This crochet messy bun beanie has been my best-selling design since 2016 and I am providing it to you guys here for free!
The very first pattern I ever wrote up and sold was the Claire Bun Beanie. I had no idea what I was doing, I didn’t even follow crochet patterns so I totally just made it up as I went!
At the end of
To those of you that purchased this pattern from my shop, it is because of you that I continued publishing crochet patterns, the reason I started this blog, and the reason, today, I am living my best life.
Don’t forget your freebie! Sign up to my email list and you’ll receive the Claire Bun Beanie Product Tags for absolutely free, and start receiving other handy freebies from me every week!
Your purchase has done more for me than I could ever describe, and I’m not talking about money.
I’m talking about all the positive feedback, 5-star reviews, tagged photos and encouragement from you guys is what got me excited about designing in the first place.
So from the bottom of my heart, thank you for purchasing the pattern and helping A Crafty Concept get off the ground!
That being said, the ad-free PDF version of the pattern will still be listed as 5.00 in my Shop. I just think that’s a good way to keep it fair for everyone.
Now that the Claire Bun Beanie is free for all to use, I can post more sizes and videos as well (since I won’t have to send out over 2,000 emails one at a time with an update!)
You if you prefer to watch the video tutorial, I have linked it here for you.
Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links, meaning I may receive a small commission, at NO ADDITIONAL cost to you, from purchases made using the links provided.
Claire Bun Beanie
This pattern is for an adult size messy bun beanie for heads with a circumference of 22 inches – 23 inches.
If you would like to make a beanie for a child’s size head with a circumference of 20-21 inches, you could always drop down a hook size. If you have tight tension you may want to jump up a hook size.
There is also instructions for the closed version near the end of the post, or you can find the full pattern here!
If you need a size that is currently unavailable, you can easily adjust the pattern by adding or taking away stitches/rows.
Materials
I (5.5mm) size hook. I used my beautiful ergonomic Volkswagen “I” hook created by Becki over at Chloe Rebecca Boutique on Etsy.
In the video, you will notice I use my Clover Amour size J hook. With Clover Amour hooks, my tension is much tighter, so I had to jump up a hook size.
This pattern is for an adult size but if you want to make a child-size I would suggest dropping down to a size H hook.
4-5oz of worsted weight yarn. I used “I Love This Yarn” from Hobby Lobby in the color Peacock.
Stitch Key (US Terms)
SC = Single Crochet
CH = Chain
PS = Puff Stitch (explained below)
PSDEC = Puff Stitch Decrease (explained below) BLO = Back Loop Only (explained below)
YO = Yarn Over
INC= Increase (explained below)
SL ST= Slip Stitch
GAUGE
3”x3” Square
10 stitches by 10 rows Single Crochet
Puff Stitch
YO, insert hook into next stitch and pull up a loop. Now you have 3 loops on your hook. YO insert hook into the same space and pull up another loop ( 5 loops) repeat two more times (for a total of 4 times) until you have 9 loops on your hook, YO then
Puff Stitch Decrease
YO, insert hook into stitch and pull up a loop. Repeat two more times until you have 7 loops on your hook. YO, Insert hook into next stitch and pull up a loop. Repeat two more times until you have 13 loops total on your hook. YO and pull through all 13 loops. Secure with a CH stitch.
Back Loop Only
When you are looking on top of your work you will see
Increase
Put two stitches in the same space. In this
Brim
Make a slip knot and CH 10
Row 1: skip the chain closest to your hook and SC in the next 9 stitches. CH 1 and turn work. Row 2-50: SCBLO in next 9 stitches. CH 1, turn.
GAUGE: ADULT BRIM SHOULD BE ABOUT 14 INCHES IN LENGTH
TIP: Be careful not to make your “CH 1’s” too tight. If you do your brim will not stretch enough to fit an adult head. When you finish your 50 rows and join the brim closed, you should be able to stretch it without being restricted from anything other than that’s as far as the yarn its self will stretch.
This will create the brim of your beanie. Now its time to join to the beginning of the brim so your work creates a circle.
After finishing row 50 still do your CH and turn as normal. Fold the band in half, with the RS facing together.
Working through both loops on each end of the band, SL ST to join. CH 1, turn band right side out and turn your work 90 degrees to start working on the hat body. (9 SL STs, ch 1)
Now flip your brim inside out so that your join you just completed in on the inside of the beanie. This is the “good side” of your work. You never turn your work from here on out.
Hat Body
Row 1: SC 55 stitches around the brim by evenly spacing them out. Since you are working along the side of your brim you will need to make your own places to put your stitches. Join back into your first SC, then CH up 1.
Row 2: PS in the same space as the CH 1 (Don’t forget the CH for securing your puff stitch after you complete each one) Skip the next stitch, PS in the next stitch. Continue around until you have 28 PS total. Join into the top of your first PS and CH 1.
Row 3: PS in the first CH 1 space that was created after securing your PS in Row 2. Continue putting a PS in CH 1 space from Row 2 until you have 28 PS. Join into the top of your first PS. CH 1.
Row 4: PS around starting in the space RIGHT next to your CH 1. Join back into your first PS, CH 1. (28)
Rows 5-8: Alternate Row 3 and Row 4 until you have 7 total rows of PS. (28)
TO CLOSE YOUR CLARIE BUN BEANIE JUMP DOWN TO CLOSED ROW 9
Row 9: PS in the gap created by your CH 1 in Row 8. PSDEC over the next two CH 1 spaces. *PS in the next 3 CH 1 gaps then another PSDEC.* Repeat from * around ending with a final PSDEC. Join into your first PS, CH 1 (22)
Row 10: PS in the next 3 CH 1 gaps. PSDEC. *PS in the next two CH 1 gaps, PSDEC* Repeat from * around, omitting the last PS. (so will end with PSDEC, PS and join) (17)
Row 11: PS in the gap created by your CH 1 in Row 11. PSDEC over the next 2 gaps. Repeat around, for the very last stitch do a PS instead of a PSDEC. Join back into your first PS, CH 1. (12)
Row 12: SC in the same stitch as your CH 1. SC in each stitch around. Be sure to SC into the actual stitch and not into the gaps. (24)
Tie off, weave in your ends, and your all finished!! You can add a tag or cute button if you want to embellish you newly finished Claire Bun Beanie.
Closed Claire Bun Beanie
Closed Row 9: Repeat Row 3. Join into the top of your first PS. CH 1 (28)
Closed Row 10: PSDEC over the next two CH spaces, starting in the one closes to your CH 1.*PS in the next 3 CH 1 spaces then another PSDEC.* Repeat from * around. You will end with 1 PS (omitting the last 2). Join into your first PS, CH 1. (22 PS)
Closed Row 11: PS in the first CH 1 space that was created after securing your PSDEC in Row 10. PSDEC. *PS in the next two CH 1 spaces, PSDEC* Repeat from * around, ending with a 3 PS. Join back into your first PS. CH 1. (17)
Closed Row 12: PSDEC over the next two CH spaces, starting in the one closes to your CH 1. *PS, PSDEC* around, ending with a PSDEC. Join back into your first PS, CH 1. (11)
Closed Row 13: PSDEC over the next two CH spaces, starting in the CH 1 space that was created after securing you PSDEC in row 12. PSDEC around 5 more times, PS in the last CH 1 space. Join back into your first PSDEC, CH 1. (6)
Closed Row 14: SC in the same stitch as your CH 1. SC in each stitch around. Be sure to SC into the actual stitch and not into the spaces. Join back into your first SC. (12)
Cut yarn leaving a long tail and sew closed using your preferred technique. I like using “The Magic Fasten Off”.
Donut hook by Aj’s Crochet
If you want to add a detachable crochet bow to your Claire Bun Beanie you can find the free pattern at www.southerndaycrochet.com.
You can find instructions on how I attach my bows to an alligator clip (and links to supplies used) here
I’ve made 3 of these bun beanies so far. My first one is larger than the last 2. I was wondering what the length and width is of a finished beanie. I used I Love This Yarn for all 3.
Its about 7.5 inches tall and 9 inches wide. You may find the video helpful, did you try watching that?
The larger one measurement is spot on. The smaller on measures 7.25 tall and 8.5 wide. I did watch the video and it’s very helpful. I’m going to try again.
What if when I finish the 50 rows it measures out to be 18 inches, unstretched. I counted rows carefully and have 25 ridges. Is it okay to take off rows ?
Just made the closed beanie for my daughter’s upcoming trip to NYC. She is so, so happy with the the hat. Thank you! And an extra big thanks for the tutorial on attaching the pompom. It worked perfectly! ❤️ I haven’t crocheted much for years, but found your directions easy to follow and the little tipsy were very useful. Thank you!
*tips! (Apparently I’m the one who’s a little tipsy. ????)
Oh wow I am so happy to hear that thank you!
Thank you so much,, I really love this
Thank you so much. Love the pattern. You have made many people happy.
Hi, Ashley!
I would like to make a slouchy version of your Claire Beanie. Is it possible following your instructions for de messy bun version? I mean, can I make a slouchy version with a 50-row-brim and no PS decreases.
Thanks
Hey! So If you follow the closed version and just add a few more rows before the decreases itll be slouchy-er and probably really super cute !
Thanks!! I will try :-S
What’s the yarn you hold up to show the beanie ? You are standing in front of bins of yarn. It’s a multi color hat. Thanks!
Oh gosh im not sure. If you take a screenshot and send it to me on instagram or email it to me I can tell ya!
Hay Ashley,
Can you tell me what the % is from the cotton / polyester / polyamiden ect.
From the “ I love this yarn”.
In The Netherlands we don’t have “ I love to yarn”. So I will look for something what is the “same” 😁 I love the beanie and you explain it perfect!
Thanks for your answer in advens
Good luck with everything you make and post👌🤗
Greetings Tinkelbell
How do you go through all the loops on your hook so easily? My hook gets all caught up in the loops and I end up grabbing little pieces of the yarn as well. One puff stitch takes me forever to get through because of all the snags and amount of time I spend having to un-do and re-do it. Not sure if it’s the yarn I’m using or operator error!!!!?? I am using Caron Simply Soft (Gray Heather). I am still fairly new to crocheting but feel like I should have this figured out after all the times I’ve practiced this stitch… Any help would be great! Thanks 🙂
I struggle with this when I’m stitching too tight, try loosening your tension 🙂
You should try clover amour hooks. They are my favorite hooks to use and they glide right through the yarn!
I had trouble pulling through on the puff stitches…until I switched technique. I did a regular yarn over before going through, but in the back, I did a “yarn under” – reversed the usual YO. This seems to facilitate easier pull through by making the 9 loops twist in the same direction. Hope this makes sense and helps! ✌️+🫶
When you chain one to secure puff do you chain one more stitch
I came across your pattern and started making them for all the girls in my family! Thanks so much for sharing this! I haven’t crocheted in years and now, I am making three beanies a day!
I am a self-taught crocheter and I love this hat!
so easy to follow!
What size tags do you use? They look perfect!
Love this! Thank you for such a great tutorial. I wonder if you’ve made the video for the closet top version. I cant seem to find it on youtube.
Thank you! No I havent made a video for the closed version yet :/ sorry
Hey! I’ve made a few of these are they are too small for my head somehow. I even went up a hook size. If I did 65 rows of sc instead of the 55 sc would that still work??
Hey shania, I’m doing the same now. Doing 65 instead of 55 sc. It’s coming fine! Haven’t completed it yet. But you may want to tweak the length a bit. I did. I mean less number of rows maybe, though it’ll depend on how long you want it. Nothing else changes. Hope this helps 🙂
I did 60 rows for the brim and picked up 66 stitches for the puff stitches row.
Hello there do you have newborn sizing available?
Hi I sure do. All the Baby Claire sizes can be found here https://www.acraftyconcept.com/baby-claire-beanies/
I just completed my first Claire messy bun beanie today and it’s way to small. I thought maybe it was the yarn so I’ve started another one in a different yarn. I just finished the 50 rows and it’s only measuring 12” long. I’m using the J 10 hook. I’ve watched your video as I am making them. I have no clue why mine isn’t working. I do love your videos and patterns. I’m a beginner so I love how easy it is to follow you! Any advice you can give me?
I just made one last night and had the same problem. I went up to a k hook and increased the band to 55 rows. I have a 21 inch head measurement and its still VERY snug. You could probably do 60 and keep your base row at an odd number and be ok. It will change your decrease tho
Hi! I love this hat pattern…thanks for creating and sharing with us! I also love the red, white and blue variegated yarn in your pictures. I apologize if it’s already been asked and answered but what brand is that specific yarn? I scrolled the comments but didn’t find it. Thanks!
I loved following you with this pattern. You made learning it very easy. I have been a basic crocheter for many years but I am learning new stitches and how to make different items all the time. This was my very first hat and it turned out beautifully! Thank you so very much for being a great teacher. I am definitely a follower of yours.
I have made so many of these. I love the pattern. I have sold a few of them 💜
Hi Ashley,
I am at the process of making this beanie right now, however, I am trying to understand the instructions on how to close it and am having a difficult time understanding it. Do you have a video tutorial of you crocheting the closed version of the Claire Bun Beanie?
Thank you!
Hi, Trying to find out where the video is to make the closed bun beanie? Can you please let me know where I might find that?
I love the hat. Is there a printable version? If I print the screen I get all the adds too. Thank you
Hi 🙂 love your beanies, I’m having abit of trouble working out the wool you are using, in NZ we have Ply of wool, I tried this with a 8 ply wool but it was tight and way to small (the band) wondering if you could help? Thanks so much
I’ ve made this beanie a few times using a 6mm/J hook and 55 rows for ribbing. I think the yarn used makes a difference. The Red Heart Super saver yarn is a thicker worsted weight whick works for me because I crochet tightly. Have also used Mary Maxim Starlette and Bernat Premium. No Hobby Lobby in Canada. Want to try this pattern with a #5 bulky weight yarn for colder winter weather. Tarryn in New Zealand- I can help with that. Yarn thickness is measured in WPI. Wraps per inch in Britain perhaps New Zealand too.you are using 8 ply which would be an aran weight.. Wrap yarn around ruler so wraps are touching count how many wraps per inch you get. The higher the number the thinner the yarn. Hobby Lobby I love this yarn is 12WPI worsted weight yarn..
I’ ve made this beanie a few times using a 6mm/J hook and 55 rows for ribbing. I think the yarn used makes a difference. The Red Heart Super saver yarn is a thicker worsted weight whick works for me because I crochet tightly. Have also used Mary Maxim Starlette and Bernat Premium. No Hobby Lobby in Canada. Want to try this pattern with a #5 bulky weight yarn for colder winter weather.
I wish it was an easier form to print out just the pattern, I don’t have a lot of money and don’t want to waste paper! Otherwise, I think my niece will love it!
Your patterns are the best. Do you have the pattern for the cowl.? I have tried to reach out to you for the cowl pattern but I never heard back, so if you have this pattern, please let me know and how much it costs…… thanks Barbara
Wow, I’m already having my reply published….lol I received the link for the cowl pattern, but I don’t know if I choosing the wrong thing or what but I have tried to buy it and it never makes it to the cart, so I don’t know what to do. I am a 73 year old senior citizen and am not REAL computer savvy, so if you could send me whatever I’m supposed to print it would help me to know what to do. I will pay you thru PayPal, no problem. Thank you so much, I really feel old now!!!! but thank you so much for your help.
You don’t need to buy it, you can just follow along here on the web page. I haven’t paid anything. If you just scroll up everything you need to make the hat is here. The instructions are so simple you could probably just write them down.
Do you have any advise for if I wanted to start from the top, or incorporate an elastic hair tie into the top? Love the beanie!
What is the hat pattern in the video you are showing how to attach the pom pom. Is there a written pattern?
How do I print the Clarie Bun Beanie Pattern. I cannot sit at a computer and crochet. Please tell me what I am missing.
Is there any way you can make a video for the closed bun beanie please
Where can I fine the orange, blue, and white yarn that was used in the picture for the beanie? I have looked everywhere. Thank you so very much in advance
Maybe I’m just having a moment- but here’s my question. I’m the video tutorial you are going in 4 times for the puff stitch but the written instructions indicate going in 3 times. Have I overlooked something or did I hear it wrong? If I made a mistake I’ll own it but I want to make sure I’m making it properly. I adore this pattern and thank you sooooooo much for sharing!
Never mind- I’m an idiot
Hi. Love this pattern. Trying to make it for my 18 mo old grandson. I know it states you can use an h hook but do you follow the pattern exactly for the child with this hook. Same amount of single crochets for the first round (55) & same amount of bobbles? TIA & Thanks again for making this free.
I just finished one of the closed versions. Love the pattern, it’s easy enough to follow. However, it’s almost too small for my 2 yr old and I don’t know why. Any advice? Going to start another one and see what happens.
I had to go up to a size L hook to make gauge because I have tight tension.
I’m really struggling with the brim. I’ve done 50 rows and it only just fits half of head, ear to ear, and only if I stretch it. I’m using a double knit yarn with a 5.5 hook.
She has very loose tension. I have tight tension so I had to go up to a L hook before I met gauge
Hi I have a question do I make the rim the same size for child and toddlers ? What size hook do I use for child and toddlers ?
I can’t find the pattern for the bow. When I click the link for it, it goes to the website but there’s no pattern.
Would you be able to tell me what yarn the orange, blue and cream yarn is in one of the photos? It’s beautiful and I have searched everywhere but cannot find it. Thanks in advance for your time!
It’s important to tell people in your pattern that the pattern is yarn under and that the puff stitches are a combo of both yarn unders and overs. Yarn unders causes a much smaller size, so for people who crochet in the traditional manner, the finished hat is much too large. Didn’t figure out what I was doing wrong until I watched the video. Had to adjust number of stitches for the brim as well as turn the puff stitches into bean stitches.