A soft beanie, a little extra room at the back, and a fabric you love—sometimes that’s all you need for an everyday hat you’ll keep reaching for.
This free slouchy beanie sewing pattern comes in 7 sizes and uses just two fabric pieces. In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to sew an unlined beanie with simple crown darts, stretchy seams, and a neatly hemmed bottom edge. You can make it on a regular sewing machine, so there’s no need for a serger.
If you’ve tried my original beanie sewing tutorial, this version gives you another option: a single-layer hat with a softly slouchy shape and no lining to assemble. Choose a light jersey for everyday wear or a soft, stretchy sweater knit for a cozier finish.
You’ll find the free PDF pattern at the bottom of this post when you’re logged in, along with the size chart and pattern notes. Let’s choose your fabric and get started!
This Slouchy Beanie Sewing Project at a Glance
Before cutting your fabric, here’s a quick look at this easy beanie sewing project.
| Detail | Project Information |
|---|---|
| Sewing level | Beginner |
| Sewing time | Approximately 20–40 minutes, depending on experience |
| Pattern | Free printable PDF |
| Sizes | 7 sizes; see the size chart below |
| Fit | Comfortable around the head, with extra length that slouches at the back |
| Fabric | Soft stretch knit with good recovery |
| Lining | None—single-layer construction |
| Pattern pieces | Front × 1, back × 1 |
| Seam allowance | 3/8 in (1 cm); follow the pattern markings for the hem |
| Sewing machine | Regular sewing machine or serger |
The lovely thing about this unlined beanie is how little sewing it requires. You shape the crown, join the two pieces, and finish the bottom edge. The weight and warmth depend on your fabric, so you can make the same design feel light and breathable or soft and cozy.
Best Fabric for Sewing a Slouchy Beanie
Choose a soft knit fabric with good stretch and recovery. It should stretch comfortably around your head, then return close to its original shape when released.
For the soft folds you see in my finished beanie, drape matters too. A supple knit falls gently at the back; a thick, firm fabric creates a more structured shape.
| Fabric | Why It Works | What to Check |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton jersey with elastane | Soft, breathable, and comfortable for everyday wear | Choose a weight that isn’t too thin or transparent |
| Rib knit | Flexible and stretchy, with a cozy texture | Check recovery so the opening doesn’t become loose |
| Lightweight sweater knit | Gives a soft, draped, slouchy look | Avoid very loose knits that snag or unravel easily |
| Stretch French terry | Comfortable, with a little more structure | Make sure it has enough stretch for your chosen size |
| Stretch fleece | A warmer option for cooler weather | Use a genuinely stretchy fleece; thick fleece will drape less |
My favorite choices: cotton jersey with elastane for an everyday hat, or a soft rib knit for a cozy finish. Lightweight sweater knit is lovely when you want the back to fall into gentle folds.
Not sure how stretchy your fabric really is? My fabric stretch percentage guide and free printable gauge will help you check it before cutting. Compare your result with any stretch guidance supplied with the pattern.
Avoid stiff woven fabrics and knits with very little stretch. This pattern relies on the fabric stretching around your head for a comfortable fit.
How Much Fabric Do You Need?
As a starting estimate, allow approximately 16–20 inches (40–50 cm) of knit fabric that is 55–59 inches (140–150 cm) wide.
The exact amount depends on your size, fabric width, and cutting layout. Lay out both printed pattern pieces before buying or cutting fabric, especially for larger sizes, directional prints, or fabrics with a nap. You may need extra fabric to keep both pieces facing the same direction.
Prewash and dry your fabric as you plan to care for the finished hat, then let it relax before cutting.
Other Supplies
- Matching polyester thread
- Ballpoint or stretch sewing machine needle, such as 75/11 or 80/12, suited to your fabric
- Fabric scissors or a rotary cutter and mat
- Pins or sewing clips
- Measuring tape
- Fabric-safe marking tool
- Sewing machine
- Iron and pressing surface
- Optional stretch or ballpoint twin needle for the hem
If this is one of your first knit fabric sewing projects, keep my beginner’s guide to sewing knit fabric nearby. It walks through the needles, stitches, and settings that help make sewing stretchy fabric easier.
Choosing Your Beanie Size and Cutting the Pieces
Measure around your head where the bottom edge of the beanie will sit, usually across the forehead and just above the ears. Keep the measuring tape comfortably snug without pulling it tight, then use the pattern’s size chart to choose your size.
Slouchy describes the extra length at the back, not an oversized opening. The bottom edge should sit comfortably and stay in place. You don’t need to size up just to get the slouchy shape.
Print the PDF at 100% or Actual Size, with page scaling turned off. Check the test square before assembling or cutting your pattern.
| Pattern Piece | Cut |
|---|---|
| Beanie front | 1 |
| Beanie back | 1 |
Place both pieces so the greatest stretch goes around your head, rather than from the forehead toward the crown. Keep the print or nap direction consistent on the front and back.
Transfer the dart markings and any other matching marks to the fabric. Follow the seam and hem allowances shown on your PDF; don’t add an extra allowance where one is already included.
How to Sew a Slouchy Beanie Without a Lining
Step 1: Sew the Crown Darts
The darts at the top shape the flat fabric into a rounded crown.
Take the front piece and fold each dart right sides together, matching the marked edges or dart legs. Pin carefully without stretching the fabric.
Sew along the dart’s marked stitching line, tapering smoothly to the point. If your pattern has cut-out darts, use the indicated 3/8-inch (1 cm) seam allowance along the cut edges, tapering as shown. A marked, uncut dart should be sewn along its marked legs rather than a fixed distance from the fold.
A straight stitch about 2.5–3 mm long can work for these short crown darts when they won’t need to stretch. Test it on your fabric first; use a narrow stretch stitch if the seam needs more give. Leave thread tails at the point and tie them gently instead of making a bulky backstitch there.
Repeat on the back piece, then gently press the darts to one side using a temperature suitable for your fabric.
Step 2: Join the Front and Back
Lay the front piece right side up, then place the back on top, right sides together.
Match the outer edges, crown seams, and any pattern markings. Pin or clip around the sides and top, leaving the bottom edge open.
Sew the outer seam using a 3/8-inch (1 cm) seam allowance and a stitch that can stretch with the fabric. Let the machine feed the fabric naturally rather than pulling it through.
Which Stitch Should You Use for a Knit Beanie?
You can sew this beanie on a regular sewing machine. Test your chosen stitch on a scrap of the same fabric before starting.
| Stitch | Suggested Starting Point | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Narrow zigzag | Width 1–1.5 mm; length 2.5–3 mm | Joining the beanie pieces |
| Lightning or stretch stitch | Follow your machine’s manual | Flexible construction seams |
| 4-thread overlock | Adjust for your fabric and the pattern’s seam allowance | Joining and finishing seams with a serger |
| Stretch or ballpoint twin needle | Follow your machine’s threading and stitch settings | Finishing the bottom hem |
My first choice on a regular sewing machine is a narrow zigzag. After testing, gently stretch the sample seam to check that the stitches can move without snapping.
If you use a serger, keep the stitching line at the pattern’s seam allowance rather than accidentally trimming away extra width.
Step 3: Turn Right Side Out and Check the Fit
Turn the beanie right side out and gently smooth the crown and seams with your fingers.
Try it on with the bottom edge temporarily folded to your planned hem depth. This gives you a better idea of the finished length than trying it on with the raw edge unfolded.
The opening should feel comfortable around your forehead and ears, while the extra fabric falls softly toward the back.
Step 4: Hem the Bottom Edge
Turn the bottom edge toward the wrong side, following the hem allowance on your pattern. For the finish described here, about 1 1/4 inches (3 cm) makes a neat, simple hem.
You can vary the fold between approximately 3/4 and 1 5/8 inches (2–4 cm) if the pattern and fit allow it. Remember that a deeper hem shortens the finished hat and reduces the amount of slouch.
Press gently, then pin or clip the hem evenly all the way around.
Sew from the right side, catching the folded fabric underneath, using one of these options:
- Twin needle: creates two parallel lines on the outside. Test that the finished hem stretches enough to pull over your head.
- Zigzag stitch: a simple, stretchy option that’s especially handy for beginners.
- Suitable stretch stitch: use one recommended by your machine’s manual for knit hems.
Avoid stretching the opening as you sew. If the fabric ripples, test a lighter presser-foot pressure if your machine allows it, and gently press the finished hem without dragging the iron.
Trim your threads, give the beanie a final gentle press, and it’s ready to wear!
Tips for a Comfortable Slouchy Beanie
Choose recovery as well as stretch. A fabric that stretches easily but stays stretched out may become loose around the opening.
Match your fabric to the look you want. Soft jersey and supple sweater knits create a draped silhouette. Firmer knits give the same pattern more body.
Keep both pieces facing the same stretch direction. The front and back should behave consistently when worn.
Check the fit before sewing the hem. Pinning the fold lets you see how much length remains at the back.
Keep the opening stretchy. A hem that looks beautiful but won’t stretch can make the beanie difficult to put on.
Slouchy Beanie Sewing Questions
Can I Sew This Beanie Without a Serger?
Yes! A regular sewing machine with a narrow zigzag or suitable stretch stitch is enough. Use a needle suited to your knit fabric and test your seam and hem before sewing the hat.
Does This Beanie Need a Lining?
No. This is an unlined beanie sewing pattern, so you only cut the front and back pieces. If you’d prefer a double-layer project, my lined and reversible beanie tutorial walks you through that construction instead.
Is a Slouchy Beanie the Same as a Relaxed-Fit Beanie?
The terms can overlap, but slouchy refers specifically to the extra fabric that falls at the back. This hat has that softly draped shape while still sitting comfortably around the head.
Can I Use Fleece?
You can use fleece with enough stretch for the pattern, but check it before cutting. Thick or firm fleece will create a more structured hat with less drape than a lightweight knit.
Free Slouchy Beanie Sewing Pattern – PDF in 7 Sizes
Ready to make your own? My free slouchy beanie sewing pattern is available in 7 sizes, with a simple front-and-back construction and no lining to sew.
Log in to access the PDF download below, then check the size chart and pattern notes before printing. Choose your size by head measurement and check the printed test square before cutting your fabric.
Once you’ve made the first one, it’s easy to imagine another in a different fabric—a light jersey version for everyday wear or a cozy knit in someone’s favorite color for a handmade gift.
I like having a few different handmade hats to choose from. This slouchy version is lovely for a soft, casual look, while my original lined beanie is another option when you want two layers. And when you’re ready to sew for warmer days, you can explore my free summer hat sewing patterns for a completely different shape.
I hope this little project becomes a useful part of your handmade wardrobe. If you share your finished beanie on Instagram, tag @sparrow_refashion—I’d love to see the fabric you choose!
Free Pattern
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