Moss Block Dog Beanie: Free Crochet Pattern
Moss Block Dog Beanie: Free Crochet Pattern
Introduction
This retro 90s-inspired beanie is made for the big dogs who deserve a little extra style on chilly walks. Seven little granny squares form the crown, a folded double crochet brim keeps ears cozy, and two short chin straps hold everything snug. Worked in a moss green, lichen, and dark olive colorway, it has a soft, natural look that suits any pup. It is a quick, forgiving project that is perfect for crocheters making their first granny squares or their first pet accessory.
Materials Needed
- Yarn: Aran weight wool blend (for example 80% wool, 20% nylon), approximately 120 yards total: Color A (moss green) 60 yards, Color B (lichen) 40 yards, Color C (dark olive) 20 yards.
- Hook: 5.0 mm (US H-8).
- Notions: Tapestry needle, scissors, one button or a small piece of Velcro for the closure, stitch markers (optional).
- Finished size: Fits a head circumference of 22–24 inches (56–61 cm). Hat circumference is 20 inches (51 cm) unstretched, and height is 7 inches (18 cm) including the folded brim.
Abbreviations
- ch — chain: make a loop of yarn and pull it through the loop on your hook.
- sl st — slip stitch: insert hook, yarn over, pull through both the stitch and the loop on your hook.
- sc — single crochet: insert hook, yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through both loops.
- dc — double crochet: yarn over, insert hook, pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through two loops, yarn over and pull through the last two loops.
- st(s) — stitch(es).
- rnd — round: a full circle of stitches worked without turning.
- R — row: a straight line of stitches worked back and forth.
Gauge
One granny square measures 3 inches (7.5 cm) square after blocking, and double crochet works up at 4 stitches and 2 rows to 1 inch (2.5 cm). Check your gauge by making one square and one small dc swatch, then blocking and measuring them before you begin.
Tips Before You Start
- Make and block all seven squares before joining so they line up evenly and the crown sits flat.
- Keep your joining sc in Color A loose; tight joins will pull the crown in and make the hat too small.
- Try the beanie on your dog before attaching the closure so you can adjust the strap length if needed.
- Use the same hook for every part so the squares, brim, and straps all match in size.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Granny Squares (make 7)
Work each square in 4 rounds using any combination of Colors A, B, and C. Each square finishes at 3 inches (7.5 cm) after blocking.
Rnd 1: With your chosen color, ch 4, join with sl st to form a ring. Ch 3 (counts as first dc), 2 dc into ring, [ch 2, 3 dc into ring] three times, ch 2, join with sl st to top of beginning ch 3 (12 dc, 4 ch-2 spaces).
Rnd 2: Sl st into next 2 dc and into first ch-2 space. Ch 3, 2 dc in same space, ch 2, 3 dc in same space, *ch 1, [3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc] in next ch-2 space; repeat from * around, ch 1, join with sl st to top of beginning ch 3 (24 dc, 4 ch-2 spaces, 4 ch-1 spaces).
Rnd 3: Sl st into next 2 dc and into first ch-2 space. Ch 3, 2 dc in same space, ch 2, 3 dc in same space, *ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 space, ch 1, [3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc] in next ch-2 space; repeat from * around, ch 1, join with sl st to top of beginning ch 3 (36 dc, 4 ch-2 spaces, 8 ch-1 spaces).
Rnd 4: Sl st into next 2 dc and into first ch-2 space. Ch 3, 2 dc in same space, ch 2, 3 dc in same space, *[ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 space] twice, ch 1, [3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc] in next ch-2 space; repeat from * around, ch 1, join with sl st to top of beginning ch 3 (48 dc, 4 ch-2 spaces, 12 ch-1 spaces). Fasten off.
Crown Assembly
Arrange 6 squares into a 2x3 rectangle for the main crown, with the 7th square set aside as the top center piece. With Color A, join the 6 squares with single crochet, working through both layers along each shared edge. Then join the 7th square with single crochet to the center of the top edge of the rectangle. Fasten off.
Brim
With Color A, join yarn to the bottom edge of the crown.
R1: Sc evenly around the bottom edge (60 sts).
R2: Dc in each st around (60 sts).
R3–6: Repeat R2 (60 sts). Fasten off.
Straps (make 2)
With Color A, join yarn to the brim at one side edge.
R1: Sc 6 along the brim edge (6 sts).
R2: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across (6 sts).
R3–10: Repeat R2 (6 sts). Fasten off.
Repeat R1–10 on the opposite side edge of the brim for the second strap.
Edging
With Color B, join yarn at the brim edge. Sc evenly around the entire brim edge and both straps, working into each stitch and row end along the way. Join with sl st to the first sc. Fasten off.
Assembly and Finishing
Fold the brim up 2 inches (5 cm). Sew a button or attach Velcro to the ends of the two straps so they meet under the chin. Weave in all ends on the wrong side, then block the finished beanie by misting it lightly and shaping it over a rounded form or folded towel to the finished measurements. Let it dry completely before use.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Swap the button for Velcro if your dog is a puller, or use a longer strap with two buttons for an adjustable fit.
- Change the color placement of the squares for a scrappier look, or work all seven squares in Color A for a solid, classic beanie.
- Add a second round of Color B edging around the brim for a thicker, more visible contrast band.
