Pattern Description
The Sunny Bucket Hat is a stylish, reversible bucket hat designed for confident beginners and intermediate makers.
Combining classic shape with a modern twist, it offers two distinct looks in one thanks to its double-sided design.
The lightweight brim provides sun protection, while the structured panels keep the hat comfortable and fashionable for everyday wear.
Materials Need & Measurements:
- Yarn: Instead of yarn, this pattern uses woven cotton fabrics for a crisp, structured finish. Choose two coordinating quilting cottons or poplins for a reversible effect.
- Yarn Weight: Fabrics should be light to medium weight, such as quilting cotton or lightweight canvas.
- Notions:
- 1/2 yard of Fabric A (outer side)
- 1/2 yard of Fabric B (lining/reverse side)
- 1/2 yard of lightweight fusible interfacing
- Matching sewing thread
- Fabric scissors or rotary cutter
- Pins or clips
- Iron and ironing board
- Measurements: Finished hat typically fits an average adult head, roughly 22-23 inches circumference (56-58 cm). The brim adds gentle shade around the face and neck.
Instructions for Making the Sunny Bucket Hat Pattern:
Step 1: Prepare and Cut Pieces
- Download and print the pattern templates included in the PDF.
- Cut two brim pieces, two side pieces, and one top circle from Fabric A.
- Repeat the same from Fabric B.
- Cut matching interfacing for the brim and side pieces only (not the top circle).
Step 2: Fuse Interfacing
- Iron the interfacing onto the wrong side of the brim and side pieces for both Fabric A and Fabric B.
- This step adds body to the hat so the brim holds its shape.
Step 3: Assemble the Side Band
- Place the two side pieces (of Fabric A) right sides together and sew the short ends to form a loop.
- Repeat for Fabric B side pieces.
- Press seams open.
Step 4: Attach the Top
- With right sides together, pin the top circle piece to the top edge of the side band loop (Fabric A).
- Sew carefully around the circle, easing the fabric to fit smoothly.
- Repeat for Fabric B.
Step 5: Sew the Brim Pieces
- Place the two brim pieces of Fabric A right sides together and sew the short ends to form a loop.
- Repeat for Fabric B.
- Press seams open.
Step 6: Attach Brim to Side Band
- Pin the brim loop to the bottom edge of the side band loop (Fabric A), right sides together.
- Sew around the brim edge.
- Repeat for Fabric B.
Step 7: Join Outer and Lining Hats
- Turn one hat piece (Fabric B side) right side out, and keep the other (Fabric A) inside out.
- Place the right side out hat inside the other hat so the right sides are together.
- Align and pin the raw brim edges all around.
Step 8: Sew and Turn
- Sew around the outer edge of the brim, leaving a small opening.
- Turn the hat right side out through the opening.
- Push out seams and press neatly with an iron.
Step 9: Topstitch
- Topstitch around the brim’s outer edge to close the opening and add strength.
- For a classic look, add additional topstitching lines 1/4 inch apart around the brim.
Extra Tips
- Use pins or clips generously to manage curved seams.
- Press seams as you go; it helps keep the hat crisp and professional-looking.
- Choose contrasting fabrics for a fun, bold reversible hat or keep both sides in similar tones for a subtle effect.
Final Thoughts
The Sunny Bucket Hat is an ideal weekend project, even for newer sewists ready to explore curved seams and topstitching.
With just half a yard of each fabric, you can create a lightweight, packable hat perfect for sunny days, beach trips, or festivals.
The reversible design means double the style with the same effort, making it as fun to wear as it is to make.
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