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58 Free Bunny Rabbit Patterns to Crochet and Knit

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March is here! With springtime comes bunny rabbits poking their quivering noses out of their nests to hop around. Celebrate spring with these 58 Yarnspirations patterns featuring bunny rabbits in all styles. Decorate for spring or for Easter, or just use them for a nursery theme.

Three fluffy baby bunnies sit in a metal bucket. Overlaid text reads: "58 Free Bunny Rabbit Patterns, Knit and Crochet." A small crochet bunny graphic and the website marlybird.com appear at the bottom. -Marly Bird

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🐰 Why Crochet or Knit Bunny Patterns? 🐰

Bunny patterns are a favorite for crocheters and knitters alike because they're irresistibly cute, versatile, and perfect for gifting! Whether you're looking to craft a cuddly companion for a little one or some festive decor for your home, bunnies are a go-to choice. Plus, with so many free bunny patterns available, you can easily find one that matches your skill level and yarn stash!

Marly Bird showcasing her adorable handmade crochet bunny rabbit stuffed animal, with a link to a free pattern available on her website.

🐇 Perfect for Easter and Spring Gifts 🌸

Nothing says spring quite like a sweet bunny! Crocheted or knitted bunnies make wonderful gifts for Easter baskets, spring baby showers, or just because. Pair them with a few chocolate eggs or a handmade blanket, and you've got a gift that’s both thoughtful and adorable.

A crocheted basket shaped like a gray bunny with floppy ears and pink nose holds colorful eggs and green grass. It sits on a wooden surface in front of books and a decorative mug, beneath a white ornate mirror. "Briana K Designs" is on the image. -Marly Bird

🍼 Adorable Baby Shower Gifts and Nursery Decor

Handmade bunnies are a charming addition to any nursery. Choose soft pastels for a classic look or vibrant hues for a more modern twist. With the right yarn, these bunnies can double as snuggly toys and delightful decor.

Look at this super cute bunny snuggly amigurumi!

🌟 Beginner-Friendly Bunny Patterns to Try

If you're new to crocheting or knitting, bunnies are a manageable and satisfying project. Look for patterns with simple stitches, minimal shaping, and clear instructions to build your confidence and skills!

🧶 Choosing the Right Yarn for Bunny Patterns 🧶

The yarn you choose can make all the difference in how soft and snuggly your bunny turns out. Here are some tips for picking the perfect yarn for your next bunny project.

🐑 Best Yarn Types for Soft and Cuddly Bunnies

Opt for yarns like cotton blends, brushed acrylic, or plush acrylic for maximum softness. These options are not only gentle on the skin but also hold up well to cuddles and play.

🛠 Essential Tools for Knitting and Crocheting Bunnies 🛠

Having the right tools makes crafting bunnies easier and more enjoyable. Here are a few must-haves for your bunny-making toolkit.

🧵 Must-Have Crochet Hooks and Knitting Needles

For most bunny patterns, you’ll want to use hooks or needles that match the yarn weight you’ve selected. Look for patterns that specify the recommended size, or experiment to get the perfect gauge.

👀 Using Safety Eyes and Embellishments Safely

Safety eyes are adorable, but if you're making a bunny for a young child, consider embroidering the eyes instead. Always double-check that embellishments are securely attached.

Safety Eye Pliers

⏱ Time-Saving Tools for Amigurumi Bunnies

From stitch markers to stuffing tools, a few handy extras can make your bunny-crafting process smoother and more fun.

Amigurumi Sticks

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Bunnies to Play With

Toy rabbits have been a staple of childhood for generations, from The Velveteen Rabbit to today. These rabbit toys come in all shapes and sizes: some are meant to be dressed up, while others are suited for cuddling with during naptime.

Beatrice and Basil Free Crochet Pattern
One Skein Bunny Free Crochet Pattern

Bunny Hats and Outfits

Adding bunny ears to a hat instantly makes it cuter. Make a matching set with a pair of booties for a picture-perfect look!

Knit Baby Jacket Set Free Knitting Pattern
Crochet Velveteen Rabbit Hat Free Crochet Pattern

Bunny Pillows, Garlands, and Other Decorations

These bunny items are perfect for nurseries or for seasonal decor! Floor pillows are great for preschoolers' imaginative play, while garlands and wreaths look great in your dining room and front door.

Funny Bunny Faces Free Craft Pattern
Colorful bunny garland in pastel shades, featuring crocheted bunnies with pom-pom tails on a white background.

More Springtime Patterns

❤️ Your BiCrafty Bestie,
Marly Bird

A cartoon avatar of a person with glasses and a brown bun smiles warmly. Their green shirt and black jacket add a stylish touch, while colorful hearts surround them like loving temperature blankets, stitching together an aura of love and positivity. -Marly Bird

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best yarn for crocheting stuffed bunnies?

For amigurumi-style bunnies, you want a smooth, plied yarn that shows your stitches clearly… cotton or acrylic in worsted or DK weight works great. Avoid fuzzy or textured yarns because they hide the stitch definition and make it harder to see where to insert your hook. For baby-safe bunnies, go with a machine-washable acrylic or cotton so parents can toss it in the wash without worrying.

Are bunny patterns good for beginner crocheters?

So many of them are! Simple bunny amigurumi patterns use basic stitches like single crochet worked in the round… and once you get the hang of increasing and decreasing to shape the body, you're golden. Start with a bunny that's made from simple shapes (a round body, round head, tube-shaped ears) and work your way up to more detailed designs. The simpler patterns in this roundup are totally doable for an advanced beginner.

Can I use these bunny patterns for Easter basket gifts?

Absolutely… that's one of the most popular reasons people make them! A handmade crocheted or knitted bunny tucked into an Easter basket with some chocolate eggs is just the sweetest gift. You could also pair a bunny with a handmade baby blanket for a spring baby shower. Start early though because amigurumi pieces have a lot of small parts to assemble and you don't want to be sewing on ears at midnight before Easter!

How do I make my crocheted bunny's eyes safe for babies?

Great question… safety first! For babies and toddlers, skip the plastic safety eyes and embroider the eyes instead using yarn or embroidery floss. Safety eyes can technically be pulled out by a determined little one, even with the washers. Embroidered eyes are completely secure and honestly they give your bunny a really sweet, handmade look. For older kids and adults, safety eyes are fine and they do add a cute sparkle.

Do these patterns work for both knitting and crochet?

Yes! This collection includes patterns for both crafts. You'll find crocheted amigurumi bunnies, knitted stuffed toys, bunny-themed blankets and dishcloths in both knit and crochet, and even some bunny-inspired wearables. So no matter which craft you love (or if you love both… hey BiCrafty Bestie!), there's something in here for you.

Free Crochet Crossbody Bag Pattern – Ramble and Rue Belt Bag

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Looking for the perfect hands-free, stylish, and practical crochet project? The Ramble and Rue Crochet Bag is your new favorite accessory! This boho style bag (also called a crossbody bag, bum bag, fanny pack, or belt bag) combines vintage granny square charm with modern function. With a sturdy zipper, a fabric lining, and a detachable strap, it’s as functional as it is fun to make.

And yes—this is a free crochet crossbody bag pattern, available right here on the blog. If you’d like a printable version, you can also grab the ad-free PDF in my shops.

Two crocheted crossbody bum bags with colorful granny square designs rest on a round woven tray, surrounded by green vines and wooden beads. Text below reads “Ramble & Rue Crossbody Bum Bag Pattern.”. -Marly Bird

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Why You’ll Love the Ramble and Rue Crochet Bag

The best crochet projects are the ones you’ll actually use every day, and this one checks all the boxes:

  • Hands-Free Convenience – Wear it crossbody, around your waist, or even slung over the shoulder.
  • Stash-Busting Friendly – Perfect for mixing and matching yarn colors from your collection.
  • Beginner Friendly with a Twist – Uses classic granny squares but adds shaping, joining, and bag construction for a fun challenge.
  • Practical Details – The lining keeps your essentials secure, while the zipper ensures nothing slips out.

💡 Pro tip: This bag makes a fantastic handmade gift. Just pick your recipient’s favorite colors and customize the strap length to fit their style.

Crochet Bag Terminology: Crossbody, Bum Bag, Fanny Pack, or Belt Bag?

If you’re searching online, you’ll find a lot of different names for this style of bag. Here’s the quick breakdown:

  • Fanny Pack – Common in the U.S., typically worn around the waist.
  • Bum Bag – Popular in the U.K., essentially the same as a fanny pack.
  • Belt Bag – Fashion-forward term, often referring to sleeker designs.
  • Crossbody Bag – The most versatile, worn across the chest or back.

The Ramble and Rue Crochet Bag works beautifully in all these styles. Thanks to the adjustable strap, you can wear it however you like.

A crocheted crossbody bum bag with a granny square design in brown, purple, pink, and green yarn, displayed with its woven strap and wooden bead accent on a light surface. Text: "Ramble & Rue Crossbody Bum Bag Pattern. -Marly Bird

Supplies You’ll Need for Crossbody Bag

Yarn

Choose a worsted weight yarn for a sturdy, structured bag. Cotton yarns are ideal since they hold shape well, but acrylic also works beautifully. Great options include:

Hook

Use the hook size that gives you gauge and produces a dense fabric. A smaller hook than usual may help prevent gaps.

Notions & Hardware

Bag Lining & Zipper

Adding a fabric lining will prevent stretching and give your bag a professional look. Choose a lightweight cotton fabric in a fun print or neutral shade. The zipper should match your chosen length and can be installed by hand or machine.

👉 Need help with bag lining? Check out my How to Add a Lining to a Crochet Bag tutorial with ErinLane Bags — This video is exclusive to the First Fall Weekender Bag VIP available here.

The image displays a vibrant graphic for "mary bird first fall make-along - crochet weekender bag supply list," featuring yarn, hook sizes, and other crochet essentials listed next to a colorful text design. -Marly Bird

Special Construction Features of the Crochet Crossbody Bag

Granny Squares with a Twist

At its heart, this is a granny square crochet bag pattern, but instead of a blanket or tote, we’re transforming those squares into a practical crossbody design. The squares are joined with a solid base, giving structure while showing off the retro motif.

Adding the Lining

While optional, lining your crochet belt bag ensures that small items (like lip balm, earbuds, or keys) don’t slip through the stitches. It also helps the bag hold its shape over time. If you’re new to linings, don’t worry—I’ve included step-by-step instructions that even a sewing beginner can follow.

Installing the Zipper

A zipper might feel intimidating, but it’s easier than you think. With some simple pinning and stitching, you’ll have a secure closure that looks store-bought. Plus, you can choose a zipper color that blends in or contrasts for extra flair.

A smiling woman with glasses and curly hair in a denim jacket holds up two colorful crocheted bags, showing their detailed patterns. Shelves with yarn and craft supplies are visible in the background. -Marly Bird

Get More Crochet You’ll Love: The Fireside Fable Crochet Collection

If you’re in the mood for even more cozy makes, you won’t want to miss the Fireside Fable Crochet Collection. This special collection features six motif-based projects designed by me and Robyn Chachula, blending texture, warmth, and modern style.

Inside the collection, you’ll find:

  • 🧶 Rosewood Cowl – an elegant motif accessory for layering
  • 🧶 Marigold Morning Cardigan – puff sleeves + vintage romance in sizes XS–5X
  • 🧶 Hazel & Honey Baby Blanket – heirloom-worthy with popcorns, lace, and texture
  • 🧶 Cover Story Cozy – part iPad cover, part clutch, all charm
  • 🧶 Ramble & Rue Bum Bag – yes, this bag is part of the collection!
  • 🧶 Lilac & Leather Bag – chic and versatile for everyday wear

The Fireside Fable collection is available as a bundle so you can grab all six patterns at once and stitch your way through projects that are as fun to make as they are to gift.

👉 Click here to explore the Fireside Fable Crochet Collection.

A collage featuring a smiling woman showcasing her crochet projects, including vibrant blankets and shawls, with a central logo reading "Fireside Fable Crochet Collection" adorned with flowers. -Marly Bird

🎁 Upgrade to just the Ad-Free PDF Pattern

Want to skip the other patterns and all the ads on the free pattern here…you can enjoy a beautifully formatted pattern? The ad-free PDF includes:

  • Instructions in easy-to-read layout
  • Easy-to-follow written instructions
  • Exclusive Access to stitch diagram

📌 Get the Ramble and Rue Crossbody Bum Bag Ad Free PDF

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A crochet bag with a colorful granny square rests on a woven surface. To the left, several pages of an ad-free PDF pattern are fanned out. Text reads "Ramble & Rue Crochet Bag" and "BUY NOW" with an arrow. -Marly Bird

Free Ramble and Rue Crochet Bag Pattern

CROCHET MOTIF SLING/ BUM BAG/ CROSSBODY Designed by Robyn Chachula for MarlyBird.com

Meet the Ramble and Rue Crossbody Sling Bag, your new go-to for days that never seem to slow down. Designed with busy moms in mind, it’s the perfect size to toss in your phone, keys, and wallet before heading out the door. The playful crochet motif gives it a handcrafted charm, while the crossbody sling keeps your hands free for all of life’s little adventures. Worked up in just a small amount of cotton yarn and four cheerful colors, it’s as fun to make as it is to wear. Equal parts practical and pretty, this bag is a stylish reminder that handmade can keep up with even the busiest of days.

SKILL LEVEL

Intermediate 

MEASUREMENTS

Finished Measurements

Bag is 13” [33 cm] wide by 5” [12.5 cm] deep. 

Gauge 

1 motif = 4” [10 cm] by 4” [10 cm]; use any size hook to obtain the gauge. 

MATERIALS

Crochet Yarn 

WeCrochet, Animation (100% Mercerized Cotton, 139 yds / 127 m, 1.75 oz/ 50 g, CYCA# 3 DK)

Colorway #1, 1 ball each:

Color A: #2688 Inlet

Color B: #2699 Sunbaked

Color C: #2700 Swan

Color D: #2675 Black

Colorway #2, 1 ball each:

Color A: #2692 Lilac Mist

Color B: #2685 Douglas Fir

Color C: #2677 Blush

Color D: #2695 Mushroom

Crochet Hook

Size E/4 [3.5 mm]

Notions 

ABBREVIATIONS

Ch – Chain(s) 

Dc – Double Crochet 

Hdc – Half Double Crochet

RS – Right Side 

Sc – Single Crochet

Sl st – Slip Stitch

Sp(s) – Space(s) 

St(s) – Stitch(es)

Stacked Dc – Stacked Double Crochet 

Tch – Turning Chain

WS – Wrong Side

SPECIAL STITCHES 

⭐️2 Double Crochet Cluster (2dc-cl): *Yarn over hook, insert hook into indicated st, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook; repeat from * once more in same st, yarn over and draw through all 3 loops on hook. 

⭐️3 Double Crochet Cluster (3dc-cl): *Yarn over hook, insert hook into indicated st, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook; repeat from * twice more in same st, yarn over and draw through all 4 loops on hook. 

⭐️ Stacked Double Crochet (Stacked Dc): (Do not ch 1 prior to making the first sc) Sc in first stitch, insert hook in between two legs of the base, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook.

LAYOUT

A diagram with four gray squares labeled A, B, and two C's. B is at the bottom center, with blue arrows pointing up to C on the left and right—ideal for illustrating a Crochet Crossbody Bag Pattern. Orange diagonal lines cross through the C squares. -Marly Bird

STITCH DIAGRAM

Stitch diagram for joining round is only available in the ad-free PDF.

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NOTES

  • Motifs are joined as you crochet the joining row.  You can use any method to join the motifs using the placement in the layout.
  • There are multiple options for the lining.  If you want a more professional look, make two linings to have the seams hidden from the inside and outside of the bag. If you choose to do that, you will need more fabric. 

VIDEO TUTORIALS

A crocheted crossbody bum bag with a colorful granny square design and a woven beige strap sits on a woven tray. Text below reads, "RAMBLE & rue Crossbody Bum Bag Pattern" and "Marly Bird. -Marly Bird

RAMBLE AND RUE CROCHET MOTIF SLING BAG PATTERN

Make 4.

Make an adjustable ring with color A. 

Round 1 (RS): Ch 1, [sc in ring, ch 6] 5 times, sc in ring, ch 3, dc in first sc (counts as ch-6 sp), close ring, do not turn – 6 ch-6 sps. 

Round 2: Ch 2, 2 dc-cl around post of dc, *ch 3, (3 dc-cl, ch 3, 3 dc-cl) in next ch-6 sp; repeat from * around, ch 3, 3 dc-cl in first ch-sp, ch 3, sl st to first dc-cl, fasten off color A, do not turn – 12 dc-cl + 12 ch-3 sps. 

Round 3: Join color B with a sc in any ch-3 sp, ch 4, sl st to prev sc (counts as picot), *ch 4, sc in next ch-3 sp, ch 4, sl st to prev sc; repeat from * around, ch 4, sl st to first sc, fasten off color B, do not turn – 12 picots + 12 ch-4 sps. 

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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.

Round 4: Join color C with a sc in any ch-4 sp, *ch 5, skip picot, sc in next ch-4 sp; repeat from * around, ch 4, sl st to first sc, fasten off color C, do not turn – 12 ch-5 sps.

Round 5: Join color D with a sc in any ch-5 sp, sc in same ch-5 sp, *ch 3, 2 dc in next ch-5 sp, ch 5, 2 dc in next ch-5 sp, ch 3**, 2 sc in next ch-5 sp; repeat from * around ending at **, sl st to first sc, do not turn – 8 sc + 16 dc + 4 ch-5 sps + 8 ch-3 sps. 

Round 6: Stacked dc in first sc, dc in next sc, *3 dc in next ch-3 sp, dc in next 2 dc, (3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc) in next ch-5 sp, dc in next 2 dc, 3 dc in next ch-3 sp**, dc in next 2 sc; repeat from * around ending at **, sl st to first dc, fasten off – 72 dc + 4 ch-4 sps. 

JOINING

Stitch diagram for joining round is only available in the ad-free PDF.

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See layout for assistance on placement of motifs. 

Motif A

Joining Round: Join color D with a standing dc in any ch-3 sp corner, dc in same ch-3 sp, [dc in each dc to next ch-3 sp, 5 dc in next ch-3 sp, place marker in middle dc] twice, dc in each dc to last ch-3 sp, 2 dc in last ch-3 sp, fasten off. 

Motif B

Joining Round:  Join color D with a standing dc in any ch-3 sp corner, dc in same ch-3 sp, dc in each dc to next ch-3 sp, 2 dc in next ch-3 sp, dc join to marked dc on Motif A in same ch-3 sp on Motif B, place marker, hdc join to next 2 sts on Motif A in same ch-3 sp on Motif B, [hdc join to next st on Motif A in next dc on Motif B] repeat across until next ch-3 sp on Motif B, hdc join to next 2 sts on Motif A in next ch-3 sp on Motif B, dc join to next st (marked stitch) on Motif A in same ch-3 sp on Motif B, place marker, 2 dc in same ch-3 sp, dc in each dc to last ch-3 sp, 2 dc in last ch-3 sp, fasten off. 

Motif C

Joining Round:  Join color D with a hdc join to first st on adjoining motif in any ch-3 sp corner, hdc join to next st on adjoining motif in same ch-3 sp, [hdc join to next st on adjoining motif in next dc on Motif C] repeat across until next ch-3 sp on Motif C, hdc join to next 2 sts on adjoining motif in next ch-3 sp on Motif C, dc join to next st (marked stitch) on adjoining motif in same ch-3 sp on Motif C, hdc join to next 2 sts on adjoining motif in same ch-3 sp on Motif C, [hdc join to next st on adjoining motif in next dc on Motif C] repeat across until next ch-3 sp on Motif C, hdc join to next 2 sts on adjoining motif in next ch-3 sp on Motif C, fasten off. 

FINISHING

Edging

Round 1: Join color D with a sc in any st along the top edge, sc evenly around top edge of bag, sl st to first sc, fasten off and weave in ends. 

Round 2: Join color B with sl st in any sc of Round 1, sl st in each sc around, sl st to first sl st, fasten off and weave in ends. 

Round 3: Join color A with a hdc in any sc of Round 1, hdc in each sc around, sl st to first hdc, fasten off and weave in ends.

Round 4: Join color C with a sl st in any hdc of Round 3, sl st in each hdc around, sl st to first st, fasten off and weave in ends. 

Tabs

Note: Tabs are located on each long edge to attach D-rings and the purse handle.  Locate the center stitch of the bag along the long edge (will be above the corner of the motif), mark off 2 sts from the center stitch. 

Row 1: Join color C with a sc in the marked stitch, sc in next 4 sts, turn- 5 sc.

Rows 2-5: Ch 1, sc in each sc, turn.

Fasten off with long tail for seaming. Thread on a D ring. Fold tab over and with tail, seam last row to first row. 

Lining and Zipper

  1. Fold fabric in half with right side on the inside. 
  2. Trace outline of bag onto fabric with washable or disappearing fabric marker (or make the outline with painters tape, if you do not have a fabric marker).
  3. Mark off ⅜” [1 cm] side and bottom edges.
  4. Mark off 1” [2.5 cm] top edge.
  5. Cut out fabric on Marked edges. 
  6. Using sewing needle and thread backstitch a ⅜” [1 cm] seam on the sides and bottom edge. 
  7. Iron side and bottom seam open.  
  8. (optional): Fold seam over again and iron, seam to lining or using fusible webbing iron in place. 
  9. Fold and iron top edge ½” [1.3 cm] down.
  10. Fold and iron top edge down again.
  11. (optional) Make a second lining and place seams on the inside.
  12. Place lining in the crochet bag, pin in place.
  13. Using sewing needle and thread, whip stitch lining to bag.
  14. Pin one side of the zipper into the bag.
  15. Backstitch zipper with sewing needle and thread through the top edging.
  16. Open the zipper and pin other side of zipper into bag.
  17. Backstitch zipper with sewing needle and thread through the top edging.
  18. Tack the top and bottom of the zipper in place to the lining.
A smiling person with curly blonde hair, wearing glasses and a denim jacket, holds a crochet crossbody bag pattern featuring colorful granny squares in a cozy, well-lit room. -Marly Bird

Tips for Customizing Your Bag

The beauty of handmade accessories is making them your own!

  • Color Combos – Try earth tones for a neutral everyday bag, or bold brights for a playful statement piece.
  • Strap Length – Adjust the strap to make it a crossbody, waist bag, or even a shoulder bag.
  • Zipper Contrast – A brightly colored zipper can add a fun design element.
  • Personal Touches – Add a tassel, patch, or even embroidery to make your bag unique.

For more ways to use your leftover yarn, check out my Stash-Busting Crochet Patterns.

A promotional poster for "the stash busting pattern collection," featuring photos of a smiling woman wearing colorful knit items, a website screenshot, and text about a bonus Marly Bird Color Companion GPT and the This or That Make-Along 2025. -Marly Bird
Crochet Collection

FAQ About Crochet Crossbody Bags

Can I make this bag bigger?

Yes! Add more granny squares or use a larger hook and thicker yarn to increase the size.

Do I have to add a lining?

Technically no, but without a lining the bag may stretch and smaller items could poke through. For durability, lining is highly recommended.

Can I use chunky yarn instead of worsted?

Yes, but keep in mind the finished bag will be larger and may require a longer zipper.

Can beginners make this?

If you’re comfortable with basic crochet stitches and joining granny squares, you can definitely tackle this project. The zipper and lining are broken down step by step.

A smiling woman with curly hair and glasses holds up a colorful crochet crossbody bag pattern. She is wearing a denim jacket and standing in a bright, craft-filled room. -Marly Bird

More Crochet Bag Patterns You’ll Love

Looking for more trendy crochet bag ideas? Try these:

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Final Thoughts

The Ramble and Rue Crochet Bag is the perfect blend of style and function—an accessory you’ll use every day. Whether you call it a fanny pack, bum bag, or belt bag, this crochet crossbody bag pattern is sure to become one of your favorites.

Be sure to share your finished bags with me on social media using #MarlyBird and #MMMDI (Marly Made Me Do It)—I can’t wait to see your creations!

❤️ Your BiCrafty Bestie,
Marly Bird

A cartoon avatar of a person with glasses and a brown bun smiles warmly. Their green shirt and black jacket add a stylish touch, while colorful hearts surround them like loving temperature blankets, stitching together an aura of love and positivity. -Marly Bird

Flicker and Flash Crochet Hat – Free Crochet Pattern

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A Stash-Busting Crochet Hat You’ll Love

Got leftover yarn from past projects (or maybe a few too many skeins in your stash 🤭)? The Flicker and Flash Crochet Hat is here to turn those scraps into something bright, fun, and wearable for the whole family.

A smiling woman in a denim jacket models and holds a colorful Crochet Hat with a green pom-pom from the Flicker and Flash Free Crochet Pattern, shown in two portraits and one close-up of the hat on a white background. -Marly Bird

This free crochet hat pattern uses sport weight yarn and colorful striping with long double crochet stitches that create a bold, flickering effect. The textured body stitch is paired with ribbing worked in single crochet back loop only for the brim—so you get plenty of stretch and comfort.

With nine sizes included (from baby through adult large), you can make one for everyone. It’s a quick, stash-friendly project you’ll come back to whenever you want color, texture, and instant gratification.

👉 If you’re looking for a stash-busting crochet project that’s beginner-friendly but still looks impressive, this one is for you.

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Why You’ll Love the Flicker and Flash Crochet Hat

✔️ Perfect stash-busting crochet pattern – uses partial skeins and scraps
✔️ Adventurous beginner friendly – simple stitches worked in fun ways
✔️ Nine sizes included – from newborn to adult large
✔️ Choose between a single brim or cozy double brim
✔️ Add optional pom poms and leather tags for a store-bought look
✔️ Works in any sport weight yarn

A smiling person with curly hair and glasses holds a large bundle of colorful yarn balls, wearing a green top—ready for the This or That Make-Along 2025—while sitting indoors with blurred background furniture. -Marly Bird

What Makes This Crochet Hat Special

The Flicker and Flash uses long double crochet stitches (ldc) to “flash” a color from one round into the next, giving the fabric a woven, pixelated look. By changing colors every round, you get incredible movement and texture while keeping the stitch repeat simple and easy to memorize.

It’s the perfect hat if you:

  • Want a beginner-friendly crochet hat with texture
  • Love playing with color striping
  • Need a stash buster crochet pattern that uses sport weight yarn

Yarn Choice & Substitutions

The sample uses Knit Picks Brava Sport (a durable, budget-friendly acrylic with tons of colors). But the Flicker and Flash works in just about any sport weight yarn.

Great substitutions:

💡 Pro Tip: Acrylic is durable and machine-washable, great for kids’ hats. Cotton gives you beautiful stitch definition but less stretch.

Sizing Details

This free baby-to-adult crochet hat pattern is written in nine sizes:

  • 0–3 mo
  • 3–6 mo
  • 6–12 mo
  • 1–3 yr
  • 3–5 yr
  • 6–10 yr
  • Teen/Adult Small
  • Adult Medium
  • Adult Large

Each size is written with about 1″ (2.5 cm) of negative ease so the hats fit comfortably without being too tight.

Split image with two smiling women wearing glasses and crocheted hats in green, cream, and pink; text reads "Flicker and Flash," "Free Crochet Pattern," "This or That Make-Along," with snowflake decorations. -Marly Bird

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A promotional image for the flicker and flash crochet hat pattern PDF. It features the cozy hat with a pom-pom, sample pattern pages, and a “Buy Now” button. Text reads “Ad-Free PDF!” and “Flicker & Flash Crochet Hat.”. -Marly Bird

More Crochet Hat Patterns You’ll Love

If you loved Flicker and Flash, you’ll also enjoy these free crochet hat patterns on MarlyBird.com:

Are You BiCrafty? 🧶✨

If you knit and crochet, don’t miss the sister pattern: the Pixel Pop Knit Hat. Both hats are designed with stash-busting in mind, and they’re part of the same This or That Make-Along. Choose your craft…or make both!

Two colorful knit beanies with large faux fur pom-poms on top. Inspired by the Flicker and Flash crochet hat, each features ribbed brims, leather tags, and vibrant hues—perfect for those seeking a fun accessory or a free crochet pattern idea. -Marly Bird

✨ Flicker and Flash Crochet Hat Pattern Details

by Marly Bird

Crochet hats are the ultimate “go-to” project: quick, fun, and the perfect stash buster for leftover yarn. The Easy Peasy Beanie is written for 9 sizes (from newborn all the way to Adult Large), so you can make one for everyone in the family. This beginner-friendly design uses a single crochet in the back loop only ribbing and a simple textured body stitch, making it a great first hat project or a relaxing repeat for experienced crocheters.

A size-inclusive, beginner-friendly crochet hat that’s scrap-yarn approved and fun to stripe. Built on single crochet ribbing with a textured long double crochet body. Written in nine sizes: 0–3 mo, 3–6 mo, 6–12 mo, 1–3 yr, 3–5 yr, 6–10 yr, Teen/Adult S, Adult M, Adult L.

A smiling person wears a green and white patterned knit hat with a pom-pom and “Marly Bird” label—perfect for stash-busting or finding free knit hat patterns—plus a denim jacket and hoop earrings, sitting indoors with shelves and plants behind them. -Marly Bird

Skill Level

Adventurous Beginner

Measurements and Sizing

Sizes

0–3 mo (3–6 mo, 6–12 mo, 1–3 yr, 3–5 yr, 6–10 yr, Teen/Adult S, Adult M, Adult L)

Fit note: Hats are written with 1″ (2.5 cm) negative ease, so they fit comfortably without being too tight. All measurements are given in both inches and centimeters for convenience. Choose the size closest to your head circumference, allowing about 1″ (2.5 cm) of negative ease for best fit.

Sizing Charts

Sport Weight – Circumference Table

SizeTo-Fit Head Circ (in)Finished Hat Circ (in)To-Fit Head Circ (cm)Finished Hat Circ (cm)
0–3 mo14″12.75″35.5 cm32.5 cm
3–6 mo16″15″40.5 cm38 cm
6–12 mo17.5″16″44.5 cm40.5 cm
1–3 yr19″18″48.5 cm46 cm
3–5 yr20″19.25″51 cm49 cm
6–10 yr21″20.25″53.5 cm51.5 cm
Teen/Adult S22″20.25″56 cm51.5 cm
Adult M23″22.5″58.5 cm57 cm
Adult L24″23.5″61 cm59.5 cm

Gauge

8 [ldc + ch-1 sps] x 16 rounds = 4.25” [11 cm] x 4” [10 cm]; use any size hook to obtain the gauge. 

Note: For ease of measuring, we grouped the long double crochet and ch-1 sps together into a stitch repeat.  Measure 8 stitch repeats, which is 16 total stitches, for gauge. 

Materials

Yarn

Sport weight yarn in 3, 5, or 7 colors, approximately 100–250 yds [91.5-228.5 m] depending on size and number of colors used

  • Colors A (Brim): 100g
  • Colors B, C, D, and E, (Body Colors): 25g – 50g each

Note: The pattern will still work with even more colors, but will lose the repeating effect. It can also work with an even rather than odd number of colors; this will make each color look more vertically stacked, rather than alternating and woven.

Suggested Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Sport (100% Premium Acrylic, 340 yds / 311 m, 3½ oz / 100g, CYCA #3 sport)

Hook

G/7 (4.5 mm) and H/8 (5.0 mm), or size to meet gauge

Notions

Faux Fur Pom (optional)

Removable stitch markers

Tapestry needle 

Leather tag (optional)

Abbreviations

Ch — Chain(s)

Sc — Single Crochet

Dc — Double Crochet

Sl st — Slip Stitch

Sp(s) — Space(s)

RS — Right Side

St(s) — Stitch(es)

WS — Wrong Side

Yo — Yarn Over

Special Stitches

⭐️ Back Loop Only (BLO): Work into the furthest of the top two loops of the stitch indicated, regardless of right side or wrong side.

⭐️ Long Double Crochet (Ldc): Work a double crochet into the stitch indicated one round below the previous round worked. This stitch will be worked around the previous round worked, encasing the ch-sp on the previous round.

⭐️ Long Double Crochet 2 Together (Ldc2tog): * Yo, insert hook in stitch one round below, yo and pull up a loop, yo and draw through 2 loops, repeat from * once more in the next indicated stitch, yo and draw through all 3 loops on hook.

⭐️ Stacked Double Crochet (Stacked Dc): (Do not ch 1 prior to making the first sc) Sc in first stitch, insert hook in between two legs of the base, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and draw through 2 loops on hook.

⭐️ Single Crochet 2 Together (sc2tog): * Insert hook into indicated stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop; repeat from * in next stitch indicated, yarn over and draw through all 3 loops on hook. (1 decrease)

Notes

  • Work bottom up: ribbing, then body, then crown.
  • Change color at the end of every round of the body. You can cut the old color and have tails to weave in or drop the old color to the inside and float it up when needed. 
  • Change color in any order desired.  If you use an odd number of colors, you will have a tweed (offset) look to the stitch pattern.  If you use an even number of colors, you will have a vertical (stacked) look to the stitch pattern. 
  • Do not turn at the end of rounds unless stated.
  • Use a smaller hook for the brim and a larger hook for the body of the hat.  If you have a very tight tension, you can use the larger hook for the brim as well.
  • Sizes are written as: 0–3 mo (3–6 mo, 6–12 mo, 1–3 yr, 3–5 yr, 6–10 yr, Teen/Adult S, Adult M, Adult L).

VIDEO TUTORIAL

A woman wearing glasses holds a crocheted beanie with a green pom-pom. Another photo shows her smiling in the same Crochet Hat. Text reads: "How to Crochet Flicker and Flash Free Crochet Pattern," with snowflake graphics decorating the image. -Marly Bird

🎉 Flicker and Flash Crochet Hat Pattern (Sport Weight)

Ribbed Brim 

Option 1: Single Brim

With color A and smaller hook, ch 7 (7, 8, 8, 9, 9, 10, 10, 10).

Row 1 (RS): Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across, turn — 6 (6, 7, 7, 8, 8, 9, 9, 9) sts.

Row 2: Ch 1, sc-blo in each sc across, turn.

Repeat Row 2 46 (54, 58, 66, 70, 74, 74, 82, 86) times more — 48 (56, 60, 68, 72, 76, 76, 84, 88) rows total.

Joining Row: With WS facing, bring short ends together and sl st through both layers across to form a loop. Do not fasten off.

Option 2: Double Brim

With color A and smaller hook, ch 13 (13, 15, 15, 17, 17, 19, 19, 19).

Row 1 (RS): Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across, turn — 12 (12, 14, 14, 16, 16, 18, 18, 18) sts.

Row 2: Ch 1, sc-blo in each sc across, turn.

Repeat Row 2 46 (54, 58, 66, 70, 74, 74, 82, 86) times more — 48 (56, 60, 68, 72, 76, 76, 84, 88) rows total.

Joining Row: With WS facing, bring short ends together and sl st through both layers across to form a loop. Do not fasten off.

A smiling woman in a denim jacket models and holds a colorful Crochet Hat with a green pom-pom from the Flicker and Flash Free Crochet Pattern, shown in two portraits and one close-up of the hat on a white background. -Marly Bird
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Body

Working around the long edge of the brim, continue with color A  and larger hook as follows:

Set-Up Round 1: Stacked dc into the end of the first row of ribbing, *ch 1, skip next row of ribbing, dc into the end of next row of ribbing; repeat from * around to last row of ribbing, ch 1, skip last row, join with sl st to first dc. Fasten off— 24 (28, 30, 34, 36, 38, 38, 42, 44) groups of ldc + ch-1 sps.

Set-Up Round 2: Join next color to next ch-1 sp, ch 1, *ldc in skipped row of brim below the next ch-sp, ch 1, skip next ldc; repeat from * around, join round with sl st to first dc. Fasten off.

Round 1: Join next color to the last ch-1 sp from previous round, ch 1, *ldc in dc below next ch-sp, ch 1, skip next st; repeat from * around, join round with sl st to first dc. Fasten off.

Round 2: Join next color to next ch-1 sp, ch 1, *ldc in dc below the next ch-sp, ch 1, skip next st; repeat from * around, join round with sl st to first dc. Fasten off.

🔁 Repeat Rounds 1 & 2 changing colors each round, always fastening off and rejoining the new color in a different ch-1 space until hat measures from brim:
4 (4.5, 5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5)″ [10 (11.5, 12.5, 15, 16.5, 18, 19, 20.5, 21.5) cm] and after a round 1.

Crown

Sizes 6-12 mo (1-3 yr, 6-10 yr, Teen/ Adult S, Adult M) Only

Set-up Round: Join next color to the last ch-1 sp from previous round, ch 1, *[ldc in dc below next ch-sp, ch 1, skip next st] 13 (15, 17, 17, 19] times, ldc2tog in next 2 dc below the next 2 ch-1 sps, ch 1; repeat from * around, join round with sl st to first dc. Fasten off. – – (-, 28, 32, -, 36, 36, 40, -) groups of ldc + ch-1 sps.

Sizes 0-3 mo (3-6 mo, 3-5 yr, Adult L) Only

Set-up Round: Join next color to the last ch-1 sp from previous round, ch 1, *ldc in dc below next ch-sp, ch 1, skip next st; repeat from * around, join round with sl st to first dc. Fasten off. – 24 (28, -, -, 36, -, -, -, 44) groups of ldc + ch-1 sps.

All Sizes

Round 1: Join next color to the last ch-1 sp from previous round, ch 1, *ldc in dc below next ch-sp, ch 1, skip next st, ldc2tog in the next 2 dc below the ch-1 sps, ch 1, skip next st, ldc in dc below next ch-1 sp, ch 1, skip next st; repeat from * around, join round with sl st to first dc. Fasten off—18 (21, 21, 24, 27, 27, 27, 30, 33) groups of ldc + ch-1 sps.

Round 2: Join next color to next ch-1 sp from previous round, ch 1, *ldc2tog in the next 2 dc below the next 2 ch-1 sps, ch 1, skip next st, ldc in dc below next ch-sp, ch 1, skip next st; repeat from * around, join with sl st to first dc. Fasten off—12 (14, 14, 16, 18, 18, 18, 20, 22) groups of ldc + ch-1 sps.

Round 3: Join next color to the last ch-1 sp from previous round, ch 1, *ldc2tog in the next 2 dc below the next two ch-1 sps, ch 1, skip next st; repeat from * around, join with sl st to first dc. Fasten off—6 (7, 7, 8, 9, 9, 9, 10, 11) groups of ldc + ch-1 sps.

Round 4: Join next color to the next ch-1 sp from previous round, ch 1, *ldc in dc below the next ch-1 sps, sc in next dc; repeat form * around, join with sl st to first dc—12 (14, 14, 16, 18, 18, 18, 20, 22) sts. 

Round 5: Sc2tog in next two sts; repeat from * around, join with a sl st to first sc—6 (7, 7, 8, 9, 9, 9, 10, 11) sts.  

Finish:
For stitches remaining, weave tail through the front loop of each stitch, pull tight, secure on wrong side. 

Finishing

Weave in all ends on the inside. Add a pom-pom if you like. Light steam to relax the crown only, keep the ribbing snappy and elastic.

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A smiling person in a denim jacket holds a colorful, stash-busting crocheted hat with a pom-pom and a label that says "Marly Bird." The softly blurred background reveals shelves and plants. -Marly Bird

Final Thoughts on the Flicker and Flash Crochet Hat

The Flicker and Flash Crochet Hat is a playful reminder that yarn doesn’t need to sit in your stash forever. With simple stitches, bold color play, and nine sizes to choose from, it’s a pattern you’ll return to again and again—whether you’re making gifts, prepping for markets, or just treating yourself.

I can’t wait to see your hats in action! Be sure to tag me @themarlybird with hashtags #MarlyBird and #MMMDI (Marly Made Me Do It) so I can share your makes.

And if you’re hooked (pun intended 😘) on this one, don’t forget to check out my other free crochet patterns for even more inspiration.

Pin the Flicker and Flash Crochet Hat for Later 📌

Not ready to start? Save this to Pinterest and keep it handy for when your hook and stash are calling!

❤️ Your BiCrafty Bestie,
Marly Bird

A cartoon avatar of a person with glasses and a brown bun smiles warmly. Their green shirt and black jacket add a stylish touch, while colorful hearts surround them like loving temperature blankets, stitching together an aura of love and positivity. -Marly Bird

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Flicker and Flash Crochet Hat?

The Flicker and Flash is a free colorwork crochet hat pattern by Marly Bird, designed for the “This or That Make-Along 2025” as the crochet counterpart to the Pixel Pop Knit Hat. It uses mosaic slip stitch colorwork to create a bold, modern geometric design in two colors. Like all mosaic crochet, you only work with one color at a time per row… so it's much more approachable than traditional stranded colorwork. It works up quickly and the finished hat is genuinely eye-catching.

What skill level is this hat?

Advanced beginner to intermediate. You should be comfortable crocheting in the round and following a simple chart. Mosaic slip stitch crochet (working one color per row and slipping stitches from the previous round to create the pattern) is beginner-friendly once you understand the concept… you're just slipping certain stitches instead of working into them. The chart guides you through which stitches to work and which to slip. If you've made basic crochet hats and want to try your first colorwork… this is a great starting point.

What yarn should I use for the Flicker and Flash Hat?

Worsted weight in two colors with strong contrast… a light and dark combination gives you the crispest geometric pattern. Smooth yarn with good stitch definition helps the mosaic pattern read clearly. Wool or wool blend is ideal for a warm hat that blocks beautifully. Smooth acrylic in two high-contrast colors also works great and gives you a machine-washable hat. This pattern is specifically designed to use up leftover worsted weight stash yarn from make-alongs and other projects… perfect for stash busting!

How is mosaic crochet different from regular colorwork?

In regular stranded colorwork you carry both yarns across every row. In mosaic crochet, you work one color per row or round… stitches from the other color are simply slipped (passed without working). The slipped stitches from the previous round create the pattern by bringing that color up into the new row. No floats, no tangled yarns, no managing two strands at once. It's genuinely the most approachable way to do colorwork in crochet… the result looks complex but the technique is very manageable.

Can I make the Flicker and Flash Hat in any color combination?

Yes! Any two colors with good contrast work. The pattern doesn't specify colors… that's part of the fun. Classic combinations like cream and charcoal, navy and white, or black and a bright pop color all look stunning. The geometric pattern shows up best when you have clear contrast between your two colors. If you're not sure about contrast, take a photo of your two yarns and view it in black and white… if they look different shades of grey, the contrast is enough. If they look the same shade, they're too similar.

Pixel Pop Knit Hat – Free Mosaic Slip Stitch Knitting…

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A Colorful Stash-Busting Knit Hat You’ll Love

Got leftover yarn piling up in your bins, baskets, and tote bags? 🎨 The Pixel Pop Knit Hat is the perfect stash-busting knitting pattern to transform scraps into something fun, wearable, and oh-so-stylish.

Two photos of a smiling woman in glasses and a denim jacket holding a colorful knit hat with a white pom-pom. Text: "Pixel Pop" and "This or That Make-Along" highlight this free knitting pattern featuring mosaic slip stitch. Winter-themed decorations included. -Marly Bird

This free mosaic knit hat pattern uses slip-stitch colorwork—which means you only work with one color per round. No juggling multiple strands or stressing over floats like stranded colorwork.

Just knit, slip,
switch colors, and
watch the pixelated magic appear.

Whether you stick to three colors or go all in with seven (or more!), every version turns out unique. Plus, the folded double brim adds extra warmth and coziness—perfect for chilly days or holiday gifting.

👉 If you love quick, colorful, and customizable projects, this is one you’ll come back to again and again.

A woman in a blue denim jacket smiles joyfully while wearing a colorful knit beanie with a white pom-pom—perfect inspiration for stash-busting knit hat patterns. She stands in a cozy, well-lit room with books and plants in the background. -Marly Bird

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. To learn more please visit my privacy policy here💖

Why You’ll Love the Pixel Pop Knit Hat

✔️ Perfect stash-busting knitting pattern – use small amounts of leftover yarn
✔️ Advanced beginner friendly mosaic knitting pattern – no complicated floats
✔️ Nine sizes included – from baby to adult large
✔️ Cozy knit hat pattern with folded brim
✔️ Works beautifully in any worsted weight yarn
✔️ Optional pom pom + leather tag for a polished finish

A smiling person with curly hair and glasses holds a large bundle of colorful yarn balls, wearing a green top—ready for the This or That Make-Along 2025—while sitting indoors with blurred background furniture. -Marly Bird

What is Mosaic Knitting?

If you’ve never tried mosaic knitting before, this hat is a great place to start. Mosaic colorwork uses slipped stitches to create bold geometric patterns while only working with one color per round.

  • No tangling yarns behind your work
  • Crisp, pixel-like designs with minimal fuss
  • A fantastic way to explore color without the intimidation of stranded knitting

Want to see it in action? I’ve got a full step-by-step video tutorial: How to Knit the Pixel Pop Hat.

Two smiling women display a colorful knit hat with a pom-pom, showcasing a fun mosaic slip stitch design. Text reads: "How to Knit Pixel Pop - Free Knitting Pattern." Winter-themed graphics decorate the background. -Marly Bird

Yarn Choice & Substitutions

The sample uses KnitPicks Swish Worsted (a soft superwash merino), but this pattern works beautifully with almost any worsted weight yarn.

Try these stash-friendly and accessible alternatives:

💡 Pro Tip: Acrylic yarns are great for durability and easy care, while wool and blends add warmth and stretch.

Stash Yarn From Previous Events and Projects?

Did you participate in any of these recent Marly Bird Events?

If you answered YES to any of those, chances are you've got a little yarn left in your stash. Maybe a lot of yarn. 😅 Don’t worry—The Pixel Pop Knit Hat is the perfect way to put it to good use!

Sizing Details

This free baby to adult knit hat pattern comes in nine sizes:

  • 0–3 mo
  • 3–6 mo
  • 6–12 mo
  • 1–3 yr
  • 3–5 yr
  • 6–10 yr
  • Teen/Adult Small
  • Adult Medium
  • Adult Large

That makes it perfect for:
🎁 Holiday gifts
👨‍👩‍👧 Matching family hats
🛍 Market prep (unique, colorful hats are always crowd-pleasers!)

Smiling woman in a denim jacket holds the brim of a colorful, knitted beanie with a fluffy white pom-pom—perfect for stash-busting—standing in a cozy room with shelves of yarn in the background. -Marly Bird

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  • Instructions for Worsted weight yarn
  • Easy-to-follow written instructions
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  • Charts

📌 Get the Pixel Pop Knit Hat Ad Free PDF
(Access inside the Marly Bird House with unlimited viewing and bonus material)

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A colorful pixel pop knit hat with a pom-pom is displayed on a woven mat. The image advertises an ad-free PDF pattern called “Pixel Pop,” alongside printed pattern pages and a "Buy Now" button on a blue background. -Marly Bird

Looking for Matching Mittens?

🧤✨ The Pixel Pop Knit Mittens are HERE ✨🧤

If you loved the Pixel Pop Hat, you’re going to flip your stitch markers over the matching mittens! These mosaic colorwork mittens are:

🧶 Written for 6 sizes (baby to adult XL)
🎨 Made with worsted weight yarn scraps
🧵 Easier than they look thanks to slip-stitch mosaic knitting!

Whether you want to make a matching set or just love a good stash buster, now’s the perfect time to grab the pattern.

🛒 Grab it on your favorite platform:
💻 Shopify: https://shop.marlybird.com/products/pixel-pop-knit-mitten-pattern
🧶 Ravelry: https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/pixel-pop-knit-mittens
🧵 Etsy: https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=vMRXoG90hiM&mid=4231730&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.etsy.com%2Flisting%2F1826692551%2Fknitting-pattern-video-fingerless%3Fref%3Dlistings_manager_grid

Colorful Pixel Pop knit hat with a white pom-pom and matching mittens in a blue, purple, green, and white pattern are displayed on a light wood surface next to balls of yarn in coordinating colors. -Marly Bird

More Mosaic & Colorwork Hat Patterns

If you enjoy the Pixel Pop Knit Hat, you’ll also love these free patterns here on MarlyBird.com:

And if you’re in the mood for even more projects: Explore 100+ Free Knitting Patterns.

A knitted beanie, perfect for KNIT GAME DAY, features a grey and green textured pattern with a fluffy pom-pom on top. It has a ribbed brim adorned with a leather patch that reads "Marly Bird." The backdrop is a light wooden surface. -Marly Bird
Twilight Trails Knit Mosaic Hat Pattern – A Stylish & Textured DesignTwilight Trails
A person wearing glasses smiles while holding two knitted hats with pom-poms, showcasing a free pattern. One hat is blue and green, and the other is red and white. The cozy indoor setting adds warmth with its furnishings and decorations. -Marly Bird
Falling Leaves Mosaic Hat
A smiling woman wearing glasses and a colorful knit hat—made from a one-day colorwork knit hat pattern with a blue pom-pom—poses indoors. Shelves of vibrant yarn line the background. She touches her hat’s edge and wears a dark jacket. -Marly Bird
Northern Lights
A smiling person wearing glasses and a denim jacket holds up a colorful knit hat pattern with a pom-pom, standing indoors in a bright, cozy room. -Marly Bird
Roy G Biv
A smiling person wearing a denim jacket and a colorful knit hat with a blue pom-pom stands indoors, surrounded by shelves of yarn—a perfect setting to showcase their mosaic slip stitch knitting pattern. -Marly Bird
Harmony Hues

✨ Pixel Pop Knit Hat – Free Pattern Details

Designed by: Marly Bird

Skill Level: Advanced Beginner

Sizes: 0–3 mo (3–6 mo, 6–12 mo, 1–3 yr, 3–5 yr, 6–10 yr, Teen/Adult S, Adult M, Adult L)

Finished Measurements
Brim Circumference (stretchable):
12 (14¼, 16, 17½, 18½, 19, 20, 21, 22¼)”
[30.5 (36, 40.5, 44.5, 47, 48.5, 51, 53.5, 56.5) cm]

Gauge
20 sts = 4” [10 cm] in Mosaic Slip Stitch pattern

Materials

Yarn

Worsted weight yarn in 3, 5, or 7 colors, approximately 100–250 yds [91.5-228.5 m] depending on size and number of colors used

  • Colors A & B (Brim Colors): 50g each
  • Colors C, D, E, F, and G (Body Colors): 25g – 50g each 

Note: The pattern will still work with even more colors, but will lose the repeating effect. It can also work with an even rather than odd number of colors; this will make each color look more vertically stacked, rather than alternating and woven.

Yarn used on Sample:

KnitPicks Swish Worsted (100% Superwash Merino Wool, 110 yds / 100 m, 1 ¾ oz/ 50 g, CYCA# 4 worsted) – 1 ball each

  • Color A  #26070 Green Tea
  • Color B  #24094 Marine Heather
  • Color C  #C28646 Voyage Heather
  • Color D  #C28656 Arctic
  • Color E  #C24097 Indigo Heather
  • Color F  #C28647 Haze Heather
  • Color G #C28650 Karma Heather

Needles

U.S. 8 [5 mm] 16” circular needles and set of 5 double-pointed needles, or size to obtain gauge.

Notions

Faux Fur Pom (optional)

Removable stitch markers

Tapestry needle Leather tag (optional)

ABBREVIATIONS

  • K – Knit
  • KFB – Knit into the front and back of the same stitch (see Special Stitches)
  • P – Purl
  • Pm – Place Marker
  • RS – Right Side
  • Sl – Slip
  • Slm – Slip Marker
  • Ssk – Slip, Slip, Knit (see Special Stitches)
  • WS – Wrong Side
  • Wyib – With Yarn in Back
  • Wyif – With Yarn in Front

SPECIAL STITCHES

⭐️ Kfb (Knit Front & Back): Knit through front and back of next stitch – 1 stitch increased.

⭐️ Ssk (Slip, Slip, Knit): Slip 2 stitches, one at a time, as if to knit. Insert left hand needle into the front of these two stitches and knit them together from this position (1 stitch decreased)

PATTERN STITCHES

1 x 1 Rib

Worked circularly over an even number of sts.
Every Round: * K1, p1; repeat from * around.

Mosaic Slip Stitch Color pattern (circular)

Worked circularly over a multiple of 4 sts.Setup Round: Knit.

Change to next color.

Rounds 1–2: * K3, sl 1 wyib; repeat from * around.

Change to next color.

Rounds 3–4 (next color): * K1, sl 1 wyib, k2; repeat from * around. 

Repeat Rounds 1-4 for Mosaic Slip Stitch Color pattern, being sure ro change to the next color every 2 rounds.

Mosaic Slip Stitch Color pattern (flat)

Worked flat over a multiple of 4 sts plus 2.

Note: Hat is worked entirely in the round. The flat version of Mosaic Slip Stitch Color pattern is given here for purposes of measuring gauge.

Setup Row (WS): Purl.

Change to next color.

Row 1 (RS): K1, * k3, sl 1 wyib; repeat from * to last st, k1.

Row 2: P1, * sl 1 wyif, p3; repeat from * to last st, p1.

Change to next color.

Row 3: K1, * k1, sl 1 wyib, k2; repeat from * to last st, k1.

Row 4: P1, * p2, sl 1 wyif, p1; repeat from * to last st, p1.

Repeat Rows 1-4 for Mosaic Slip Stitch Color pattern, being sure ro change to the next color every 2 rows.

CHARTS

Mosaic Slip Stitch Color pattern, circular, 3 colors: https://www.stitchfiddle.com/en/c/sh9tcf-6n4a90

Mosaic Slip Stitch Color pattern, circular, 7 colors: https://www.stitchfiddle.com/en/c/sh9tgi-dydamq

Mosaic Slip Stitch Color pattern, flat, 3 colors: https://www.stitchfiddle.com/en/c/sh9tea-97wfuo

NOTES

  • Directions are for the smallest size; changes for larger sizes are in parentheses. When only one number is given then that number applies to all sizes.
  • Hat is worked in the round from the Brim up.
  • The Brim is worked in 1×1 Rib, then folded for a double layer.
  • A setup round increases the stitch count before the colorwork section begins.
  • Mosaic colorwork uses slip stitches, and only one color is used per round.
  • Crown shaping is fast and maintains visual rhythm.

VIDEO TUTORIALS

A woman excitedly holds colorful yarn balls on the left; on the right, a finished multicolored knit hat made with a mosaic knitting pattern. Text reads "Turn This Into This" with an arrow connecting the yarn to the hat. -Marly Bird

Pixel Pop Hat Pattern Instructions – Worsted Weight

BRIM

With Color A and circular needles, cast on 72 (84, 96, 104, 112, 116, 120, 128, 132) sts.

Place marker and join round, being careful to not twist cast-on edge.

Work in 1 x 1 Rib for 1¼ (1¼, 1½, 1½, 1½, 1¾, 2, 2, 2)” [3 (3, 4, 4, 4, 4.5, 5, 5, 5) cm].

Change to B.

Next Round: Knit.

Work in 1 x 1 Rib for the same number of rounds as in the first ribbed section, then work 2 additional rounds.

Choose which brim you want for your hat and follow those instructions

✨ Optional Single Brim

Change to A.

Next Round: Knit

Continue to the Body.

A smiling person with glasses and curly hair holds up a colorful knit hat, featuring a green brim and Mosaic Slip Stitch, wearing a denim jacket and showing off bright pink nail polish in a cozy, yarn-filled room. -Marly Bird

✨ Optional Double Brim

Fold Brim to the wrong side so the cast on row is next to the row on the needles, and join the cast on edge to the working round as follows:

Change to A.

Next Round: * Insert right needle into next st on left needle and into the corresponding cast-on st at the same time and knit these two sts together; repeat from * for each st around. 

Continue to the Body.

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BODY

Place 11 increase markers spaced as evenly as possible around needle, being sure to distinguish them from beginning-of-round marker. 

Set-Up Round: With A, * k to marker, kfb, slip marker, repeat from * to last st before beginning-of-round marker, kfb. 

Count: ​​84 (96, 108, 116, 124, 128, 132, 140, 144) sts.

Remove increase markers.

Change to next color and work in Mosaic Slip-Stitch Colorwork pattern starting with Round 1, until Hat measures 5¼ (5¾, 6¼, 7¼, 7¾, 8¼, 8¼, 8¾, 8¾)” [13.5 (14.5, 16, 18.5, 19.5, 21, 21, 22, 22) cm] from fold of Brim.

End after a Mosaic Slip-Stitch Colorwork pattern Round 4.

A colorful knit hat featuring a mosaic slip stitch geometric pattern is displayed on a woven mat, surrounded by skeins of yarn in purple, teal, green, blue, and white. -Marly Bird

CROWN SHAPING

Note: Change to double pointed needles when sts become too snug to fit around the circular.

Change to next color.

Round 1: * K3, sl 1 wyib; repeat from * around.

Round 2: * K1, ssk, sl 1 wyib; repeat from * around.

Count: 21 (24, 27, 29, 31, 32, 33, 35, 36) sts decreased

Count: 63 (72, 81, 87, 93, 96, 99, 105, 108) sts remain

Change to next color.

Round 3: * K1, sl 1 wyib, K1; repeat from * around.

Shift Marker: Remove start-of-round marker, slip 1 st, replace marker.

Round 4 (decrease round): * Sl 1 wyib, ssk; repeat from * around.

Count: 21 (24, 27, 29, 31, 32, 33, 35, 36) sts decreased

Count: 42 (48, 54, 58, 62, 64, 66, 70, 72) sts remain

Change to next color.

Round 5: * K1, sl 1 wyib; repeat from * around.

Round 6 (decrease round): * Ssk; repeat from * around.

Count: 21 (24, 27, 29, 31, 32, 33, 35, 36) sts decreased

Count: 21 (24, 27, 29, 31, 32, 33, 35, 36) sts remain

Change to next color.

Round 7: Knit.

Round 8 (decrease round): * Ssk; repeat from * to last 1 (0, 1, 1, 1, 0, 1, 1, 0) sts, k1 (0, 1, 1, 1, 0, 1, 1, 0).

Count:  10 (12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 16, 17, 18) sts decreased

Count: 11 (12, 14, 15, 16, 16, 17, 18, 18) sts remain

FINISHING

Break yarn, thread tail on tapestry needle, and draw through all remaining sts knitwise.

Pull tight like a drawstring to close.

Weave in all loose ends on WS.

Sew on optional pom pom and/or tag.

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A person wearing a colorful knit hat with a blue brim and mosaic slip stitch pattern touches the side of the hat. The person has pink nail polish and is dressed in a denim jacket. Shelves are visible in the blurred background. -Marly Bird

Are You BiCrafty? 🧶✨

If you’re both a knitter and a crocheter (what I like to call BiCrafty), you’ll be excited to know there’s also a crochet version of this hat! The Flicker and Flash Crochet Hat uses the same playful, stash-busting idea but is designed with easy crochet colorwork. So whether you knit, crochet, or do both, you can make a Pixel Pop for every head in the family.

A smiling person with glasses and curly hair holds up two colorful stash-busting knit hats with pom-poms, one green and pastel, the other blue and multicolored, each showcasing a "Marly Bird" tag. -Marly Bird

The Pixel Pop Knit Hat is proof that a little yarn can go a long way. Whether you’re pulling from your leftovers to create a one-of-a-kind stash-busting knitting project, or planning a perfectly coordinated color palette, this hat is equal parts practical and playful. With its folded brim, bold mosaic design, and easy slip-stitch technique, it’s the kind of project that looks advanced but is totally achievable—even if this is your first colorwork hat.

I can’t wait to see the color combos you choose! Be sure to share your Pixel Pop Knit Hat on social media and tag me @themarlybird with hashtags #MarlyBird and #MMMDI (Marly Made Me Do It) so we can cheer each other on.

And don’t stop here—if you loved this design, be sure to check out my other free knitting patterns for even more stash-busting inspiration. After all, the best projects are the ones that bring joy to your needles, your wardrobe, and your yarn shelves. 💕

❤️ Your BiCrafty Bestie,
Marly Bird

A cartoon avatar of a person with glasses and a brown bun smiles warmly. Their green shirt and black jacket add a stylish touch, while colorful hearts surround them like loving temperature blankets, stitching together an aura of love and positivity. -Marly Bird

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Pixel Pop Knit Hat?

The Pixel Pop is a free mosaic slip stitch colorwork knit hat pattern by Marly Bird. It uses a bold, modern pixel-inspired geometric design worked in two colors using simple slip stitch techniques… so you only ever work with one color per row, making it way more approachable than traditional stranded colorwork. It was the featured knitting pattern in Marly's “This or That Make-Along 2025” stash-busting event.

What skill level is the Pixel Pop Hat?

It's designed for advanced beginners and beyond… if you're comfortable knitting in the round and reading a simple chart, you're ready. Mosaic/slip stitch colorwork is genuinely one of the most beginner-friendly ways to do colorwork knitting because you're only working one yarn at a time. No carrying floats, no managing two strands simultaneously. Just knit and slip. The geometric pattern is clear and satisfying to work through.

What makes mosaic slip stitch colorwork different from Fair Isle?

In Fair Isle (stranded colorwork), you carry both colors across every row and knit with each as needed. Mosaic or slip stitch colorwork uses just ONE color per row… stitches from the other color are slipped (passed without knitting) to create the pattern. This makes it significantly simpler to manage. No floats, no tangled yarns, no tension issues from carrying yarn across the back. Same beautiful geometric effect, much simpler execution. It's a fantastic gateway to colorwork knitting.

What yarn should I use for the Pixel Pop Hat?

Worsted weight yarn in two colors with good contrast is the way to go. The pixel pattern needs a clear light-dark distinction for the design to read crisply. A smooth, plied yarn gives you the best stitch definition so those geometric shapes pop. Wool or a wool blend is ideal for a hat… it's warm, blocks nicely, and has good elasticity. But a smooth acrylic works too and gives you a machine-washable finished hat.

Can I make the Pixel Pop Hat in any colors?

Yes! The pattern is flexible with color choices as long as you maintain good contrast between your two colors. Classic combinations like cream and navy, black and white, or a neutral with a bold pop color all look stunning. The pixel-inspired design means almost any two-color combo with sufficient contrast works… the geometric pattern does the work. This is a great opportunity to use up leftover worsted weight from your stash.

This or That Make-Along 2025: Free Knit & Crochet Hat Patterns for Stash-Busting Fun

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Are you ready for a weekend filled with fun, creativity, and stash-busting magic? The This or That Make-Along 2025 is here, and YOU are invited! Whether you’re Team Knit or Team Crochet, there’s a free hat pattern waiting just for you.

A smiling person wears a multicolored beanie on the left labeled "crochet" and on the right labeled "knit"; “this make-along that” appears between them. Snowflake designs accent the background, celebrating stash-busting Knit & Crochet Hat Patterns. -Marly Bird

Join thousands of yarn lovers on August 30–31, 2025 as we make hats together—your choice of either the Pixel Pop Knit Hat or the Flicker and Flash Crochet Hat. It’s two days of quick makes, community fun, and clearing out your yarn bin with something cozy and colorful!

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. To learn more please visit my privacy policy here💖

🧺 Past Marly Bird Make-Alongs = Plenty of Leftover Yarn!

If you’ve been part of the Marly Bird community for a while, chances are you’ve joined one (or more!) of our exciting make-alongs. From Game Day Mystery Make-Alongs, to Turkey Trot, to Christmas in July Sleigh the Holidays, to our fun seasonal events like the Tournament of Stitches—we’ve made it all together!

And if you’re like most makers, those projects probably left you with a little (or a lot!) of leftover yarn tucked away in your stash. Instead of letting those skeins sit in the basket or bin, why not put them to work?

A smiling person with curly hair and glasses holds a large bundle of colorful yarn balls, wearing a green top—ready for the This or That Make-Along 2025—while sitting indoors with blurred background furniture. -Marly Bird

The This or That Make-Along 2025 is designed to be stash-friendly. With patterns that shine using 2 or more colors of worsted (or sport) weight yarn, you can mix and match those leftovers from past events into something brand new.

✨ Time to pull out that extra yarn and transform it into a Pixel Pop Knit Hat or a Flicker and Flash Crochet Hat. You’ll clear out space in your stash and end up with a cozy accessory you’ll be proud to wear!

🎉 Free Knit & Crochet Hat Patterns for the Make-Along

During this 2-day event, you can choose between two brand-new stash-busting hat patterns (patterns will be released on first day of event):

🧣 Pixel Pop Knit Hat (Free Knitting Pattern)

The Pixel Pop Knit Hat is a bold and modern stranded colorwork knitting pattern designed for advanced beginners and beyond. Worked in worsted weight yarn, this hat uses simple colorwork techniques to create striking designs. It’s a quick weekend knit, perfect for using up yarn scraps while practicing stranded knitting.

🎉 Add to your Favorites on Ravelry and Queue it up!

⭐️ Free Pixel Pop Knit Hat Pattern Here

CLICK HERE FOR FREE KNIT PATTERN
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A smiling person wears a colorful stash-busting knit hat with a fluffy white pom-pom, blue brim, and "Wooly BIRD" label. They're dressed in a denim jacket. -Marly Bird
  • Skills: Advanced beginner knitting pattern, stranded colorwork
  • Written in nine sizes: 0–3 mo, 3–6 mo, 6–12 mo, 1–3 yr, 3–5 yr, 6–10 yr, Teen/Adult S, Adult M, Adult L.
  • Yarn: Worsted weight yarn (sport weight included in paid version)
  • Format: Written instructions + colorwork charts
  • Perfect for: Anyone who loves a modern knit hat pattern that works up fast!

✨ Flicker and Flash Crochet Hat (Free Crochet Pattern)

The Flicker and Flash Crochet Hat is a stunning long double crochet hat pattern worked in the round. Designed for adventurous beginners and intermediate crocheters, it uses simple colorwork to achieve a striking effect without the fuss of carrying multiple strands per round.

🎉 Add to your Favorites on Ravelry and Queue it up!

✨ Free Flicker and Flash Crochet Hat Pattern

Click Here for Free Crochet Pattern
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A smiling woman in a green and white knit hat with a pom-pom and a "Yarny Bird" label poses cheerfully indoors, wearing a denim jacket—her cozy look is perfect for showing off stash-busting knit hat patterns. -Marly Bird
  • Skills: Long double crochet colorwork in the round
  • Written in nine sizes: 0–3 mo, 3–6 mo, 6–12 mo, 1–3 yr, 3–5 yr, 6–10 yr, Teen/Adult S, Adult M, Adult L.
  • Yarn: Sport Weight yarn (worsted weight included in paid version)
  • Format: Written instructions + stitch diagrams
  • Perfect for: Crocheters who want a stash-busting project that feels fun and fresh

🧶 Supplies You’ll Need for the This or That Make-Along

Make sure you’re ready before the event begins! Gather your supplies and get ready to have some fun!

Yarn

  • Weight:
    • Worsted weight yarn for the knit free version; sport weight included in the ad-free PDF
    • Sport weight yarn for the crochet free version; worsted weight included in the ad-free PDF
  • Colors: Use 2 or more colors from your stash—this is a stash-busting event after all!

Hooks & Needles

  • Knitters: US 8 (5.0 mm) circular needles (16″) + DPNs or your favorite method for small circumference; or size to obtain gauge.
  • Crocheters: US H/8 (5.0 mm) or I/9 (5.5 mm) hooks; or size to obtain gauge.

Notions

👉 Looking for stash-friendly yarn substitutions? Check out the stash-busting yarn ideas on MarlyBird.com.

Gauge

  • Knitting (Worsted Weight Yarn): 20 sts 32 rows = 4″ [10 cm] in mosaic stitch pattern
  • Crochet (Sport Weight Yarn): 15 sts and 16 rows = 4″ [10 cm] in long double crochet stitch pattern
Two images of a smiling woman in colorful winter hats with pom-poms—one labeled "knit" and the other "crochet." Decorative text, snowflake accents, and inspiration for stash-busting knit hat patterns on a light background. -Marly Bird

🎁 Upgrade to the Ad-Free PDF Pattern

Want to skip the ads and enjoy a beautifully formatted pattern? The ad-free PDF includes:

  • Instructions for both Worsted + Sport weight yarn
  • Easy-to-follow written instructions
  • Exclusive Access to videos instructions in Vimeo (no more video ads!)
  • Charts (knit) & stitch diagrams (crochet)
  • Access inside the Marly Bird House with unlimited viewing

📌 Get the Pixel Pop Knit Hat PDF – Regular Price $10, Limited Time Only $7.50
📌 Get the Flicker and Flash Crochet Hat PDF – Regular Price $10, Limited Time Only $7.50

Text graphic on a blue background reads: "TODAY'S PRICE = $7.50" with "$7.50" in red and the rest in white with a light blue outline, promoting the This or That Make-Along 2025 event. -Marly Bird

✨ Go Bigger: The Full Stash-Busting Pattern Collection

For just $12, grab the Stash-Busting Pattern Collection Marly Bird House upgrade and get:

  • 5 BONUS stash-busting patterns hand-picked by Marly
  • ⭐️ BONUS ⭐️ Exclusive access to the Marly Bird Color Companion GPT — upload a photo of your yarn and get curated color palette suggestions with hex codes!
  • Everything in the Marly Bird House for your convenience.

💼 Upgrade only available with paid pattern purchase!

A promotional poster for "the stash busting pattern collection," featuring photos of a smiling woman wearing colorful knit items, a website screenshot, and text about a bonus Marly Bird Color Companion GPT and the This or That Make-Along 2025. -Marly Bird
A colorful flyer promotes a stash busting pattern collection upgrade for the This or That Make-Along 2025, featuring photos of a woman in vibrant knitted hats and scarves. A computer screen shows the Marly Bird Color Companion GPT bonus. Text is bright and playful. -Marly Bird

🎥 Video Tutorials Included

Each pattern comes with step-by-step video tutorials released during the event! Perfect if you’re a visual learner or just want company while you stitch.

Tutorial links will be:

  • Added to the free pattern blog post once live (YouTube + Ads)
  • Included inside the Marly Bird House for paid users (Vimeo + NO Ads)

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to sign up for the This or That Make-Along 2025?
Yes, signup required for the free version—fill out the form below to have the information sent directly to your inbox when the event starts on August 30–31, 2025.

Are the patterns beginner-friendly?
Yes! The knit hat is designed for advanced beginners learning stranded colorwork. The crochet hat uses long double colorwork, making it a great choice for adventurous beginners or intermediates.

Can I use yarn from my stash?
Absolutely! This is a stash-busting event, so dig into your yarn bin and pick two or more colors to play with.

A smiling woman with glasses and curly hair stands beside shelves filled with colorful yarn skeins. She wears a green "books & yarn" shirt and gestures to the yarn with a "My Stash" text overlayed, ready for the This or That Make-Along 2025. -Marly Bird

How do I choose colors to use for colorwork?
Visit the How to Choose Colors on MarlyBird.com for more ideas to use up leftover yarn.

When are the patterns available?
Both of the patterns will be released on the blog and in the Marly Bird House NOW!

A smiling person with glasses and curly hair holds up two colorful stash-busting knit hats with pom-poms, one green and pastel, the other blue and multicolored, each showcasing a "Marly Bird" tag. -Marly Bird

🧶 Final Thoughts

The This or That Make-Along 2025 is the perfect way to wrap up summer with a quick, satisfying project. Whether you’re knitting the Pixel Pop Hat or crocheting the Flicker and Flash Hat, you’ll finish the weekend with a colorful, stash-busting project you’ll love to wear.

Mark your calendar for August 30–31, 2025, and get ready for a fun, community-driven event with Marly Bird!

❤️ Your BiCrafty Bestie,
Marly Bird

A cartoon avatar of a person with glasses and a brown bun smiles warmly. Their green shirt and black jacket add a stylish touch, while colorful hearts surround them like loving temperature blankets, stitching together an aura of love and positivity. -Marly Bird

Roy G. Biv – Free Long Color Changing Yarn Knit Hat Pattern

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If you’ve been holding onto that skein of gorgeous long color-changing yarn and waiting for the perfect project—this is it! The Roy G. Biv – Free Long Color Changing Yarn Knit Hat Pattern is simple, colorful, and oh-so-satisfying. With a double brim for extra warmth and an embossed chevron design made from purls, this hat lets the yarn do all the work.

No complicated stitch patterns. No fussy color changes. Just pure knitting joy that shows off those smooth gradients in all their glory.

And yes—if you can knit and purl, you can make this hat!

A woman in glasses and a denim jacket presents a colorful knit hat with a pom-pom. The image features her wearing the hat, surrounded by gorgeous yarn skeins labeled “Roll With It,” plus “One Ball Hat Project” and “Free Pattern!” text. -Marly Bird

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. To learn more please visit my privacy policy here💖

Why This Hat is Perfect for Long Color-Changing Yarn 🧶

Not all yarn color changes are created equal. Let’s break it down:

Long Color-Changing Yarn

Variegated Yarn

  • Colors change every few inches, often creating a speckled or mottled look.
  • Can be stunning but sometimes hides textured stitch patterns or creates pooling.
  • Great examples:

For the Roy G. Biv Hat, long color-changing yarn works best—you’ll see each hue shine through those embossed chevrons without distraction.

Smiling person in glasses and a denim jacket wears a colorful Roy G Biv Knit Hat. Text reads "One Ball Hat Project," "Free Pattern!", Marly Bird logo, with images of gorgeous yarn balls and a circular knitting project on a blue background. -Marly Bird

Love Gradient Yarn? Try These Free Patterns Too

Roy G Biv Easy Knit Hat Pattern – Details

Skill Level

Easy – Must know how to knit, purl, work in the round, and use a provisional cast-on (video linked below).

Finished Measurements

Circumference (unstretched)

  • Child: 19″ (48 cm)
  • Adult Small: 22″ (56 cm) – original size
  • Adult Large: 24″ (61 cm)

Height (without pom-pom)

  • Child: 8.5″ (21.5 cm)
  • Adult Small: 10″ (25.5 cm)
  • Adult Large: 10.75″ (27 cm)

Gauge

18 sts x 23.5 rows = 4″ (10 cm) in Stockinette Stitch

A smiling woman showcases a colorful knit hat with a pom-pom, made from gorgeous yarn. Yarn balls are nearby. Text reads “Free Pattern! One Ball Hat Project.” The woman models the knit hat, wearing glasses and a denim jacket. -Marly Bird
Favorite This Pattern on Ravelry - Marly Bird

Materials

Yarn – Worsted weight, long color-changing or variegated yarn

Needles

  • US 5 (3.75 mm), US 7 (4.5 mm) 16” circular needles
  • US 8 (5 mm) 16” circular needles and set of 5 DPNs
  • Or size needed to obtain gauge

Hook – US H (5 mm) for provisional cast-on

Notions

Smiling person in glasses and denim jacket holds a colorful knit hat with a pom-pom. Text reads “One Ball Hat Project” and “Free Pattern!” Gorgeous yarn skeins and the Marly Bird logo are shown at the bottom. -Marly Bird

Abbreviations

Learn more about knitting definitions and help — Great Information for Your Back Pocket!

(Standard American knitting terms)
BO – Bind Off
CO – Cast On
DPN – Double Pointed Needle
K – Knit
P – Purl
pm – place marker
Sl – Slip
St st – Stockinette Stitch
st(s) – stitches
Tbl – Through the back loop
YO – Yarn Over

Special Stitches & Tutorials

Provisional Cast-On Method – Video Tutorial

M1 (Make 1 Increase) – Insert left needle under the horizontal strand between st just worked and next st, from the front to the back, knit through the back loop.

How to Add a Lifeline to Knitting – Watch Here

Pom Pom Making – Watch Here

Pattern Notes

  • Hat is worked in the round from the brim up.
  • Double brim construction keeps ears extra warm—can be shortened for a single brim.
  • The embossed chevron is created with purl stitches.

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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.

A smiling woman with glasses holds up a colorful knit hat with a pom-pom. Text reads "One Ball Hat Project," "Free Pattern!" and shows Red Heart gorgeous yarn skeins and the Marly Bird logo on a blue background. -Marly Bird

Roy G. Biv Knit Hat – Full Written Free Pattern

Brim

Using scrap yarn and US 7 circulars, provisional CO:

  • Child: 88 sts
  • Adult Small: 100 sts
  • Adult Large: 108 sts

Work 1×1 rib (K1, P1) until brim measures:

  • Child: 3.5″
  • Adult Small: 4″
  • Adult Large: 4″

Remove provisional cast-on and place live stitches on smaller needle. Fold brim in half to the inside, aligning one stitch from each needle. Knit together (1 st from each needle) around.

Body Setup & Increases

Switch to larger circulars and increase:

  • Child: K8, M1 – 96 sts
  • Adult Small: K10, M1 – 110 sts
  • Adult Large: K10, M1 – 120 sts

Place marker for round start.

Begin Chevron Pattern

Follow the 38-round embossed chevron sequence as in original pattern, adjusting knit sections evenly for size.

Knitting chart for the "Roy G. Biv Knit Hat" by Marly Bird, showing a simple pattern with chevron lace. Features symbols for knit, purl, yarn over, decreases, and no stitch—plus a key to guide you while using your gorgeous yarn. -Marly Bird
A person with red nail polish holds up a Roy G Biv Knit Hat, made from gorgeous yarn, while wearing a denim jacket over a pink and gray striped shirt. The cozy indoor background features plants and shelves. -Marly Bird

Crown Shaping

Child Size (96 stitches)

Round 1: *Knit 8, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 87 stitches.
Round 2: Knit around.
Round 3: *Knit 7, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 78 stitches.
Round 4: Knit around.
Round 5: *Knit 6, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 69 stitches.
Round 6: Knit around.
Round 7: *Knit 5, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 60 stitches.
Round 8: Knit around.
Round 9: *Knit 4, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 51 stitches.
Round 10: Knit around.
Round 11: *Knit 3, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 42 stitches.
Round 12: Knit around.
Round 13: *Knit 2, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 33 stitches.
Round 14: Knit around.
Round 15: *Knit 1, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 24 stitches.
Round 16: Knit around.
Round 17: *Knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 12 stitches.
Round 18: Knit around.
Round 19: *Knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 6 stitches.

Cut yarn, leaving a 10” tail. Thread tail through remaining stitches, pull tight to close, and secure on the wrong side.

Adult Small Size (110 stitches) (original pattern)

Round 1: *Knit 9, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 99 stitches.
Round 2: Knit around.
Round 3: *Knit 8, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 88 stitches.
Round 4: Knit around.
Round 5: *Knit 7, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 77 stitches.
Round 6: Knit around.
Round 7: *Knit 6, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 66 stitches.
Round 8: Knit around.
Round 9: *Knit 5, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 55 stitches.
Round 10: Knit around. (Switch to double pointed needles if needed)
Round 11: *Knit 4, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 44 stitches.
Round 12: Knit around.
Round 13: *Knit 3, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 33 stitches.
Round 14: Knit around.
Round 15: *Knit 2, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 22 stitches.
Round 16: Knit around.
Round 17: *Knit 1, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 11 stitches.

Cut yarn, leaving a 10” tail. Thread tail through remaining stitches, pull tight to close, and secure on the wrong side.

Adult Large Size (120 stitches)

Round 1: *Knit 10, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 110 stitches.
Round 2: Knit around.
Round 3: *Knit 9, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 100 stitches.
Round 4: Knit around.
Round 5: *Knit 8, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 90 stitches.
Round 6: Knit around.
Round 7: *Knit 7, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 80 stitches.
Round 8: Knit around.
Round 9: *Knit 6, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 70 stitches.
Round 10: Knit around. (Switch to double pointed needles if needed)
Round 11: *Knit 5, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 60 stitches.
Round 12: Knit around.
Round 13: *Knit 4, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 50 stitches.
Round 14: Knit around.
Round 15: *Knit 3, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 40 stitches.
Round 16: Knit around.
Round 17: *Knit 2, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 30 stitches.
Round 18: Knit around.
Round 19: *Knit 1, knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 20 stitches.
Round 20: Knit around.
Round 21: *Knit 2 together; repeat from * to end of round – 10 stitches.

Cut yarn, leaving a 10” tail. Thread tail through remaining stitches, pull tight to close, and secure on the wrong side.

Finishing

Cut yarn, leaving 10” tail. Thread tail through remaining stitches, cinch tight, and weave in ends. Wash and block if desired. Add pom-pom for extra fun.

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Love this free hat pattern? Pin it to your knitting board and share with your yarn friends! Favorite this project on Ravelry!

Collage showing a woman wearing and displaying a colorful knit hat with a pom-pom, made from gorgeous yarn. The images promote a free "One Ball Hat Pattern" using Red Heart Roll With It Melange yarn by Marly Bird. -Marly Bird

The Roy G. Biv Knit Hat is proof that sometimes the simplest knitting is the most satisfying—especially when you’ve got yarn that’s already doing the heavy lifting in the color department. Whether you go for a bold rainbow, a soft ombré, or a dramatic gradient, this pattern will show it off beautifully.

It’s a great stash-busting project, a fantastic beginner-friendly hat, and a relaxing knit for seasoned stitchers who just want something colorful and meditative. Plus, the double brim means your ears will thank you on those blustery days.

So grab that skein you’ve been saving for “something special” and get knitting—your Roy G. Biv Hat will be off the needles and onto your head in no time. 🧶💖

❤️ Your BiCrafty Bestie,
Marly Bird

A cartoon avatar of a person with glasses and a brown bun smiles warmly. Their green shirt and black jacket add a stylish touch, while colorful hearts surround them like loving temperature blankets, stitching together an aura of love and positivity. -Marly Bird

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Roy G. Biv Knit Hat?

Roy G. Biv (Red Orange Yellow Green Blue Indigo Violet… the classic rainbow mnemonic!) is a free knit hat pattern by Marly Bird designed to showcase long color-changing yarn. The hat is a rainbow celebration… each color of the spectrum appears in sequence as the self-striping yarn progresses around the hat. The pattern is specifically designed to work beautifully with long-color-change yarns where each stripe color gets enough rows to really show before transitioning to the next. It's a joyful, vibrant hat pattern.

What is long color-changing yarn?

Long color-changing yarn transitions through colors very gradually over a large length of yarn… instead of stripe-width color changes, you get gentle ombre-style transitions or long sections of each color. These yarns are designed so that when knit in a project, each color gets enough rows to show clearly before the next color appears. They're often marketed for shawls and larger accessories where you can see the full color progression. For this hat pattern, the long color changes create neat horizontal stripes in each rainbow color.

What yarn weight and hook/needle size does this pattern use?

Check the pattern materials section for specifics! Long color-changing yarns come in various weights. For a hat, a worsted weight that works up efficiently while showing clear stripes is typical. The gauge determines how many rows each color section covers, which affects how well the rainbow reads… too many rows per color (loose gauge) and colors may blend; too few rows (tight gauge) and each color may be too narrow to read clearly. Swatch with your specific yarn to see how the color transitions interact with your gauge.

Can I use regular striped yarn instead of long color-changing?

You can, but the effect will be different! Regular self-striping yarn with shorter color sections creates narrower stripes and a different stripe rhythm than long color-changing yarn. For a true rainbow hat where each color has several clear rows, you want yarn specifically designed with long color sections. If you use short-repeat striping yarn, the rainbow colors will cycle multiple times around the hat rather than appearing once each. Both are beautiful… just different effects. Choose the yarn based on the specific rainbow effect you want.

How long does this hat take to knit?

A basic worsted weight hat takes most knitters 2-4 hours. The color-changing aspect adds visual excitement that makes the knitting feel faster than a plain hat! Watching each new color emerge is genuinely motivating. This is an excellent “movie night” hat… settle in with a good film, start from the cast-on, and you might just have a finished rainbow hat by the credits. Great for gift knitting too since the rainbow theme makes it universal and joyful.