How to Take Head Measurements for Making Hats

Last Updated: March 29, 2022

If you're looking to get into the art of hat making or are just tired of ill-fitting hats, try taking your own head measurements and get a hat tailored to you.

Hat Size Chart

Sample Hat Size Chart

Method 1

Method 1 of 1:

Taking Head Measurements for Hats

1
Measure around the head. Start with tape line at center of your forehead on hairline. Run the tape line around head, under the bulge at back of your head and back to front to meet the tape line again. This measurement is your correct head-size.^{[1]
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Research source}
- Average head size measurements range from 21" (53cm) to 23" (58cm) in half sizes.
2
Measure your head from back to front. Decide where you will wear your hat, either sitting further back or forward on your head. Mark this point and start the tape line on the mark. Run the tape line over the top of your head and just over the bulge on the back of your head.^{[2]
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- This is the back to front measurement and usually measures 9 1/2" (24cm) to 10 1/2" (26.5cm).
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3
Measure your head from side to side. Start the tape line where the edge of your hat will sit to the same point on the opposite side of your head near your ear.
- This is the side to side measurement and usually measures 10" (25.5cm) to 10 1/2" (26.5cm).
4
Finished.^{[3]
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Research source
Ruby Carnahan, (1952) <i>How to Make Hats</i>, copyright not renewed, book in public domain.}