Ballet Slipper Pom-Pom Hat Free Crochet Pattern

Introduction

This Ballet Slipper Pom-Pom Hat is a cozy, dance-inspired beanie that anyone can make, even if you've only crocheted a few simple projects before. The rounded plum crown is soft and squishy in half double crochet, while a contrasting mauve brim and a crisscrossed crocheted "ribbon" give it that sweet ballet slipper look. A fluffy mauve pom-pom on top finishes it off with a playful touch. It's warm, wearable, and quick enough to make as a gift (or three).

Materials Needed

• Yarn: Worsted weight (4) yarn — 200 yds plum, 50 yds mauve. Acrylic or a wool blend works well for warmth and stitch definition.
• Hooks: 5.0 mm (H-8) for the crown and ribbon; 4.5 mm (7) for the brim.
• Notions: Tapestry needle, scissors, stitch marker, small amount of polyester fiberfill (or a 3-inch pom-pom maker / cardboard templates).
• Finished size: Fits head circumference 20–22 inches; hat measures approx. 8.5 inches tall and 9 inches wide laid flat.

Abbreviations

• ch — chain
• sc — single crochet
• hdc — half double crochet
• st(s) — stitch(es)
• rnd(s) — round(s)
• MR — magic ring (adjustable loop)
• 2 hdc in next — work two half double crochet stitches into the same stitch (an increase)
• [ ] x8 — repeat the instructions inside the brackets eight times

Gauge

16 sts and 16 rnds = 4 inches (10 cm) in half double crochet with the 5.0 mm hook. To check, crochet a small swatch in the round or flat and measure a 4-inch section; adjust your hook size if your stitches are too tight or loose.

Tips Before You Start

• Use a stitch marker at the start of each round so you don't lose your place, especially through the increase rounds.
• Keep your tension relaxed on the brim — the 4.5 mm hook makes it snug, which helps the hat stay on.
• Try the hat on (or measure the flat width) before fastening off the crown; 9 inches wide laid flat should fit a 20–22 inch head.
• Pin the ribbon in place before sewing so you can adjust the crisscross to sit evenly at center front.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Hat Crown (plum, 5.0 mm hook)

Rnd 1: MR, 8 hdc into the ring. (8 sts)

Rnd 2: 2 hdc in each st around. (16 sts)

Rnd 3: [hdc, 2 hdc in next] x8. (24 sts)

Rnd 4: [2 hdc, 2 hdc in next] x8. (32 sts)

Rnd 5: [3 hdc, 2 hdc in next] x8. (40 sts)

Rnd 6: [4 hdc, 2 hdc in next] x8. (48 sts)

Rnd 7: [5 hdc, 2 hdc in next] x8. (56 sts)

Rnd 8: [6 hdc, 2 hdc in next] x8. (64 sts)

Rnd 9: [7 hdc, 2 hdc in next] x8. (72 sts)

Rnd 10: hdc in each st around. (72 sts)

Rnds 11–24: repeat Rnd 10. (72 sts)

Fasten off.

Brim (mauve, 4.5 mm hook)

Join mauve to any st of Rnd 24.

Rnd 1: sc in each st around. (72 sts)

Rnds 2–6: sc in each st around. (72 sts)

Fasten off.

Ribbon (mauve, 5.0 mm hook)

Row 1: Ch 61, sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across. (60 sts)

Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.

Pom-pom (mauve)

Make a pom-pom approx. 3 inches in diameter using a pom-pom maker or cardboard templates, stuffing lightly with fiberfill if needed. Trim to shape.

Edging (optional)

With mauve, sc around the bottom edge of the brim for a clean finish. Fasten off and weave in ends.

Assembly and Finishing

Attach the pom-pom securely to the top center of the hat with matching yarn, sewing through several times so it stays put. Crisscross the ribbon over the front of the hat so it crosses at center front with the ends extending to the sides; pin in place, then sew at the crossings and at the ends with matching yarn. Weave in all ends. Block lightly by misting with water and shaping over a bowl or hat form; let dry completely.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Swap the ribbon for a real satin ribbon for a sleeker ballet look, or add small buttons at the crossing points.
• Make the brim in the same plum as the crown for a subtle, tonal version.
• Use a contrasting pom-pom color, like cream or blush, to make the top pop.