Have you ever wanted to learn how to sew a beanie? Well, you're in luck! In this blog post, we will teach you step-by-step how to sew a beanie from scratch. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sewer, our easy-to-follow instructions and helpful tips will guide you through the process. From choosing the right fabric to adding personalized touches, you'll have a cozy and fashionable beanie in no time. These are great gifts and work for boys and girls both....and I just can't get over how cute the kids look in a sweet snowhat with a cute pom. So grab your sewing machine and let's get started on this fun and rewarding DIY tutorial!

Learn How to Sew a Beanie

Brighton Beanie Pattern

The Brighton Beanie stands out from the rest! This hat pattern is particularly great for kids and offers a range of sizes from babies and toddlers to youth and adults. What sets this pattern apart is that it includes three different styles of beanies that can be worn in four unique ways, making it incredibly versatile. The Brighton is perfect for those looking to create a customized and stylish accessory for themselves or their loved ones.

Lets take a quick look at the options available before we go any further.

You can find this chart in the listing image, but let’s take a quick look through it before we get started. View A is the standard fit. There is no slouch or extra give to this one. It fits the wearer’s head snugly. View B offers the option of wearing this in two ways. Either as a slouchy or folded over to be a standard fit. View C is a more Slouchy beanie.

You can make these beanies either with a seam or without a seam. Now let’s read that tiny piece of information in bold letters on the pattern again. If we want to use two different fabrics, we have to use the bottom seam version. This is very important to keep in mind.

One sleepy evening I made a Beanie with contrasting fabrics and the seamless method. When I pulled everything right side out, I had my wake-up call and a good laugh! The front and back were 2 different fabrics. My kids have Wacky Hat Day every time they have a spirit week. That one went into the wacky Hat pile. And I learned my lesson not to cut half asleep.

Make Sure to Take Accurate Measurements for a Proper Fit

When sewing a beanie, accurate measurements are crucial for ensuring a proper fit. Start getting a head circumference measurement at its widest point, typically just above the ears. This measurement will determine the size pattern you need to create or choose. Additionally, measure the distance from the base of your neck to the top of your head to determine the desired length. Taking precise measurements will help you create a hat that fits comfortably and looks great when worn.

DIY Beanie Fabric Choices

The type of fabric you choose should be based on which View we are making. The View A can be made with a light to medium-weight knit fabric. I have used French Terry, Cotton Jersey and even sweatshirt Fleece. For View B & C, similar fabric choices work, but it works better with fabrics that have a good drape. Also, keep the stretch of fabric in mind....lots of stretch is better. Sweater Knits, DBP, Rib Knits, Waffle Knits and most of the lightweight Jersey work well.

Sewing a Beanie | 2 Different Ways

Alright, today I am going to make the View B with a seam version and View C Seamless Version. Let’s gather our supplies:

• Brighton Basic Beanie Pattern
• Fabric of Choice / Fabric for Lining Inside of Your Hat
• Pom Pom if using.
• Buttons / Snaps to attach the pom (Depending on the kind you are using)
• And all the other regular Sewing Supplies.

Sewing View B Beanie with a Bottom Seam

Step 1: Locate all the pattern pieces you need to cut out based on your choice! I use a projector and a straight edge to cut out all the pieces. And I need the View B Pattern pieces. I will cut it out on a single fold as I do the version with the bottom seam.

Step 2: Cut out the Main and Lining fabric. So here I have used the Plaid for the main and the Mountains for the lining. I need to cut out two pieces each for the main and the lining on the fold.

Step 3: Sew the darts together on all the 4 pieces.

Step 4: Place the main front and back on top of each other with right sides together and sew together.

Step 5: Place the lining piece front and back on top of each other with right sides touching. Sew them together leaving a 2″ gap for turning later.

Step 6: Turn the main right side out. Then, place the Main inside the lining with right sides touching and sew the bottom seam.

Step 7: Gently turn the Beanie right side out through the 2″ opening we left earlier. Now sew the opening closed. Since I wanted it to be reversible, I hand sewed the opening closed with a ladder stitch. You can sew them closed using a blind hem stitch or regular stitch.

Step 8: Top stitch the bottom hem. Since I wanted to use this reversible and didn’t want a stitch line at the hem, I did not top stitch. But top stitching the hem is suggested to keep the seam from rolling up or down while wearing.

Step 9: The last step is to add the pompom if you decide to put it on the top of the hat. Hand sew the snap piece onto the top if you're using a snap type. If you are using the loop or knot kind, sew on a button.

I am sewing two buttons. One on each side so that the pom pom can also be switched depending on which side I will use.

And that is it, the View B version is done. This can be worn as a Slouchy or a standard fit if you fold the bottom edge up for a faux band. One beanie, four different ways!

How to Sew a Beanie With a Seamless Bottom

View C is a true Slouchy Beanie hat. The Slouch is very pronounced. The more drapier the fabric we choose the slouchier. I am using a super drapey Sweater Knit to make this version today and I am sewing a Seamless Bottom Version.

The seamless bottom version is cut on double fold. Fold the fabric once vertically and then fold it again horizontally. Now align the fold lines on the pattern so that the bottom fold line is aligned to the horizontal fold and the fold line on the left is aligned to the vertical fold. Cut out one piece. When you open up the cut out piece, it will have 4 regular darts – 2 each on top & bottom and 2 curved darts – 1 each on top and bottom, between the two side by side pieces.

Step 1: Sew the 4 regular darts together like we did for the View B beanie.

Step 2: Fold the beanie in half Right sides together so that one side of the beanie is on top of the other.

Step 3: Sew around leaving a 2″ gap for turning all the way around starting at the curved darts.

Step 4: Turn the beanie right side out through the opening from the previous step.

Step 5: If you intend to make this reversible, hand sew the opening shut, if not, sew it shut using a straight stitch or blind hem. Please keep in mind the seamless version cannot use 2 different fabrics for a reversible look. While the Beanie will be reversible the same fabric will have to be used.

Step 6: Locate the center of the beanie. Holding the center in place, push one top end of the beanie into the other. You can leave the bottom unhemmed for this version.

Step 7: Sew in the Pom pom or buttons/snaps as applicable for a removable pom pom.

That is it! We did it! Aren’t the beanies a quick and easy pattern! I will add a few modeled pictures of my littlest wearing his beanies. I opted not to have a pom pom for the View C version for the pictures.

Tips for Sewing a Perfect, Professional-Looking Beanie

Alright - there you have it. Let's go through a few tips to help you sew the perfect beanie:

1. Choose the right fabric: Opt for knit fabrics that have a good amount of stretch. This will help ensure a snug fit and allow the beanie to comfortably mold to the wearer's head.
2. Use the correct needle and thread: When sewing with knit fabrics, it's important to use a ballpoint needle, as this type of needle is designed to slide between the fabric fibers without causing damage. Additionally, using polyester or nylon thread will provide the necessary strength and durability.
3. Take accurate measurements: Measure the circumference of the head for which you are making the beanie, as well as the desired height of the hat. This will help you determine how much fabric you need and ensure a proper fit.
4. Pay attention to seam finishes: To achieve clean and professional-looking seams, consider using techniques like serging, zigzag stitching, or using an overlock stitch on your sewing machine.
5. Experiment with decorative elements: Adding details such as pom-poms, patches, or appliques can elevate the look of your beanie and make it stand out from store-bought options.

Remember, practice makes perfect! Don't be discouraged if your first attempts aren't flawless – keep refining your skills and techniques, and soon you'll be sewing beanies that look like they came straight from a boutique.

How can you customize your beanie with different fabrics or decorations?

You can easily customize your beanie by using different fabrics or decorations. For fabrics, choose ones with unique patterns or colors to add a personal touch. You can also sew on patches, beads, or embroidery to give your beanie a personalized look that reflects your style and personality.

There you have it - now you know how to sew a beanie. This is a great project for winter sewing. Sewing your own beanie can be a fun and rewarding project, allowing you to create a personalized accessory that perfectly matches your style. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you'll have all the knowledge and skills you need to confidently sew your own beanie. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sewer, this project is suitable for all skill levels. So gather your materials, fire up your sewing machine, and get ready to create a cozy and fashionable beanie that will keep you warm all winter long.

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