Get cozy with this free ripple knit beanie pattern that’s at the bottom of the post! Find more hats on my hat pattern page.
There’s just something about a ripple texture that gets me every time. When I first dreamed up this free ripple knit beanie pattern, I had no idea it would become one of my absolute favorites. Inspired by the fir trees lining our local forest trails, the ripple stitch felt like the perfect way to capture that natural, zigzag beauty. I call it the Juniper Hat, and it’s the kind of knit that feels like a walk in the woods—peaceful, satisfying, and just the right amount of adventure.
Why I Designed This Free Ripple Knit Beanie Pattern
It all started with a walk. The trees stood tall, their branches tracing little waves against the sky. I couldn’t shake the thought that those zigzag silhouettes belonged in a knit. That’s where the ripple stitch came in. The peaks and valleys mimic the firs so beautifully, and I knew this free ripple knit beanie pattern had to happen.
I wanted to create something that felt like nature in yarn form—something serene, textured, and wearable. This ripple design isn’t just about looks either. It has a rhythm that makes knitting the hat almost meditative. Once I got going, I was hooked.
Let’s Talk Yarn (Cascade 220 Superwash – affiliate link)
For a project like this, the yarn matters so much. I needed something that would show off the ripple stitch in all its glory while still being soft enough to wear every day. Enter: Cascade 220 Superwash (affiliate link). It’s my go-to worsted-weight yarn when I want the stitches to pop and the end result to feel extra cozy.
Cascade 220 Superwash (affiliate link) has this buttery smooth texture that makes the ripple stitch look clean and crisp, even if you’re still mastering the pattern. And the color range? Don’t even get me started. For this beanie, I chose a deep forest green—fitting, right?
Every time I knit with Cascade 220 Superwash (affiliate link), it’s a reminder of why I keep it stocked in my stash. It’s reliable, easy to wash (hello, superwash wool!), and gives just the right amount of squish.
Getting Started on the Free Ripple Knit Beanie Pattern
The pattern starts with a nice snug 1×1 ribbed brim. It keeps the hat stretchy and helps it stay in place without squeezing your head. Then comes the fun part: the ripple section.
Now, if you’ve never tried a ripple (aka chevron) stitch before, don’t worry. It takes a little focus, but it’s not hard once you find the rhythm. You’re increasing and decreasing in just the right places to make those gentle waves. And watching the pattern unfold row by row? So satisfying.
The Cascade 220 Superwash (affiliate link) glides like a dream on my needles during this part. No splitting. No fuss. Just beautiful, clean stitch definition.
The Finished Juniper Hat
I wish I could let you reach through the screen and touch this hat. It’s soft, but with enough structure to really show off the texture. That ripple stitch gives the hat some serious personality—plus a whole lot of warmth without making it too bulky.
This free ripple knit beanie pattern works great for both guys and gals, and I love how versatile the look is. You can wear it with your go-to flannel and boots, or dress it up with a nice coat and scarf. It’s like having a piece of the forest wrapped around your head—and that’s not something you can buy at the store.
Why You’ll Love This Free Ripple Knit Beanie Pattern
- Unisex and stylish: Works for everyone!
- Great texture: That ripple stitch gives so much depth.
- Mindful knitting: The stitch pattern keeps things interesting without being stressful.
- Perfect for gifting: Because who wouldn’t want a handmade hat that feels this good?
Oh—and it only takes one skein of Cascade 220 Superwash (affiliate link). Bonus!
Tips for Knitting Your Own Juniper Hat
If you’re ready to cast on this free ripple knit beanie pattern, here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Pick the Right Yarn
Yes, I’ve already raved about Cascade 220 Superwash (affiliate link), but I’ll say it again—it’s worth it. The stitch definition and softness make it ideal for this pattern.
2. Swatch for Gauge
I know, I know… swatching isn’t fun. But if you want the ripple stitch to look just right and the hat to fit perfectly, it’s worth the extra few rows.
3. Use Stitch Markers
Ripple patterns can get off track fast if you’re not paying attention. Stitch markers are your best friends here. They’ll help you track those increases and decreases with ease.
4. Enjoy the Rhythm
This free ripple knit beanie pattern really shines when you relax into the rhythm. Put on some music or a cozy podcast and let your hands do the work.
Share the Ripple Love
When I released this pattern to my community, the feedback was incredible. I loved seeing how others made it their own—changing up the colors, adding a pom-pom, or knitting one for every member of the family. That’s the beauty of a pattern like this: it’s flexible, fun, and feels like a little hug from nature.
Knitting is more than a hobby; it’s a way to slow down, savor the moment, and create something meaningful. Every stitch in this free ripple knit beanie pattern carries that peaceful forest walk with it, and I hope it brings you the same joy it brought me.
Looking for More?
If you’re on a hat-making roll, I’ve got plenty more where that came from! You can find all of my free hat knitting patterns right over on the hat pattern page. There are patterns for every skill level and season—whether you’re craving cables, colorwork, or something super simple.
But THIS free ripple knit beanie pattern? It’s right down at the bottom of this post! So don’t scroll away just yet.
Materials and Info
Yarn –1 skein Cascade 220 (100g 220yd) (affiliate link)
Gauge – 20x28sts per 4x4in or 10x10cm
Needles – 7 (4.5mm) circular and/or dpn
Other –yarn 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
Abbreviation
k – knit
P – purl
sl – slip stitch
st – stitch
k2tog -knit 2 stitches together
m1r – insert right needle front to back under the strand between 2 sts, lift a loop onto left needle, knit into the back of the loop to form a new stitch
m1l – insert right needle back to front under the strand between 2 sts, lift a loop onto left needle, knit into the front of the loop to form a new stitch
vdd – slip the next 2 stitches on the left needle as if to knit them together and then slip them off the left needle and onto the right needle, knit the next st, pass slipped stitches over the knitted stitch together
Juniper Hat Pattern
NEWBORN
Cast on 60 using your favorite stretchy cast on.
Join in the round.
Ktbl1P1 around until you have reached 1.25ins (3cms) from cast on edge.
Round 1 – knit around
Round 2 – [k1, m1r, k3, vdd, k3, m1l] Repeat around
Repeat rounds 1 and 2 until your work measures appx 4ins (10cms) ending after completing a round 1.
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [k4, vdd, k3] around (48sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k3, vdd, k2] around (36sts)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2, vdd, k1] around (24sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k1, vdd] around (12sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around (6sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the top tight. Weave in ends. Block as desired.
BABY
Cast on 70 using your favorite stretchy cast on.
Join in the round.
Ktbl1P1 around until you have reached 1.25ins (3cms) from cast on edge.
Round 1 – knit around
Round 2 – [k1, m1r, k3, vdd, k3, m1l] Repeat around
Repeat rounds 1 and 2 until your work measures appx 5ins (12.5cms) ending after completing a round 1.
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [k4, vdd, k3] around (56sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k3, vdd, k2] around (42sts)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2, vdd, k1] around (28sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k1, vdd] around (14sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around (7sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the top tight. Weave in ends. Block as desired.
TODDLER
Cast on 80 using your favorite stretchy cast on.
Join in the round.
Ktbl1P1 around until you have reached 1.25ins (3cms) from cast on edge.
Round 1 – knit around
Round 2 – [k1, m1r, k3, vdd, k3, m1l] Repeat around
Repeat rounds 1 and 2 until your work measures appx 6ins (15cms) ending after completing a round 1.
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [k4, vdd, k3] around (64sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k3, vdd, k2] around (48sts)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2, vdd, k1] around (32sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k1, vdd] around (16sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around (8sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -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.
Ktbl1P1 around until you have reached 1.25ins (3cms) from cast on edge.
Round 1 – knit around
Round 2 – [k1, m1r, k3, vdd, k3, m1l] Repeat around
Repeat rounds 1 and 2 until your work measures appx 7ins (17.5cms) ending after completing a round 1.
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [k4, vdd, k3] around (72sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k3, vdd, k2] around (54sts)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2, vdd, k1] around (36sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k1, vdd] around (18sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around (9sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the top tight. Weave in ends. Block as desired.
SMALL ADULT
Cast on 100 using your favorite stretchy cast on.
Join in the round.
Ktbl1P1 around until you have reached 1.25ins (3cms) from cast on edge.
Round 1 – knit around
Round 2 – [k1, m1r, k3, vdd, k3, m1l] Repeat around
Repeat rounds 1 and 2 until your work measures appx 8ins (20cms) ending after completing a round 1.
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [k4, vdd, k3] around (80sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k3, vdd, k2] around (60sts)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2, vdd, k1] around (40sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k1, vdd] around (20sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around (10sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the top tight. Weave in ends. Block as desired.
LARGE ADULT
Cast on 110 using your favorite stretchy cast on.
Join in the round.
Ktbl1P1 around until you have reached 1.25ins (3cms) from cast on edge.
Round 1 – knit around
Round 2 – [k1, m1r, k3, vdd, k3, m1l] Repeat around
Repeat rounds 1 and 2 until your work measures appx 9ins (22.5cms) ending after completing a round 1.
Switch to dpn when necessary.
DECREASES
Round 1 – [k4, vdd, k3] around (88sts)
Round 2 – knit around
Round 3 – [k3, vdd, k2] around (66sts)
Round 4 – knit around
Round 5 – [k2, vdd, k1] around (44sts)
Round 6 – knit around
Round 7 – [k1, vdd] around (22sts)
Round 8 – [k2tog] around (11sts)
Do not bind off. Cut yarn leaving appx -10ins. Pull yarn through remaining stitches and cinch the top tight. Weave in ends. Block as desired.
Juniper Hat PDF
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