Measurements and basic pattern for hats, scarves and blankets
Before casting on, it's helpful to know what measurements we're looking for and how to translate them into our knitting. This guide brings together practical references for hats, scarves, and blankets , with clear charts and a basic hat pattern that you can adapt to any yarn. The hat measurements have been adjusted to the Craft Yarn Council (CYC) ranges, so they serve as a reliable standard. Remember that these are guidelines: the final fit will depend on your knitting sample, the stitch chosen, and the elasticity of the fiber.
Hats: measurements and basic pattern
A hat knitted in the round is usually constructed in two parts: first the crown , where we increase to give shape, and then a straight section without increasing until reaching the full length. To ensure the hat hugs the head gently, we usually work with a hat circumference that is slightly smaller (approximately -10%) than the CYC recommended head circumference.
| Hats | Total circumference (cm) | Total length (cm) | Upper section increasing (cm) | Straight section without increases (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baby 0 M | 30 | 12.5 | 4.5 | 8 |
| Baby 1 M | 32 | 13.5 | 5 | 8.5 |
| Baby 3 M | 34 | 14.5 | 5.5 | 9 |
| Baby 6 M | 37 | 15.5 | 6 | 9.5 |
| Baby 12 M | 39 | 16.5 | 6.5 | 10 |
| Baby 18 M | 41 | 17.5 | 7 | 10.5 |
| Baby 24 M | 43 | 18.5 | 7.5 | 11 |
| Child | 48 | 20 | 8 | 12 |
| Juvenile (S) | 51 | 21.5 | 8.5 | 13 |
| Woman (M) | 53 | 22.5 | 9 | 13.5 |
| Man (L) | 56 | 23.5 | 9.5 | 14 |
Basic pattern for a round knitted hat
We'll work the example in single crochet (you can adapt the logic to other stitches). Start with a magic circle and increase evenly until you reach the top section of the table; then continue straight across to the full length .
a) Increasing section (crown)
- Round 0: magic circle, knit 6 single crochet stitches .
- Round 1: all increases → 12 stitches.
- Round 2: 1 sc, 1 inc rep. → 18 stitches.
- Round 3: 2 sc, 1 inc rep. → 24 stitches.
- Round 4: 3 sc, 1 inc rep. → 30 stitches.
Continue with the same logic ( X sc, 1 inc ) until you reach the diameter that gives you the upper section increasing in centimeters. In each round you will get 6 more stitches than in the previous round.
b) Straight section without increases
When you reach the top measurement, continue knitting all rows with the same number of stitches until you reach the full length of your size. Finish with a finishing row or elastic if desired.
Scarves: approximate widths and lengths
Scarves allow you to play with texture and drape. For reference, a narrower width feels light and elegant, while a medium or wide width provides warmth and volume. The length can range from "practical size" (wrap once) to "wrap size" (twice and knot).
| Guy | Width (cm) | Length (cm) | Grades |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baby (0–24 M) | 10–15 | 60–80 | Use soft knits; alternative: a panty collar. |
| Child | 15–18 | 100–120 | Long enough for one lap. |
| Adult narrows | 18–22 | 160–180 | Lightweight; ideal in garter or stretch knit. |
| Classic adult | 20–25 | 180–200 | Coat/volume balance. |
| Infinite (circumf.) | 22–28 | 120–150 | Join ends; two turns around the neck. |
Blankets: sizes by use
For blankets, first consider the use and location : stroller, crib, sofa, or bed. From there, translate the desired width into stitches using your swatch, allowing for a margin if the stitch "grows" after washing.
| Use | Size (width × length, cm) | Grades |
|---|---|---|
| Carrycot / stroller | 45 × 60 | Compact and lightweight. |
| Cradle | 75 × 100 | Versatile baby size. |
| Large crib | 80 × 120 | Extra coverage. |
| Sofa / throw | 100 × 140 | For the living room, reading and nap. |
| Bed 90 | 140 × 200 | Single mattress cover. |
| Bed 135 | 180 × 220 | Good side skirt. |
| Bed 150 | 200 × 220 | For standard double bed. |
How to calculate points from your sample
Once you've chosen your final measurement, use your sample to convert centimeters to points:
Cast on stitches = (desired width in cm × stitches in your sample in 10 cm) ÷ 10
Rows to knit = (desired height in cm × rows of your sample in 10 cm) ÷ 10
Example: If your gauge is 18 stitches × 25 rows on 10 cm and you want a scarf 22 cm wide by 180 cm long, you would cast on (22×18)/10 ≈ 40 stitches and knit (180×25)/10 = approximately 450 rows . Adjust to the multiple required by your pattern or elastic.
Knit with materials that inspire you
Discover Idealium yarns and our knitting patterns . Choose your next project and enjoy the process.
