Learn to Crochet a Toadstool/Mushroom Hat

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Decreasing the Hat Size
   1. Pulling up a Loop and Crocheting Together
   2. Removing the Stitch Marker
   3. Decreasing on the 20th Stitch
   4. Single Crocheting 19 Stitches and Decreasing on the 20th Stitch
   5. Continuing to Decrease
   6. Decreasing Every 20th Stitch
   7. Decreasing Every 19th, 18th, 17th, and so on
   8. Decreasing Every 16th Stitch
   9. Slip Stitching All the Way Around
   10. Sewing in the End

Decreasing the Hat Size

Crocheting a hat that fits perfectly can be a challenging task. However, with the proper techniques, you can easily resize your hat to fit just right. In this section, we will explore the process of decreasing the hat size step by step.

Pulling up a Loop and Crocheting Together

To start decreasing the hat size, you will need to pull up a loop and crochet two stitches together. This will gradually reduce the number of stitches in each round, resulting in a smaller hat.

Removing the Stitch Marker

Before you begin the decreasing process, it's essential to remove any stitch markers that you have used to keep track of your rounds. This will ensure that you don't accidentally decrease in the wrong stitches.

Decreasing on the 20th Stitch

In the previous round, you decreased on the 21st stitch. Now, you will focus on the 20th stitch for the decrease. Single crochet 19 stitches and then, on the 20th stitch, perform the decrease.

Single Crocheting 19 Stitches and Decreasing on the 20th Stitch

After placing a new stitch marker, continue the pattern of single crocheting 19 stitches and decreasing on the 20th stitch. This will help maintain the shape of the hat as it gradually decreases in size.

Continuing to Decrease

Repeat the process of single crocheting 19 stitches and decreasing on the 20th stitch until the diameter of the hat matches your desired size. The number of rounds required will depend on the specific measurements you are aiming for.

Decreasing Every 20th Stitch

Once you have reached the desired diameter, the next step is to decrease every 20th stitch. This will further reduce the size of the hat and ensure a snug fit.

Decreasing Every 19th, 18th, 17th, and so on

To continue decreasing, you will reduce the number of stitches by one in each round. Decrease on the 19th stitch, then the 18th, then the 17th, and so on. This gradual decrease will give your hat a tapered shape.

Decreasing Every 16th Stitch

As you approach the bottom of the hat, you can decrease every 16th stitch to create a more snug fit. This final decrease will complete the resizing process.

Slip Stitching All the Way Around

After completing the decreasing rounds, finish the hat by slip stitching all the way around the base. This will create a neat edge and secure the stitches.

Sewing in the End

Once you have slip stitched around the base, cut off the yarn, leaving a long enough tail to sew in. Use a yarn needle to sew in the loose ends, ensuring that your hat is neatly finished.

By following these step-by-step instructions, you can easily decrease the size of your crochet hat and achieve a perfect fit.

Pros:

• Allows you to resize hats to fit different head sizes
• Gives a customized and snug fit
• Maintains the shape and design of the hat

Cons:

• Requires careful counting and attention to detail
• May require some trial and error to achieve the desired fit

FAQs

Q: How do I know what diameter to decrease my hat to? A: The diameter of the hat should match the head size that you are targeting. You can measure the circumference of the head and calculate the diameter accordingly.

Q: Can I decrease the hat size by skipping stitches instead of crocheting them together? A: While skipping stitches can technically reduce the size of the hat, it may affect the overall appearance and structure. It's best to follow the recommended decrease techniques for a neater outcome.

Q: Can I use a different stitch for decreasing the hat size? A: The instructions provided in this article are focused on single crochet stitches. However, you may be able to adapt the technique for other stitches by following the general principles of decreasing.

Q: How long does it typically take to decrease a hat size? A: The time it takes to decrease a hat size can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the pattern and the crocheter's skill level. It is best to approach the process with patience and allow yourself ample time to complete each round of decreases.

Q: Can I use this technique to resize other crochet projects, such as scarves or blankets? A: The technique of decreasing can be applied to various crochet projects. However, the specific instructions provided in this article are tailored for decreasing the size of a crochet hat. For other projects, you may need to modify the instructions based on the stitch pattern and desired outcome.