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How To Knit A Headband For Absolute Beginners!

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This blog post will teach you how to knit a headband for absolute beginners!

The easy headband has a step-by-step tutorial so you can follow along and learn this fantastic stitch pattern if you are a new knitter.

This simple knit and purl stitch pattern has a textured look.

Please scroll down to view the free knit pattern with detailed instructions, or grab the printable PDF in my shop here.

How to knit a twist headband for beginners

How To Knit A Headband (Free Headband Knitting Pattern)

Skill Level – Basic (Beginner Knitters)

Here is a knitted headband pattern for you to try out!

This simple headband is knit with a textured knit and purl stitch pattern that will look great on a headband with a stylish twist.

This knit headband is a great pattern and an easy project for a beginner as it uses simple stitches; plus, there is a detailed tutorial with both photographs and a video tutorial to help you along.

This wide headband is perfect for you to wear on cold weather days or for gift-giving.

Headbands are so much fun to make and are a great project to take with you on the train or in a car.

Grab your ad-free printable PDF pattern in my shop here with all the necessary photographs.

New knitters, you may be interested in this resource – How to Knit – A Complete Beginner’s Guide

Copyright Info

  • Please do not copy, sell, redistribute, or republish this free pattern and written instructions. 
  • If you wish to share this pattern, please provide a link to the pattern page only.
  • You may sell the finished item produced using this pattern.
  • You must give pattern credit to Louise Bollanos/Handy Little Me as the designer.
  • Do NOT use copyrighted photos for your product listing.
  • For the copyright T&C, please read my Terms of Use.
Knitted headband

Measurements/Sizes

  • Adult Small/Medium = Length – 20 inches (Fit women’s medium).
  • Width = 5 inches.
  • To fit a head with a circumference size of around 22-24 inches.
  • You can adjust the length easily by working fewer or more rows depending on your head circumference size.
  • Try this in worsted-weight yarn and size 5 mm needles for a smaller-width headband.

Gauge – 14 sts and 16 rows = 4in/10cm in pattern.

The supplies you need…

Yarn

  • Yarn weight: Bulky Yarn 05/Chunky/12-Ply
  • I used one ball of West Yorkshire Spinners Chunk Roving RE: TREAT in Quiet 1015.
  • One ball is 100g/153 yards/140m.
  • Around half will be enough to make one headband (50g/76.5yds/70m).
  • This is a great way to use leftover yarn.

Needle Size

Notions

twist headband knitted

Abbreviations

  • Beg – Begin(ning)
  • Cont – Continue(ing)
  • K – Knit
  • P – Purl
  • PM – Place marker
  • Rem – Remaining
  • Rep – Repeat
  • RS – Right side
  • SM – Slip marker
  • St(s) – Stitch(es)
  • WS – Wrong side

Time needed: 1 day, 2 hours and 30 minutes

How To Knit A Headband For Absolute Beginners

  1. Step 1 – Cast On

    Grab your bulky yarn and size (US 10) 6 mm needles and cast on 22 stitches (I used the long-tail cast-on method).How to knit a headband step 1

  2. Step 2 – Knit 2 rows (The setup rows)

    Next, knit two rows to make a small border edge.How to knit a headband step 2

  3. Step 3 – Row 1

    Row 1 – Knit two stitches, place a marker, then begin a repeat of *knit one stitch, purl one stitch – repeating from this symbol * until you reach the last two stitches, place another marker, and then knit the final two stitches. Turn the work.
    Abbreviated version – Row 1 (RS): K2, PM, *K1, P1 – Rep from * to the last 2 sts, PM, K2.How to knit a headband step 3

  4. Step 4 – Row 2

    Row 2 – Knit two stitches, slip the marker, then begin a repeat of *knit three stitches, purl one stitch – repeating from this symbol * until you reach the last four stitches, knit two stitches, slip the marker, and then knit the final two stitches. Turn the work.
    Abbreviated version – Row 2 (WS): K2, SM, *K3, P1 – Rep from * to the last 4 sts, K2, SM, K2.How to knit a headband step 4

  5. Step 5 – Row 3

    Row 3: Knit two stitches, slip the marker, purl two stitches, then begin a repeat of *knit one stitch, purl three stitches – repeating from this symbol * until you reach the last two stitches, slip the marker, and then knit the final two stitches. Turn the work.
    Abbreviated version – Row 3: K2, SM, P2, *K1, P3 – Rep from * to the last 2 sts, SM, K2.How to knit a headband step 5

  6. Step 6 – Row 4

    Row 4: Knit two stitches, slip the marker, then begin a repeat of *knit one stitch, purl one stitch – repeating from this symbol * until you reach the last two stitches, slip the marker, and then knit the final two stitches. Turn the work.
    Abbreviated version – Row 4: K2, SM, *K1, P1 – Rep from * to the last 2 sts, SM, K2.How to knit a headband step 6

  7. Step 7 – Row 5

    Row 5: Knit two stitches, slip the marker, then begin a repeat of *knit one stitch, purl three stitches – repeating from this symbol * until you reach the last four stitches, knit one stitch, purl one stitch, slip the marker, and then knit the final two stitches. Turn the work.
    Abbreviated version – Row 5: K2, SM, *K1, P3 – Rep from * to the last 4 sts, K1, P1, SM, K2.How to knit a headband step 7

  8. Step 8 – Row 6

    Row 6: Knit two stitches, slip the marker, knit one stitch, purl one stitch, then begin a repeat of *knit three stitches, purl one stitch – repeating from this symbol * until you reach the last two stitches, slip the marker, and then knit the final two stitches. Turn the work.
    Abbreviated version – Row 6: K2, SM, K1, P1, *K3, P1 – Rep from * to the last 2 sts, SM, K2.How to knit a headband step 8

  9. Step 9 – Repeat the pattern

    Rep rows 1-6 until the piece measures 19 inches.
    *You can add more or less length depending on how long you want the headband to be (you need to measure your head to check and read the size info).How to knit a headband step 9

  10. Step 10 – Knit two rows

    Knit two rows for the final border edge.How to knit a headband step 11

  11. Step 11 – Cast off

    Cast off in pattern.
    Weave in any loose ends.
    Leave one long yarn tail for seaming.How to knit a headband step 12

  12. Step 12 – Making up

    Lie the headband out flat with the right side facing up.
    Fold the ends into the middle.How to knit a headband step 13

  13. Step 13 – Making up

    Then offset them so that half of one side is touching the other half at an angle – like in the second photo below.How to knit a headband step 14

  14. Step 14 – Seaming the twist

    Hold the ends together.How to knit a headband step 15

  15. Step 15 – Seaming the twist

    Fold the top section over onto the right side of the fold.How to knit a headband step 16

  16. Step 16 – Seaming the twist

    Fold the bottom section over and hold it into place.How to knit a headband step 17

  17. Step 17 – Seaming the twist

    Then push your needle through, catching all four sections, seaming until the end, and securing with a knot.How to knit a headband step 18

  18. Step 18 – Turn the right side out

    Turn the right side out and lay flat.
    Your simple knit headband and newest cute accessory is now ready to wear.
    You can now make beautiful headbands and give them away to friends and family. This would make a great gift.
    knitted headband

View The How To Knit A Headband Tutorial Video On My YouTube Channel

What Is The Best Stitch For Headbands?

The best stitch for headbands depends on the style you’re going for, the yarn you’re using, and your skill level.

Here are a few popular knit stitches that work well for twist headband knitting patterns:

  1. Garter Stitch:
    • It is simple and involves knitting every row.
    • Creates a textured fabric with a stretchy width.
  2. Ribbing (1×1 or 2×2):
    • Alternating knit and purl stitches.
    • Provides a stretchy and textured fabric, ideal for a snug fit.
  3. Seed Stitch:
    • Alternating knit and purl stitches within the same row.
    • Creates a bumpy texture that adds interest.
  4. Basketweave Stitch:
    • Involves blocks of knit and purl stitches to mimic a woven pattern.
    • Adds a visually appealing texture.
  5. Cable Stitch:
    • Involves crossing stitches to create a twisted, cable-like pattern.
    • Adds a decorative and intricate look.
  6. Twisted Ribbing:
    • A variation of traditional ribbing with twisted knit stitches.
    • Gives a slightly different texture and appearance.
  7. Herringbone Stitch:
    • Creates a distinctive V-shaped pattern.
    • Offers a unique and visually appealing texture.
  8. Fisherman’s Rib:
    • It involves a combination of knit and purl stitches to create a plush and warm fabric.
    • Ideal for a cozy winter headband.

Consider the thickness of your yarn and the desired width and elasticity of your headband when choosing a knit stitch.

Also, keep in mind that certain stitches may be better suited for specific headband designs or seasons.

Feel free to experiment with different stitches to find the one that achieves the look and feel you desire.

Related Post: How To Knit A Hat For Complete Beginners (+ Video Tutorial)

knit headband for beginners

What Size Should A Knitted Headband Be?

The size of a knitted headband can vary based on individual preferences, head sizes, and the desired fit.

However, here are some general guidelines to help you determine the size of a knitted headband:

  1. Standard Adult Size:
    • For a standard adult headband, a circumference of approximately 20 to 22 inches (51 to 56 cm) is common. This allows for a comfortable fit on most adult head sizes.
  2. Child Size:
    • For a child’s headband, you can aim for a circumference of around 18 to 20 inches (46 to 51 cm). Adjustments may be needed based on the child’s age and head size.
  3. Baby Size:
    • Baby headbands typically have a circumference of about 14 to 16 inches (36 to 41 cm). Again, adjust the size based on the baby’s age and head circumference.
  4. Adjustable or Custom Fit:
    • If you want to make a headband that fits a range of head sizes, you can make it adjustable. For example, you can add buttons or a stretchy bind-off to allow for different levels of tightness.
  5. Measuring for Custom Fit:
    • To ensure a custom fit, measure the head circumference of the person who will be wearing the headband. Keep in mind that headbands are typically designed to have a bit of stretch for comfort.

Remember that the exact size may vary based on factors like yarn thickness, stitch pattern, and personal preference.

If you’re uncertain about the size, it’s always a good idea to check the fit as you go or to make the headband slightly stretchy to accommodate different head sizes comfortably.

Additionally, incorporating a bit of elasticity, such as using a ribbed or stretchy stitch pattern, can contribute to a better fit.

Blocking

You may wish to block your headband; you can do that as follows:

  • Gently block by filling a sink or water basin with lukewarm water, and add a small amount of rinseless wool wash (or soak wash).
  • Place the items in the water and gently massage out any air bubbles.
  • Drain water, gently squeezing out any excess water and moisture from the knitted item, then roll in a clean towel and stomp on the dry towel roll to remove any more excess water.
  • Lay the item out on a towel to approx. finished measurements and allowed to dry completely.
  • You could also use a blocking board and pin the headband into shape.

If you wish to learn more about blocking, you can do so here – Blocking Knits – How To Block Knitting Guide.

Twist headband flat

More Headband Patterns

You may also like these simple headbands and easy patterns…

Could you share your work with us?

If you enjoyed making the knitted headband, I’d love to see yours on social media,  Instagram; tag me @handylittleme or #handylittleme.

If you are on Facebook, stop over to the handylittleme Facebook group and share a photo.

I’d love to see your work.

You can also find me on Etsy, Ravelry, Pinterest, and YouTube.

Happy knitting!

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