If you’re looking for an easy knit hat pattern, this one’s a winner! See more hat patterns at my hat pattern page.
There’s something incredibly satisfying about casting on a project that hits the sweet spot between looking fancy and feeling fuss-free. That’s exactly what happened with the Damask Hat—an easy knit hat pattern that became a family favorite practically overnight.
I mean, when a project gets the stamp of approval from my kids, my husband, and my yarn basket (which is now short one skein of Cascade 220 Superwash yarn (affiliate link)), I know it’s a keeper.
Why I Love This Easy Knit Hat Pattern
Let’s start with the basics: this easy knit hat pattern is textured, timeless, and totally beginner-friendly. I wanted something I could work on during a movie night or while chatting with my kids—and this one delivered. It looks way more complicated than it actually is (shh, don’t tell).
The design reminds me of vintage damask wallpaper—those fancy, ornate patterns that feel a little posh but still homey. According to my 9-year-old, it looks just like the wallpaper in our living room, which honestly cracked me up because she’s not wrong.
Texture That Looks Fancy (But Isn’t)
What really drew me to this easy knit hat pattern was the texture. Created using just knit and purl stitches, it builds up into this subtly rich surface that’s fancy without being fussy. And because it’s just alternating those two classic stitches, it’s the kind of thing you can knit without needing to look at the pattern every three seconds.
Each row builds on the last, and you slowly start to see the design blossom right under your needles. I may or may not have stayed up past midnight watching it unfold row by row like a dramatic Netflix series.
Perfect for Adventurous Beginners
Now, don’t let the beautiful texture intimidate you. This easy knit hat pattern is ideal if you’re a confident beginner ready to level up. You’ll need to know how to knit, purl, and work in the round—but nothing too wild.
In fact, I used this pattern to help teach my kids a little more about how texture works in knitting. My oldest helped me count stitches, and my middle child declared it was “the prettiest hat ever,” so you can guess who now owns the first one.
Let’s Talk Yarn
For my version, I reached for Cascade 220 Superwash yarn (affiliate link). It’s soft, durable, and—huge perk—machine washable. That’s a must around here with eight kiddos and no time to hand-wash anything that doesn’t absolutely require it.
Cascade 220 Superwash yarn (affiliate link) also comes in a huge range of colors. I went with a deep, moody blue for this version, but I’ve already picked out a mustard yellow and a classic charcoal for the next two.
Knitting the Damask Hat
Once you cast on, the easy knit hat pattern really shines. The texture is made up of a rhythmic repeat that feels like a meditation session in yarn form. I knitted most of it while chatting with my family, which honestly made the whole thing even more enjoyable.
There’s something about watching those knit and purl combos form a structured texture that just never gets old.
Watching the Texture Come Alive
One of my favorite parts of this easy knit hat pattern is how the texture slowly emerges. At first, you’re just doing your knit and purl thing, and then—boom—it suddenly looks intricate and refined.
It’s that moment when you hold it up to admire your work and feel a little extra proud of what you’ve created. Trust me, you’ll have that moment with this one.
A Family Favorite in the Making
This hat didn’t just get knit and tossed in a drawer. Oh no, it became the it hat in our household. My husband—who usually doesn’t comment on my knitting unless it’s a giant blanket or involves snacks—actually said it looked “really nice.” High praise, right?
My kids all wanted to try it on, and I’m already fielding requests for their own. That’s the magic of an easy knit hat pattern that looks like you bought it from a boutique but was actually made on the couch in your comfiest sweatpants.
Why You’ll Love Making It Too
Here’s what you’ll love about this easy knit hat pattern:
- It’s fast enough to knit over a weekend
- It’s interesting without being complicated
- It looks way more advanced than it really is
- It’s cozy, comfy, and customizable in any color of Cascade 220 Superwash yarn (affiliate link)
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or someone who just mastered ribbing, this project brings satisfaction without stress.
Tips for Success with This Easy Knit Hat Pattern
Just a few pointers I picked up along the way:
- Use stitch markers to track the repeats if you’re a newer knitter.
- Go ahead and block it lightly when you’re done—it really helps the texture pop.
- Don’t be afraid to play with color. This easy knit hat pattern looks amazing in solids, but it could shine in a heather or tonal, too. Cascade 220 Superwash yarn (affiliate link) has tons of options.
Want More Hat Patterns?
This is just one of many cozy, beginner-friendly hats in my collection. If you’re on a hat kick (like I clearly am), head over to my free hat pattern page for more inspiration.
From chunky brims to textured stitches to simple classics, there’s something for every head in the family.
THIS Easy Knit Hat Pattern Is at the Bottom of the Post
And yep—this easy knit hat pattern (aka the Damask Hat) is available as a free download at the bottom of this post. So keep scrolling and grab it when you’re ready!
The Final Stitch
The Damask Hat has totally earned its spot in my favorite projects list. It checks every box: quick to knit, fun to make, looks fancy, feels cozy, and impresses even the toughest critics (aka husbands and children).
If you’re hunting for an easy knit hat pattern that’ll leave you feeling like a knitting superstar without breaking a sweat, this is it.
So grab your Cascade 220 Superwash yarn (affiliate link), pour a warm drink, and cast on. Your next favorite hat is just a few rows away.
Materials and Info
Yarn – 1 skein Cascade 220 superwash 220 (affiliate link) (100g 220yd) for newborn thru small adult 2 skeins for large adult
Gauge – 20x28sts per 4x4in or 10x10cm
Needles – 7 (4.5mm) circular and/or dpn
Other –yarn needle, cable needle, optional – fur pompom
Sizes – (newborn, baby), (toddler, child), (small adult, large adult)
Head Measurement – (30-35, 35-40), (40-45, 45-50), (50-55, 55-60)cms or (12-14, 14-16), (16-18, 18-20), (20-22, 22-24)ins
ABBREVIATIONS
k – knit
P – purl
st – stitch
k2tog – knit the next 2 sts together
Damask Hat Pattern
NEWBORN
Cast on 60 using your favorite stretchy cast on.
Join in the round.
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing for 2.5in (6.25cms).
Round 1 – [k3, p1, k1, p1] around
Round 2 – [k3, p3] around
Round 3 – repeat round 1
Round 4 – repeat round 2
Round 5 – repeat round 1
Round 6 – [p1, k1, p1, k3] around
Round 7 – [p3, k3] around
Round 8 – repeat round 6
Round 9 – repeat round 7
Round 10 – repeat round 6
Repeat rounds 1-10 until your work measures 6.5ins (16.25cms) ending after completing a round 5 or 10.
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [k2tog, k4] around (50sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k2tog, k3] around (40sts)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2tog, k2] around (30sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog, k1] around (20sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around (10sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving 9 -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the top tight. Weave in ends. Block as desired.
BABY
Cast on 72 using your favorite stretchy cast on.
Join in the round.
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing for 3in (7cms).
Round 1 – [k3, p1, k1, p1] around
Round 2 – [k3, p3] around
Round 3 – repeat round 1
Round 4 – repeat round 2
Round 5 – repeat round 1
Round 6 – [p1, k1, p1, k3] around
Round 7 – [p3, k3] around
Round 8 – repeat round 6
Round 9 – repeat round 7
Round 10 – repeat round 6
Repeat rounds 1-10 until your work measures 8ins (20cms) ending after completing a round 5 or 10.
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [k2tog, k4] around (60sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k2tog, k3] around (48sts)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2tog, k2] around (36sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog, k1] around (24sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around (12sts)
Round 9 – [k2tog] around (6sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving 9 -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the top tight. Weave in ends. Block as desired.
TODDLER
Cast on 78 using your favorite stretchy cast on.
Join in the round.
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing for 3in (7cms).
Round 1 – [k3, p1, k1, p1] around
Round 2 – [k3, p3] around
Round 3 – repeat round 1
Round 4 – repeat round 2
Round 5 – repeat round 1
Round 6 – [p1, k1, p1, k3] around
Round 7 – [p3, k3] around
Round 8 – repeat round 6
Round 9 – repeat round 7
Round 10 – repeat round 6
Repeat rounds 1-10 until your work measures 9ins (22.5cms) ending after completing a round 5 or 10.
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [k2tog, k4] around (65sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k2tog, k3] around (52sts)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2tog, k2] around (39sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog, k1] around (26sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around (13sts)
Round 9 – [k2tog] around to last st, k1 (7sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving 9 -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the top tight. Weave in ends. Block as desired.
CHILD
Cast on 90 using your favorite stretchy cast on.
Join in the round.
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing for 3in (7cms).
Round 1 – [k3, p1, k1, p1] around
Round 2 – [k3, p3] around
Round 3 – repeat round 1
Round 4 – repeat round 2
Round 5 – repeat round 1
Round 6 – [p1, k1, p1, k3] around
Round 7 – [p3, k3] around
Round 8 – repeat round 6
Round 9 – repeat round 7
Round 10 – repeat round 6
Repeat rounds 1-10 until your work measures 10ins (25cms) ending after completing a round 5 or 10.
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [k2tog, k4] around (75sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k2tog, k3] around (60sts)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2tog, k2] around (45sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog, k1] around (30sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around (15sts)
Round 9 – [k2tog] around to last st, k1 (8sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving 9 -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the top tight. Weave in ends. Block as desired.
SMALL ADULT
Cast on 102 using your favorite stretchy cast on.
Join in the round.
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing for 3in (7cms).
Round 1 – [k3, p1, k1, p1] around
Round 2 – [k3, p3] around
Round 3 – repeat round 1
Round 4 – repeat round 2
Round 5 – repeat round 1
Round 6 – [p1, k1, p1, k3] around
Round 7 – [p3, k3] around
Round 8 – repeat round 6
Round 9 – repeat round 7
Round 10 – repeat round 6
Repeat rounds 1-10 until your work measures 11ins (27.5cms) ending after completing a round 5 or 10.
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [k2tog, k4] around (85sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k2tog, k3] around (68sts)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2tog, k2] around (51sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog, k1] around (34sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around (17sts)
Round 9 – [k2tog] around to last st, k1 (9sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving 9 -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the top tight. Weave in ends. Block as desired.
LARGE ADULT
Cast on 108 using your favorite stretchy cast on.
Join in the round.
Work in [k1, p1] ribbing for 3in (7cms).
Round 1 – [k3, p1, k1, p1] around
Round 2 – [k3, p3] around
Round 3 – repeat round 1
Round 4 – repeat round 2
Round 5 – repeat round 1
Round 6 – [p1, k1, p1, k3] around
Round 7 – [p3, k3] around
Round 8 – repeat round 6
Round 9 – repeat round 7
Round 10 – repeat round 6
Repeat rounds 1-10 until your work measures 12ins (30cms) ending after completing a round 5 or 10.
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [k2tog, k4] around (90sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k2tog, k3] around (72sts)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2tog, k2] around (54sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k2tog, k1] around (36sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around (18sts)
Round 9 – [k2tog] around (9sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving 9 -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the top tight. Weave in ends. Block as desired.
Damask Hat PDF
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