Free Knit Pattern for a Toddler Monkey Hat.
This free knitting pattern from Lion Brand Yarn creates an adorable monkey hat designed for toddlers. The hat is worked primarily in Vanna’s Choice® yarn, a readily available and easy-to-care-for acrylic. The design features a textured seed stitch band, a smooth stocking stitch body, and separately made muzzle, ears, and earflaps, all sewn together to create the charming monkey face.
The hat itself is constructed in a simple, straightforward manner. It’s worked flat, back and forth in rows, starting from the lower edge. The seed stitch band provides a snug and stretchy fit, while the stocking stitch body creates a classic knitted fabric. The crown (top of the hat) is shaped with a series of decreases, evenly spaced to create a rounded top. After the main hat piece is complete, it’s seamed up the back.
The muzzle, ears, and earflaps are all knitted separately and then attached to the hat. The muzzle is shaped with decreases and lightly stuffed to give it dimension. The ears are also shaped with decreases, creating a slightly rounded form. The earflaps are worked in a rib-like pattern (alternating knit and purl stitches) and decreased to create a tapered shape.
The finishing details bring the monkey to life. The muzzle is sewn to the center front of the hat, and the nostrils and mouth are embroidered with black yarn. Black buttons (or felt circles, for added safety) are sewn on for the eyes. The ears are attached to the top of the hat, and the earflaps are positioned on either side. Finally, braided ties are made from strands of yarn and attached to the bottom of each earflap, providing both a decorative touch and a way to secure the hat under the chin. The construction is straightforward as it is knitted flat.
- Measurements:
- Finished Circumference: About 17 inches (43 cm), will stretch to fit a range of sizes.
- Finished Height: About 5 inches (12.5 cm).
- Size: One Size (Toddler)
- Skill Level: Easy
- Materials Needed:
- Yarn: Lion Brand® Vanna’s Choice® (100% Acrylic):
- (A) Chocolate (860-126): 1 Ball
- (B) Beige (860-123): 1 Ball
- Needles: US Size 6 (4.00 mm) knitting needles
- Notions:
- Large-Eye Blunt Needles
- Fiberfill stuffing
- Small amount of black yarn (for mouth and nose)
- Scrap of black felt (optional, for eyes)
- 2 black buttons for eyes, 1 inch (25 mm) diameter (or felt circles)
- Tapestry Needle
- Yarn: Lion Brand® Vanna’s Choice® (100% Acrylic):
