Best Yarn for Hats

Warm, non-itchy yarns for cozy beanies, slouchy hats, and quick handmade gifts.

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What Makes Great Hat Yarn?

Hats are quick, satisfying projects perfect for gift-giving. The best hat yarns are warm without being heavy, soft against the forehead, and stretchy enough to fit comfortably. Wool's natural elasticity makes it ideal for hats.

Key Considerations

  • Softness: Hats touch your forehead and ears—no scratchy yarns!
  • Elasticity: Hats need stretch to fit. Wool and wool blends work best.
  • Warmth: Wool, alpaca, and acrylic all provide good warmth.
  • Washability: Consider superwash for gifts—not everyone hand washes.

Our Top Hat Yarn Picks

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Cascade

220 Superwash

Worsted Machine Washable

Perfect hat yarn. Warm, soft, machine washable, and available in hundreds of colors.

~$12 View on Amazon
Malabrigo

Rios

Worsted Hand-Dyed

Gorgeous hand-dyed merino. Incredibly soft against skin. Worth it for gift hats.

~$16 View on Amazon
Lion Brand

Wool-Ease

Worsted Budget

Wool-acrylic blend for warmth with easy care. Great value for multiple hats.

~$7 View on Amazon
Lion Brand

Wool-Ease Thick & Quick

Bulky Quick Knit

Finish a hat in one evening. Warm and cozy bulky weight.

~$8 View on Amazon
Malabrigo

Rasta

Super Bulky Luxury

Single-ply merino for super quick, super soft hats. Gorgeous colors.

~$22 View on Amazon
Drops

Alpaca

DK Hypoallergenic

Pure alpaca for those with wool sensitivities. Incredibly warm and soft.

~$4 View on Amazon

Hat Knitting Tips

Yardage Needed

Most adult hats use 100-150 yards of worsted weight. Bulky weight uses less. Buy one skein and you'll likely have enough for matching mittens.

Fit Tips

Hats should have 1-2" of negative ease. Measure the recipient's head and subtract 1-2" for a snug fit that won't fall off.