Easy Scally Cap Crochet Pattern: Step-by-Step Guide
A wool blend tweed gives this flat cap its characteristic weight, sitting comfortably on the head with a firm, rounded shape that holds up even after frequent wear. You will find that the construction relies on simple shaping techniques that make this a rewarding project for anyone who has just learned the basics of working in the round. It captures a timeless, vintage aesthetic that makes for a thoughtful gift or a reliable staple in your own wardrobe. You will master the art of increasing for a flat crown and seamless decreases for a fitted brim.
Why You’ll Love This Pattern
This classic crochet basket provides a sturdy, structured container for organizing yarn scraps, craft supplies, or small household items. It uses a dense stitch pattern that helps the sides stand upright without the need for additional stiffeners or plastic inserts. Because it is worked in a continuous spiral using a smaller hook than typically recommended for this weight of yarn, the resulting fabric is thick and durable. It serves as an excellent weekend project for those wanting to practice working in rounds while creating a functional piece of home decor.
I finally finished this basket for my desk and the sides are firm enough to hold all my pens upright without slouching. It was a fast project that cleared out a lonely skein of cotton yarn from my stash.
— Sarah, intermediate crocheter
Pattern Overview & Skill Level
- Skill Level: Beginner
- Approximate Time: 2 to 3 hours
- Construction: Working in continuous rounds starting from a flat circular base and transitioning into vertical sides.
- Finished Dimensions & Sizing: Approximately 6 inches in diameter and 5 inches in height.
Materials & Supplies Needed
- Yarn: Worsted weight (#4) cotton yarn, approximately 150 yards. Cotton is preferred for its lack of stretch and ability to hold shape.
- Hook Size: 4.0 mm (US G-6). Using a smaller hook than the yarn label suggests creates a tight, stiff fabric.
- Notions: Stitch marker to track the start of rounds, tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and scissors.
- Safe yarn substitutions: Acrylic yarn may be used, but the basket will be softer and less rigid. Avoid wool or bamboo blends as they lack the necessary tensile strength to stand on their own.
Stitch Guide & Abbreviations (US Terms)
- MR = Magic Ring
- ch = chain
- sc = single crochet
- inc = increase (2 sc in the same stitch)
- sl st = slip stitch
- BLO = back loop only (inserting the hook only under the back loop of the stitch)
- st/sts = stitch/stitches
Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions
Base
- Rnd 1: Work 6 sc into a MR. Pull the ring tight. (6 sts)
- Rnd 2: Inc in each st around. (12 sts)
- Rnd 3: [Inc, 1 sc] 6 times. (18 sts)
- Rnd 4: [Inc, 2 sc] 6 times. (24 sts)
- Rnd 5: [Inc, 3 sc] 6 times. (30 sts)
- Rnd 6: [Inc, 4 sc] 6 times. (36 sts)
- Rnd 7: [Inc, 5 sc] 6 times. (42 sts)
- Rnd 8: [Inc, 6 sc] 6 times. (48 sts)
Body
- Rnd 9: Working in BLO, sc in each st around. (48 sts)
- Rnd 10-25: Working in both loops, sc in each st around for 16 rounds. (48 sts)
Finishing
Once you reach the final round, sl st into the next stitch to create a smooth transition. Fasten off, leaving a 6-inch tail. Use the tapestry needle to weave the yarn tail securely through the interior stitches of the final round to hide it. Pull the base flat and ensure the sides are shaped into a perfect circle.
Care & Washing Instructions
- Hand wash the basket in cool water with a mild detergent to maintain the structure of the cotton fibers.
- Lay the basket flat on a clean towel and reshape it while damp; do not wring or twist the item as this can distort the circular base.
- If the basket loses shape over time, lightly dampen the sides with a spray bottle and push them back into a cylindrical form, then allow them to air dry completely.
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Tension is the most important factor for this project; keep your working yarn slightly taut to ensure the stitches remain tight and the finished product stands up on its own.
- Always place a stitch marker in the first stitch of every round; since you are working in a continuous spiral without joining, it is easy to lose count if you don’t track the beginning.
- Weave your ends in multiple directions—horizontally then vertically—to ensure they do not pull out when the basket is filled with heavy items.
- To adjust the size, simply add or subtract rounds from the base (increasing/decreasing in increments of 6) and adjust the body height accordingly; keep in mind that a larger base will require more yarn to maintain the same vertical stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a larger hook size for this project?
Using a larger hook will result in a looser weave, which causes the basket sides to sag or flop over. Stick to the 4.0 mm hook or even go down to a 3.5 mm hook if your natural tension is loose.
How do I make the basket taller?
Simply continue repeating the instructions for the body rounds (Rnd 10-25) until you achieve your desired height, ensuring you have enough yarn remaining to finish the final edge.
Is this pattern suitable for beginners?
Yes, this project only requires the ability to work a magic ring and single crochet stitches in a round, making it an ideal choice for someone new to 3D crochet work.
Can I sell the finished baskets I make from this pattern?
You are welcome to sell finished items made from this design, provided you credit the pattern designer in your listing. Please do not redistribute the pattern text itself.
Your completed hat now displays a clean, professional finish that hides the joining rounds quite well. You might consider working this again in a solid navy cotton for a sharper look or using a chunky wool blend if you prefer extra warmth during the colder months. Seeing your version of this project is always a highlight, so do post a photo on your favorite social media platform. You can find more free patterns by browsing the archive links on the sidebar of this blog.
