The Bashful Hat: A Free Knit Lace Slouchy Pattern You’ll Reach For Every Season
The Bashful Knit Lace Slouchy Hat is a free knitting pattern by Marly Bird, featuring a gorgeous 10-row lace pattern and a beautiful slouchy silhouette. Worked bottom-up on circular needles in luxurious DK weight merino-silk yarn, this Adventurous Beginner pattern comes in three sizes (S, M, L) — and the full pattern, including written instructions and stitch charts, is free right here on the blog.
⚡ Quick Answer:
The Bashful Knit Hat is a free lace knitting pattern by Marly Bird, designed for the Adventurous Beginner knitter. Worked bottom-up in DK weight merino-silk yarn (Universal Yarns Eden Silk), this hat comes in sizes S (M, L) with a delicate 10-row lace body and a 1×1 ribbed brim. The full pattern — including written instructions, stitch charts, and video tutorials — is free right here on the blog, or grab the ad-free PDF on Etsy, Shopify, or Ravelry.
Hey, bestie 💛
I have a serious soft spot for slouchy hats… there's something about that gentle slouch at the back of your head that just feels cozy and effortless. And when you pair that slouchy shape with a delicate lace pattern? That's when magic happens. The Bashful Knit Lace Slouchy Hat is my love letter to spring and fall hats that actually look like you put thought into them…
Why You'll Love This Bashful Knit Hat 💖
Lace knitting is one of the most rewarding skills in the knitter's toolbox… and a slouchy hat is the perfect canvas to show off lace's delicate magic. The Bashful pattern gives you that lace-crown moment without overwhelming beginners who are new to openwork.
This hat works up quickly enough to gift or test-drive during spring and early fall… but cozy enough to grab every season. The slouchy silhouette means it fits beautifully whether you have a smaller frame or like your hats roomy and relaxed.
You'll come away knowing: how to read a lace chart, how to shift stitches for a crown decrease, and why blocking is non-negotiable for lace. Those skills carry into shawls, blankets, and every lace project ahead…
Quick Pattern Overview
The Bashful Knit Hat is worked from the brim up in the round — you start with a simple 1×1 ribbed brim, work increase rounds to set up the lace stitch count, then knit the lace body, and finish with beautiful crown decreases that shape the top. Three sizes (S, M, L) mean you can cast on for your head circumference and knit to fit.
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What Makes Lace Knitting Special ✨
Lace knitting sounds intimidating… but the secret is this: you're just making intentional holes. Yarn overs create the openwork, decreases shape it, and blocking transforms a slightly crumpled flat piece into something ethereal.
One of the best tools in a lace knitter's toolkit is the lifeline — a strand of yarn or thread threaded through a complete round that becomes your safety net. If you drop a stitch or need to rip back, your lifeline stops the damage.
Blocking is absolutely essential for lace. Wet blocking (soaking the finished hat in cool water with a bit of wool wash, then pinning it to shape and letting it dry) opens up the lace stitches and creates that airy, intentional look. Without blocking, even perfect lace can look dense and bumpy…
How to Get the Perfect Slouchy Fit 👒
A slouchy hat is all about fit preference… some knitters love a dramatic slouch that drapes halfway down the back, while others prefer a subtle gather. The Bashful pattern works for both… the three size options (S, M, L) plus the adjustable nature of lace blocking give you plenty of room to dial in your perfect fit.
Measure a hat you already love wearing. Grab your tape measure and check the finished circumference at the brim — that's your target. The Bashful comes in three sizes — Small, Medium, and Large. Finished brim circumference is 16 (18, 20)” [40.5 (45.5, 51) cm] before blocking, and the hat height is 8¼ (8¼, 9¾)” [21 (21, 25) cm]. Start with the size closest to your actual head circumference… the lace will grow slightly at blocking.
The amount of slouch comes from the difference between your head circumference and the hat's finished circumference. Cozy fit means 2-4 inches of positive ease; slouchy means 4-6+ inches. The Bashful is designed with slight negative ease before blocking — lace grows when you wet block it, and you want a snug fit right off the needles. Swatch, block your swatch, and measure carefully before casting on…
Yarn & Materials
The Bashful Knit Hat was designed in Universal Yarns Eden Silk — a dreamy 75% merino wool / 25% silk DK weight yarn (153 yds / 140 m per 50 g skein). Silk adds a beautiful drape and subtle sheen that makes lace truly sing… and merino gives it warmth and easy-care properties. The colorway shown is #02 Blush — that soft, rosy pink that gives this hat its name.
How much do you need?
• Small: 1 skein (153 yds / 140 m)
• Medium: 2 skeins (306 yds / 280 m)
• Large: 2 skeins (306 yds / 280 m)
Important Blocking & Fit Note
Lace can grow significantly during blocking, and the amount of stretch will vary depending on the yarn and fiber content you are using. Be sure to take this into consideration when choosing your needle size and planning your finished fit.
If your swatch grows more than expected after blocking, or you prefer a less slouchy finished piece, it is perfectly acceptable to go down one or even two needle sizes. The goal is to achieve a blocked fabric and finished measurement that works for your preferred fit.
Always measure your gauge after blocking, since the blocked measurement is the best indication of how the finished piece will behave.
Needles & Notions
Yarn Alternatives
Can't find Universal Yarns Eden Silk? No problem… here are some gorgeous DK weight merino and merino-silk alternatives that will give you the same beautiful drape and lace definition:
The key for this hat is a smooth, drapey DK weight yarn (CYCA #3) with merino wool — the softness matters because you're wearing this against your head, and merino is the gold standard for next-to-skin comfort. Silk is a gorgeous bonus for drape and sheen, but pure merino will work beautifully too…
🧶 Option 1 — Merino-Silk DK: That same silk sheen Eden Silk is known for, in DK weight. Dreamy drape and a subtle luminosity that takes lace to another level. Shop this option →
🧶 Option 2 — Superwash Merino DK: Buttery soft, machine-washable, and in a rainbow of gorgeous colors. Great stitch definition means your lace will pop. Shop this option →
🧶 Option 3 — Loops & Threads Luxe Merino Solid (Michaels): 100% merino DK at a budget-friendly price point you can pick up in person. Soft, smooth, and holds lace beautifully. Shop at Michaels →
🧶 Option 4 — Rico Design Luxury Merino Supercash DK (Michaels): A cashmere-merino blend that takes lace to a whole new level of softness and elegance. Available at Michaels. Shop at Michaels →
🧶 Option 5 — Classic DK Merino: A reliable DK weight merino with great stitch definition and a wide color range. The kind of yarn that never lets you down. Shop this option →
🧶 Option 6 — DK Merino Blend: Another excellent merino DK with lovely drape. Works beautifully with lace patterns and blocks like a dream. Shop this option →
🧶 Option 7 — Premium Merino DK: Beautifully dyed, incredible hand, and that soft merino feel you love. Takes color gorgeously. Shop this option →
🧶 Option 8 — Cotton-Blend DK: For a lighter, breezier version of this hat… perfect for warmer climates or spring wear. Cotton tip from Marly: knit one size smaller than gauge (or go down a needle size), and allow blocking to bring it to the right dimensions. The cotton doesn't have the same elasticity as wool, so adding a bit of elastic to the brim is also a great option! Shop this option →
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Bashful Knit Lace Slouchy Hat || Pattern Details
Skill Level
You're comfortable with knit and purl, and you've worked in the round before. This pattern introduces a 10-row lace repeat with yarn overs and centered decreases — but it's charted AND written, so you have two ways to follow along. A lifeline every repeat or two keeps you confident while you practice!
Finished Measurements
Brim Circumference: 16 (18, 20)” [40.5 (45.5, 51) cm]
Hat Height: 8¼ (8¼, 9¾)” [21 (21, 25) cm]
Note: Lace can grow significantly during blocking — the finished measurements above are post-blocking. Always measure after blocking your gauge swatch!
Gauge
15 sts = 2½” [6.5 cm] in Lace Pattern before blocking, slightly stretched.
15 sts = 3″ [7.5 cm] in Lace Pattern after blocking.
Always swatch and block your swatch before casting on — lace gauge changes significantly after blocking!
Gauge is critical in lace. Make a swatch, wash it like you'll wash the hat, and measure it carefully…
Materials Summary
Yarn: Universal Yarns Eden Silk (75% Merino Wool, 25% Silk — 153 yds / 140 m per 1¾ oz / 50 g skein — DK weight CYCA #3)
• 1 (2, 2) skeins — Color: #02 Blush
Needles:
• US 7 [4.5 mm] 16″ [40.5 cm] circular needle
• Set of 5 double-pointed needles (US 7 [4.5 mm]) — or size required to achieve gauge
Notions:
• Stitch markers
• Tapestry needle
• Scissors
• Leather tag + rivets (optional)
• Tape measure
Abbreviations
BC – Baby Cable (see Cable Stitches)
CDD – Center Double Decrease (see Special Stitches)
K – Knit
Kfb – Knit Front & Back (see Special Stitches)
K2tog – Knit 2 Together
P – Purl
P2tog – Purl 2 Together
RS – Right Side
S3k2tog – Slip 3, K2tog, Pass (see Special Stitches)
Ssk – Slip, Slip, Knit (see Special Stitches)
St(s) – Stitch(es)
Yo – Yarn Over
Special Stitches
⭐ Center Double Decrease (CDD): Slip next 2 stitches knitwise at the same time, knit next stitch, pass slipped stitches over — 2 stitches decreased.
⭐ Knit Front & Back (Kfb): Knit through the front and back of the next stitch — 1 stitch increased.
⭐ Slip, Slip, Knit (Ssk): Slip 2 stitches one at a time as if to knit. Insert left needle into the front of these 2 stitches and knit them together — 1 stitch decreased.
⭐ Slip 3, K2tog, Pass (S3k2tog): Slip next 3 stitches knitwise one at a time, k2tog, pass 3 slipped stitches over the k2tog stitch — 4 stitches decreased.
⭐ BC (Baby Cable): Knit 2 stitches together, leaving them on the left needle without dropping off. Knit into the first stitch again, then slip both stitches off the left needle.
Stitch Patterns
1 x 1 Rib (circular)
Worked in the round over an even number of sts.
Every round: * K1, p1; repeat from * around.
Lace Pattern (circular)
Worked in the round over a multiple of 15 sts.
Round 1: * P1, BC (see Cable Stitches), p1, yo, k4, CDD, k4, yo; repeat from * around.
Round 2: * P1, k2, p1, k11; repeat from * around.
Round 3: * P1, BC, p1, k1, yo, k3, CDD, k3, yo, k1; repeat from * around.
Round 4: * P1, k2, p1, k11; repeat from * around.
Round 5: * P1, BC, p1, k2, yo, k2, CDD, k2, yo, k2; repeat from * around.
Round 6: * P1, k2, p1, k11; repeat from * around.
Round 7: * P1, BC, p1, k3, yo, k1, CDD, k1, yo, k3; repeat from * around.
Round 8: * P1, k2, p1, k11; repeat from * around.
Round 9: * P1, BC, p1, k4, yo, CDD, yo, k4; repeat from * around.
Round 10: * P1, k2, p1, k11; repeat from * around.
Repeat Rounds 1-10 for Lace Pattern (circular).
Chart: https://www.stitchfiddle.com/en/c/son6if-42h646
Lace Pattern (flat)
Worked over a multiple of 15 sts plus 1.
Note: Hat is worked entirely in the round. The flat version of Lace Pattern is given here for the purposes of measuring gauge only.
Row 1 (RS): * P1, BC (see Cable Stitches), p1, yo, k4, CDD, k4, yo; repeat from * to last st, p1.
Row 2: K1, * p11, k1, p2, k1; repeat from * to end.
Row 3: * P1, BC, p1, k1, yo, k3, CDD, k3, yo, k1; repeat from * to last st, p1.
Row 4: K1, * p11, k1, p2, k1; repeat from * to end.
Row 5: * P1, BC, p1, k2, yo, k2, CDD, k2, yo, k2; repeat from * to last st, p1.
Row 6: K1, * p11, k1, p2, k1; repeat from * to end.
Row 7: * P1, BC, p1, k3, yo, k1, CDD, k1, yo, k3; repeat from * to last st, p1.
Row 8: K1, * p11, k1, p2, k1; repeat from * to end.
Row 9: * P1, BC, p1, k4, yo, CDD, yo, k4; repeat from * to last st, p1.
Row 10: K1, * p11, k1, p2, k1; repeat from * to end.
Repeat Rows 1-10 for Lace Pattern (flat).
Chart: https://www.stitchfiddle.com/en/c/son6h8-8327m5
Notes
Directions are for size S; changes for sizes M & L are in parentheses. When only one number is given, it applies to all sizes.
This hat is worked from the bottom up in the round, featuring a simple 1×1 ribbed brim, an increase round to set up the lace stitch count, and an elegant 10-row lace pattern body — all worked in the round on circular needles. Crown shaping switches to double-pointed needles.
Blocking Note: Lace can grow significantly during blocking, and some yarns stretch more than others. Plan accordingly when choosing your needle size. If needed, go down 1–2 needle sizes to achieve a blocked measurement and fit that is not too slouchy.
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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.
Love the Pattern but Want an Ad-Free PDF? ⭐
The free pattern is right here on the blog, forever. But if you'd rather stitch without interruptions — or want the pattern formatted for print — you can grab the ad-free PDF and support Marly's work at the same time…
Get ad-free PDF versions of this pattern on your favorite platform:
Bashful Knit Lace Slouchy Hat || Pattern Instructions
Cut yarn, leaving a 12″ [30.5 cm] tail.
Use tapestry needle to slide tail through all remaining sts, then pull tight like a drawstring.
Thread yarn to inside and secure.
FINISHING
Weave in all loose ends.
Wash and Block Your Bashful Hat
Wet blocking is like sending your yarn on a spa retreat… it's the process where your yarn unwinds, enjoys a soothing cleanse, and settles gracefully into its final form, allowing its true beauty to flourish.
Here's how to pamper your finished Bashful hat:
1. Submerge your hat in a basin of cool water. Add a splash of Eucalan wool wash (no-rinse formula is easiest!) to gently clean and condition the fibers.
2. Remove as much water as you can without twisting or wringing… press against the sink, gently squeeze between your palms. Always support the whole hat when lifting so nothing stretches out of shape.
3. Lay on a large towel, fold the ends over, and roll it up burrito-style to wick away moisture. You want damp, not soaking — and definitely not dry.
4. Place on your blocking board and use blocking pins to secure. Blocking wires are ideal for lace work — thread them through the edges to get crisp, even lines!
🚨 Use EXTRA care to avoid overstretching! Wet merino-silk will grow willingly — check your measurements as you go.
5. Leave to dry completely (a full day is typical). Set up a fan to speed things up. Avoid direct sunlight — it can discolor the yarn!
Marly's tip: Blocking lace is not optional — it's where the magic happens. That slightly crumpled thing on your needles? Pin it out, let it dry, and watch it transform into something ethereal. Trust the process…
Optional finishing touch: attach a leather tag with leather rivets for a beautiful, boutique-style look on your finished hat. 🏷️
More Free Knit Hat Patterns You'll Love 🧶
Love the Bashful? Here are more free knit hat patterns waiting for you…
🎀 Free Ribbed Knit Hat Pattern — the Double Dip — A fun dip-stitch ribbed hat that's great for adventurous beginners. Warm, stretchy, and endlessly wearable.
🎀 Free Slouchy Knit Hat Pattern — Another slouchy silhouette for hat lovers. Classic construction, relaxed fit.
🎀 Free Knit Lace Hat Pattern — More lace hat goodness if you've caught the lace bug after the Bashful!
🎀 All Marly Bird Free Knit Hat Patterns → — Browse the full collection of free knit hat patterns on the blog.
Final Thoughts
The Bashful Knit Lace Hat is one of those patterns that proves lace doesn't have to be scary… it just has to be intentional. You're creating beauty with every yarn over, every decrease, every stitch. And when you block it? Pure magic.
If you cast it on, please please please share your progress… tag me @marlybird on Instagram or Facebook and use #MMMDI (Marly Made Me Do It), #MarlyBird, or #BashfulKnitHat so I can see your gorgeous Bashful hat. 💛
❤️ Your BiCrafty Bestie,
Marly Bird
Frequently Asked Questions
What Weight Yarn Does the Bashful Hat Use?
The Bashful is designed for DK weight yarn (CYCA #3) — specifically Universal Yarns Eden Silk (75% merino wool, 25% silk). DK weight is a beautiful sweet spot for lace: light enough to drape elegantly, sturdy enough to hold the lace structure beautifully. Check out the yarn substitutes section above if you want to try a different DK merino or merino-silk option…
Do I Really Need to Block This Hat?
Yes — blocking is not optional for lace. Before blocking, your hat will look crumpled and the lace stitches will look closed and tight. After wet blocking, the yarn relaxes, the lace opens up into its true form, and the hat reaches its finished measurements. Think of blocking as the last step of the pattern, not the optional extra…
How Do I Know What Size to Make?
Choose the size closest to your actual head circumference — the finished brim measurements are S: 16″, M: 18″, L: 20″. Remember that the lace will grow slightly after blocking, so if you're between sizes, go down a size. Make a gauge swatch, block it, and measure to make sure you're on track before casting on…
What If My Lace Stitches Look Sloppy?
Tension in lace takes a little practice… the key is consistent tension on your yarn overs and decreases. Don't worry if your first few stitches look loose or uneven — they'll tighten up once the pattern finds its rhythm. And blocking will open up even slightly-tight lace and even out tension inconsistencies. Trust the process…
What's a Lifeline and Do I Need One?
A lifeline is a strand of smooth yarn or thread threaded through a complete round of stitches every 5–10 rounds. If you drop a stitch or need to rip back, the lifeline stops the damage at that round instead of letting it unravel further. For lace, a lifeline is like insurance… definitely optional, but absolutely worth it if you're new to lace. Watch Marly's lifeline tutorial here →
How Often Should I Wash This Hat?
Wash it whenever it needs it… I recommend gentle hand-washing in cool water with Eucalan or another wool wash. Lay flat to dry. If the lace stitches start to tighten up with wear, a quick gentle wet blocking will open them right back up…
Where Did the Name Come From?
The blush pink colorway inspired everything… there's something about that soft, rosy tone that feels gentle and a little bit shy. “Bashful” captured that feeling perfectly — delicate, pretty, and quietly elegant. Just like the best lace…
Categories: Knitting
