Free Pattern ยท Scarves & Headwear
This headband is designed for everyday styling: simple, warm enough for cool mornings, and polished enough to wear with a coat or linen jacket. It is worked as a flat ribbed rectangle, then seamed into a loop. The pattern is forgiving, but measuring before seaming is important because headbands need gentle negative ease to stay in place.
Materials
- DK or light worsted yarn, 80 to 110 yards
- 4.5 mm hook for DK, or 5 mm hook for light worsted
- Tapestry needle and stitch markers
Size and gauge
Measure around the head where the band will sit, then subtract 1 to 2 inches. A common adult size is 19 to 20 inches around and 3.5 inches wide. Gauge is about 14 half double crochet stitches in back loop only over 4 inches, but the actual head measurement matters more than exact gauge.
Abbreviations
ch = chain, hdc = half double crochet, BLO = back loop only, sl st = slip stitch.
Pattern
Ch 13 for a 3.5 inch wide band, or chain more for a wider winter version. Row 1: hdc in third ch from hook and each ch across, turn. Row 2: ch 2, hdc BLO in each st across, turn. Repeat Row 2 until the strip reaches your target length when slightly stretched. For most adult sizes, this will be 48 to 54 rows depending on yarn and tension.
Seaming
Bring the short ends together without twisting. For a simple seam, slip stitch through both ends. For a twist-front look, fold each short end in half, sandwich the folds together, and sew through all layers with a tapestry needle. Pull the seam snug but not puckered. Weave the tail through the seam twice for security.
Try the headband on before cutting the yarn. If it feels loose, remove two rows and seam again. If it feels tight, add two to four rows. Block lightly by pinning flat and misting with water. Avoid stretching it aggressively because ribbing grows with wear.
