How to Crochet Fly Bonnets

Flies are not a horse's best friend, but a fly bonnet can be. A horse has limited ammunition against the onslaught of these flying pests. A fly bonnet provides a safe and natural fly remedy. Although fly bonnets can be purchased from animal supply stores, those who know how to crochet can make a handcrafted bonnet. A crocheted bonnet is not only practical but also attractive. This project is well-suited for the intermediate or advanced crocheter.

Make a gauge swatch in order to find the proper size crochet hook. Make the swatch nineteen single crochet stitches in width and eleven rows tall. The finished swatch should measure 4-by-4 inches. If the swatch is too large, switch to a smaller hook, and if too small, switch to a larger hook. Make a new swatch each time you change the hook. Repeat this process until the swatch comes out perfect. This will ensure you have the proper size hook to make the proper measurements for the fly bonnet.

Chain 86 chain stitches with the selected yarn. Make one double crochet stitch into each chain stitch. Make three chain stitches each time you turn. These four rows are the front headband for the fly bonnet.

Crochet 16 double crochet stitches over the next 16 stitches to make row five. Turn in the opposite direction.

Skip the first double crochet in the previous step. Make 15 double crochet stitches over the next 15 stitches. Turn in the opposite direction.

Crochet 14 double crochet stitches for the next three rows. Remember to chain three for each turn.

Crochet 13 double crochet over the next 13 stitches. In the last stitch make two double crochets. Turn and go in the opposite direction. Double crochet in each stitch across then turn. Double crochet in the first 14 stitches, then two double crochet in the last stitch. Make 10 chain stitches then turn. Double crochet in each of the 12 stitches.

Crochet 16 double crochet, then turn. Skip the first double crochet in this row then crochet 15 double crochet and turn. Crochet 15 double crochet, then turn. For the next four rows make one double crochet in each stitch across.

Crochet two double crochet in first stitch, then make 13 double crochet across. Turn the other way. Make 14 double crochet stitches then make two double crochets in the last stitch. Cast the stitches off and weave the loose ends into the finished bonnet.

Sew the last row of 16 double crochets to to last row on the other side of the headband. Sew the middle 13 rows toward the middle of the headband to make two ear holes. Crochet two rounds of single crochet around the entire bonnet to create an edge.