (BPDC): Yarn over, insert hook from back to front to back around the post of the stitch indicated, yarn over and pull up a loop, [yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook] twice.

⭐️ Foundation Double Crochet (FDC):

First fdc: Ch 3, yarn over hook, insert hook into 3nd ch from hook, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and draw through 1 loop on hook (forming a chain), [yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook] twice (forming the double crochet)

Next fdc: Yarn over hook, insert hook into base of previous stitch (in the “chain” space), yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and draw through 1 loop on hook (forming a chain), [yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook] twice (forming the next double crochet).

Repeat directions for desired amount of stitches.

⭐️ Front Loop Only (FLO): This is the closest loop to you of the top 2 loops of the stitch indicated, regardless if you are on the RS or WS.

⭐️ Front Post Double Crochet (FPDC): Yarn over, insert hook from front to back to front around the post of the stitch indicated, yarn over and pull up a loop, [yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook] twice.

⭐️ Front Post Double Crochet 2 Together(FPDC2tog): *Yarn over hook, insert hook from front to back to front around the post of the stitch indicated, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook; repeat from * in next st indicated, yarn over and draw through all 3 loops on hook.

image with text "learn on YouTube with Marly Bird", also includes the logo for YouTube and Marly Bird

Crochet Video Tutorials

Click the name below to go to the YouTube video for that stitch, tip or demonstration of a crochet technique.

Chains

Back Loop Only

Front Loop Only

Double Crochet

Back Post Double Crochet

Front Post Double Crochet

Burying or Weaving in Ends

Adding a Pom Pom

Slip Stitch Ribbing

Bill of Hat Tutorial

Notes

  • Use markers in the first slip stitch of the brim on each row to help keep count.
  • CAUTION: when working the slip stitches on the brim, maintain consistent tension, or the stitches will become too tight as the brim gets longer.
  • The slip stitches should NOT be any more snug than the size of the hook.
  • Brim of hat is worked flat then seamed together.
  • Body of hat is worked into the long side edge of the brim as instructed.
  • Body of hat is worked in continuous rounds. Use a marker to identify the first stitch of each round.
  • Body st gauge near the brim will be a little more snug than it is in the body of the hat. The gauge given is in the body of hat.
  • Stitches are worked in back loop only unless otherwise stated in the brim of the hat.
  • Stitches are worked through both loops unless otherwise stated in the body of the hat.
Promotional graphic for a crochet pattern. On the left side, there is a photo of a mannequin head sporting a dark blue, ribbed crochet hat with a brim. The hat has a textured appearance, indicative of the ribbed crochet technique. On the right side, against a white background, the words "Ribbed For Him & Her Crochet Hat" are printed in a combination of red and black fonts of varying sizes, with "Ribbed For" in red uppercase letters and "Him & Her" in larger red uppercase letters. Below, "Crochet Hat" is written in a black brush script. The logo "Marly Bird™" is placed at the bottom, suggesting the designer or brand behind the pattern. In the lower-left corner of the left side, a red banner with white text reads "FREE PATTERN," indicating that the pattern is available at no cost. The overall layout is designed for sharing on social media, particularly Facebook, as suggested by the image's file name.

Ribbed for Him & Her Hat : Free Crochet Messy Bun Hat Pattern


Bill of hat

Row 1: Ch 6, sl st in the BLO of 2nd ch from hook and in each ch to end, ch 1, turn –5 sl sts.

Place a marker in the middle stitch

Row 2 (increase row): Sl st in BLO of each st until 1 st BEFORE the marker, sl st in BLO of next st TWICE (this is the stitch before marker), sl st in BLO of marked st, move marker to st just made, sl st in BLO of next st TWICE, sl st in BLO of each st to end, ch 1, turn–2 sts increased.

Row 3: Sl st in BLO of each st to marked st, sl st in BLO of marked st, move marker to st just made, sl st in BLO of each st to end, ch 1, turn.

Repeat Rows 2 and 3 until there are 21 sts total.

Use a second marker, place it at the end of the last row 2 you completed. This will help you know where you need to measure from for the next part.

Work Row 3 only until the piece measures 5” [12.5 cm] from the 2nd marker then remove the 2nd marker.

Row 1 (decrease): Sl st in BLO of each st until 1 st BEFORE the center marker, skip st, sl st in BLO of marked st, move marker to st just made, skip next st, sl st in BLO of each st to end, ch 1, turn–2 sts decreased.

Row 2: Sl st in BLO of each st to marked st, sl st in BLO of marked st, move marker to st just made, sl st in BLO of each st to end, ch 1, turn.

Repeat Rows 1 and 2 until 5 stitches remain ending after a Row 2. Do NOT fasten off.

Marly Bird signature crochet bill laid flat before seaming. Image shows a stitch marker to signify the right side, and a crochet hook to show the last row of the bill. Marly Bird Logo is in the bottom left corner of image

1st Finishing

Fold piece in half, working only into edge of every other row, sl st to close piece. You need an even number at the end of the row. I had a total of 34 total stitches.

Optional: I’ve discovered doing an additional row of slip stitches on top of the row just completed for the join will help the bill stand out from the forehead even more. After completing the hat: add another row of slip stitches to the inside of the hat along these slip stitches you just made.

Marly Bird Signature Crochet Bill finishing demonstrated

Video Tutorial for Bill / Brim of hat

Body of Hat

GROW

To Unlock Exclusive Subscriber Content click the Box below and join for free by simply adding your email and creating a password! If you are having troubles, clear your cache or reset your password or login to the Grow Publisher Portal.

I’m thrilled to share this amazing pattern with you, many patterns on my blog are absolutely free! I kindly request that you don’t copy and paste or distribute this pattern. Prefer an ad-free experience? Buy a digital PDF pattern for a small fee from one of my online stores for a seamless crafting journey. 

I appreciate your support and readership. You are the reason I can keep doing what I love and sharing it with others. So, thank you from the bottom of my yarn-loving heart! Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links at no cost to you.

Rnd 1: Continue working from the slip stitches used to fold bill, insert hook into the last slip stitch made on bill and begin to work 46 foundation double crochet, then, working into the first slip stitch of the bill (on the opposite side of where you began this round), join to work in the round by doing a double crochet through front loop only (TFLO) of the sl sts that closed the brim to the end, join with a slip stitch into the first foundation double crochet. Do Not Turn—You need a total of 80 dc at the end of this round. If the number of slip stitches after the 1st finishing is not 34 then you should alter the number of foundation double crochet you do to get to the 80 total dc needed.

Yes, at the point where the foundation double crochet joins the slip stitches on brim it will be separated; that will be seamed closed later.

Rnd 2: Ch 2 (does not count as a stitch), front post double crochet (FPDC) into the first stitch (this is the stitch you just joined to with a slip stitch), back post double crochet (BPDC) into the next stitch, * FPDC, BPDC; repeat from * to end of the rnd, join with a slip stitch into the first FPDC. Do Not Turn.

Repeat rnd 2 until body of hat measures 6″ from rnd 1 of the body of hat.


Initial round of the 'Ribbed for Him and Her' crochet hat in progress. A teal-colored yarn is used to create a ribbed pattern, showcasing the textured beginnings of the hat. The crochet work is attached to a blue crochet hook, indicating that the piece is currently being worked on. The stitches are even and tightly formed, suggesting the start of a well-crafted hat. The background is a plain white surface, putting the focus entirely on the crochet work. This image likely serves as a visual aid for crocheters following the pattern, illustrating the expected appearance after completing the first round of the hat.

Crown of Hat

Rnd 1: Ch 2 (does not count as a stitch), * FPDC into the first stitch (this is the stitch you just joined to with a slip stitch), skip the next BPDC; repeat from * to end of the rnd, join with a slip stitch into the first FPDC. Do Not Turn. –40 FPDC remaining.

Rnd 2: Ch 2 (does not count as a stitch), FPDC into the first stitch, and in each stitch around. Do Not Turn.

Rnd 3: Ch 2 (does not count as a stitch), FPDC2tog over two stitches; rep from * to end of rnd, join with a slip stitch into the first FPDC2tog. Do Not Join. –20 FPDC2Tog

Rnd 4: Ch 2 (does not count as a stitch), FPDC into the first stitch, and in each stitch around. Do Not Turn.

—For Free Crochet Messy Bun Hat Pattern — Messy Bun Only– Fasten off leaving long tail. Continue to the 2nd Finishing. 

Rnd 5: Ch 2 (does not count as a stitch), FPDC2tog over two stitches; rep from * to end of rnd, join with a slip stitch into the first FPDC2tog. Fasten off leaving long tail. –10 FPDC2Tog.

2nd Finishing

Closed Hat: Thread the tail of the yarn in a Bent Tip Tapestry Needle. Thread the needle through the FRONT LOOP ONLY of all stitches on the last row completed, pull together like a drawstring. Push needle to the inside of hat weave the tail in on the wrong side of the crochet hat to secure.

Messy Bun Hat: Thread the tail of the yarn in a Bent Tip Tapestry Needle and weave the tail in on the wrong side of the crochet hat to secure.

Use another length of yarn to seam the edges of the brim to the base of the hat. Weave in any remaining tails on wrong side of crochet hat.

There you have it. A fun and Free Crochet Messy Bun Hat Pattern that can also be made into a basic hat! Perfect for both men and women. 

Here are a couple more graphics for you to use either on your Ravelry Project Page, Facebook Post, Pinterest Link or your blog. Please feel free to use these images but please link back to this page 🙂 Thank you for your support, and I hope you will share your finished projects with me on my Facebook page.

Free Crochet Patterns by Marly Bird

Check out other FREE CROCHET PATTERNS here on MarlyBird.com!

Written pattern copyright Marly Bird Designs, a division of Yarnsports LLC (c) 2016.

Please do not reprint or repost this pattern, but please do link to this page to share this pattern with others.

Want more FREE Hat Patterns by Marly Bird?

It is no secret that Marly loves making hats. Here are some of you popular free hat patterns.

Promotional photo for a crochet newsboy hat pattern. It features a woman with a beaming smile, pointing to the text above her which reads "ALL ABOUT IT Crochet Newsboy Hat." She is wearing the completed newsboy hat in a heathered blue yarn with a ribbed texture and a prominent brim. The woman is also dressed in a denim jacket, complementing the casual, fun style of the hat. Her joyful expression suggests excitement about the crochet project. Additional text at the bottom of the image states "Free Crochet Hat Pattern - MarlyBird.com," indicating that the pattern is available for free and can be accessed at Marly Bird's website. The background is a natural outdoor setting with greenery, contributing to the lively and fresh appeal of the image.

    Leave a Comment

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  1. Kimberly says:

    THIS IS FANTASTIC.
    I just about choked to death from laughing at the title. This is now my favorite pattern EVER. xD
    You, Marly Bird, are simply awesome. 🙂

  2. Connie says:

    Thank you so much for the free pattern Ribbed for Him and Her Hat Pattern. I am a disabled veteran so my funds are limited. Thank you for providing me a way to keep me crocheting. I enjoy making things for those at the VA hospital. I truly appreciate your kindness. Wishing you much success and a blessed Christmas.

  3. Sam Carroll says:

    When will you do a video tutorial on this beautiful hat? I learn better from your videos than I do reading a pattern. But I really appreciate you posting the pattern. You are such a great teacher. Thanks for all your videos and patterns. [email protected]

  4. Sherry says:

    Hi Marly ~ in the beginning of your video for the brim of the “Ribbed for Him & Her” you show the pink hat. Do you have a pattern for that one? I’ve done some searching, but have not found it. That hat just looks more feminine and pretty. I’d love to make that one. Thank you . . .

  5. Lois Piller says:

    Marley, thank you so much for the fantastic video of how to crochet a brim! Looking forward to more of your videos!

  6. Lisa says:

    I am SOOOOO excited!!!! This is/was my FIRST-ever crochet project. I just started trying to teach myself to crochet within the last 3 weeks or so (as a new and creative way to avoid my graduate school workload >_<)… I made repeated attempts at different patterns using the yarn I bought, getting only so far before getting frustrated and undoing the whole thing. I probably did and undid this pattern 8 times too. But I kept at it (I just loved the brim!), continued googling, looking at stitch diagrams, and watching YouTube videos until I understood what I was doing, felt I was getting it right, and liked the look of my work.

    I couldn't be more pleased! I wish I could upload a photo for you. (I can't share on Facebook, since, in an act of self-care, I deactivated a few months ago.) Is my hat perfect? Nope, of course not. But it's mine; I made it. Woot! I had to make some modifications since I used a bulky yarn, and I undoubtedly messed up a few stitches. But isn't there a spiritual thing about intentional imperfections? haha.

    This hat is EXACTLY what I need/ed it to be! THANK YOU, Marly, for helping me become a crocheter! Your tutorials, patterns, explanations, descriptions, and photos are/have been invaluable! Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!!!

  7. Nikki says:

    Look up foundation double crochet. There are a few lessons on how to do it. I made several of these hats for Christmas and was confused in how to start after the brim. I did chain 46 then went back and did double crochet into the foundation. I them attached it to the opposite side and then continued the pattern from there. This hat is beautiful. However when I came back to do another hat a month later I found myself just as confused. Then I looked up foundation double crochet! Never heard of it until this pattern. It makes so much more sense now!! Good luck everyone on this awesome well loved pattern. Thank you Madly for the pattern!!!

  8. Sarah Bonvillian says:

    I made one similar a long time ago. And I forgot to write it down.
    Love your patterns thank you for the free ones and your hard work and dedication.

Marly Bird

The One and Only, Marly

Marly is a knitwear and crochet designer (and yarn addict) that is here to help you learn how to knit and crochet in a way that's fun and approachable.

Meet Marly

Knitting & Crochet Patterns for Every Mood
A cartoon image of a joyful chicken, sitting comfortably in a green armchair, knitting happily with blue yarn, surrounded by pink and white flowers, looking for DIY project ideas. -Marly Bird

Netflix & Chill

Simple projects for when you want to relax and zone out

A colorful illustration of a white rabbit with a unicorn horn, nestled among multi-colored leaves arranged like a fan behind it, projects every mood of peacefulness and whimsy. -Marly Bird

Social Butterfly

Frustration-free projects that you can easily work on in public areas

A whimsical illustration of a white chicken adorned with pink flowers and light pink butterflies, featuring flowing tail feathers and a playful pose, all set against a simple white background, perfect for mood-based projects. -Marly Bird

Smooth Jazz

Projects that require a bit more intense focus (but music is nice!)

mood-shh-be-quiet

Shhh Be Quiet!

Advanced projects requiring deep focus (but a big payoff, too!)