Pattern Description:

This playful Checkerboard Bucket Hat combines two contrasting colors in a bold, retro-inspired design.

Worked from the top down in joined rounds using half double crochet, it’s beginner-friendly yet stylish enough to turn heads.

The checkerboard effect is created by carrying yarn along each round, switching colors every few stitches.

Materials Needed & Measurements:

Yarn: Two colors of worsted weight (category 4) yarn. Example: Red Heart Soft or similar.
Yarn Weight: Medium worsted weight (#4).
Hook: 5.0 mm crochet hook (H-8).
Notions: Yarn needle for weaving in ends. Scissors.

Measurements:

Approximate finished hat circumference: 21-22 inches.
Height: around 7 inches from crown to brim.

Stitches & Abbreviations Used:

ch: chain
sl st: slip stitch
hdc: half double crochet
BLO: back loop only
st(s): stitch(es)
MC: Main Color
CC: Contrasting Color

Instructions for Making the Checkerboard Bucket Hat Pattern:

Note: The hat is worked from the crown down in joined rounds. Each round begins with a chain that does not count as a stitch. The checkerboard effect is achieved by changing colors every 3 stitches and carrying the unused yarn along.

Crown

Round 1: With MC, make a magic ring. Ch 1, work 8 hdc into ring. Join with sl st to first hdc. (8 sts)
Round 2: Ch 1. 2 hdc in each st around. Join. (16 sts)
Round 3: Ch 1. 1 hdc in next st, 2 hdc in next st. Repeat around. Join. (24 sts)
Round 4: Ch 1. 1 hdc in next 2 sts, 2 hdc in next st. Repeat around. Join. (32 sts)
Round 5: Ch 1. 1 hdc in next 3 sts, 2 hdc in next st. Repeat around. Join. (40 sts)
Round 6: Ch 1. 1 hdc in next 4 sts, 2 hdc in next st. Repeat around. Join. (48 sts)
Round 7: Ch 1. 1 hdc in next 5 sts, 2 hdc in next st. Repeat around. Join. (56 sts)
Round 8: Ch 1. 1 hdc in next 6 sts, 2 hdc in next st. Repeat around. Join. (64 sts)

Checkerboard Body

Round 9: Begin checkerboard pattern: work 3 hdc in MC, switch to CC and work next 3 hdc, repeat around (carry unused yarn along). Join.
Round 10-18: Repeat Round 9. Always switch colors every 3 stitches to keep the checkerboard effect. Make sure to keep tension even and carry yarn neatly inside.