31 Knitted Headbands To Make (Free + Simple)

In this blog post, you will see 31 knitted headbands to make, with plenty of headband knitting patterns you can make for yourself or for gift-giving!

Headbands are not only one of the most useful hair accessories that will keep your hair out of your face during activities, but if it’s wide enough, they can provide a little warmth to your ears during outdoor exercise like running or bike rides! 

A knitted headband can also be an easy project for a beginner who is looking for quick knits to make. 

You can easily create one with leftover yarn from your stash in a flash! 

Headband Styles To Try Out!

Knitted headbands come in a variety of styles to suit various preferences and occasions.

The twist-style headbands are a trendy choice, featuring a twisted or braided design that adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. 

A twist-style headband is versatile and suitable for both casual and formal settings, making them a chic fashion statement. 

Knot-style headbands are another chic option, characterized by a knot or bow at the front.

Knot-style headbands come in various widths and can be worn with hair up or down, making them versatile and adaptable to different hairstyles.

Perfect to show off on your socials

Additionally, cable-knit headbands feature intricate cable stitch patterns, perfect for adding texture and warmth to cold-weather ensembles. 

Classic headbands and traditional skinny bands offer timeless elegance with simple stitch patterns and solid colors, making them versatile staples for everyday wear. 

Open lacework headbands bring a delicate and airy charm to outfits, ideal for spring and summer looks.

Lastly, a chunky wide headband can provide extra warmth and coziness with its thick, textured designs, making them must-have accessories for winter adventures.

How To Knit A Headband? – Everything You Need To Know About Knitting Headbands!

What is the best yarn weight for a headband? 

The best yarn weight for a headband largely depends on the style, comfort, and intended use of the headband. 

There are various yarn weights to choose from, ranging from laceweight to super bulky, each offering unique qualities.

For a lightweight, breathable headband that’s ideal for warmer seasons or indoor wear, laceweight or fingering weight yarns are suitable choices.

They create delicate and airy headbands that won’t feel too heavy on the head.

Worsted weight yarn, which is a medium-weight yarn, is a popular choice for headbands. 

It strikes a balance between warmth and comfort and works well for headbands intended for everyday use in a range of temperatures.

Bulky or super bulky weight yarns are excellent options if you want to create a thick and warm headband that is perfect for colder weather or outdoor activities. 

These yarns offer excellent insulation and can provide extra warmth for the ears and forehead.

Learn everything about yarn weights here – Yarn Weights – Handy Little Me

What type of yarn is best for headbands?    

The choice of yarn for headbands depends on several factors, including the desired characteristics of the headband, the season it will be worn in, and personal preferences.

For headbands intended for warmer seasons or indoor wear, breathable and lightweight yarns like cotton or bamboo can be ideal.

On the other hand, if you’re crafting headbands for colder seasons or outdoor activities, you may prefer warmer and insulating yarns like wool or alpaca.

When choosing yarn for headbands, consider not only the comfort but also the desired aesthetics.

Variegated or textured yarns can add visual interest to your headbands, while solid colors provide a classic look.

Additionally, blends of different materials can offer a combination of qualities, allowing you to strike a balance between warmth, breathability, and style.

Learn everything you need to know about the different yarn fibers here. – Yarn Types Explained: A Guide To Different Fibers 

What Is The Best Stitch For A Headband?

Easy Stitches For Beginners

The best stitch for headbands often depends on the style and functionality you desire.

For a classic and versatile headband, the garter stitch or the stockinette stitch are popular choices, providing a smooth, flat fabric on one side and subtle texture on the reverse side.

If you’re looking for added warmth and thickness, the ribbing stitch, such as 1×1 or 2×2 ribbing, offers elasticity and a snug fit.

Learn how to knit the rib stitch here. – How To Knit Rib Stitch Patterns (1×1 and 2×2 ribbing)

Learn how to knit the garter stitch here. – How To Knit Garter Stitch.

Learn how to knit the stocking stitch here. – How To Knit Stockinette Stitch (For Beginners).

Check out 12 beginner knitting stitches here – 12 Simple Knitting Stitches For Beginners.

Twisty Cables And Lace Stitches

If you’re looking to create headbands with intricate and eye-catching designs, consider incorporating cable or lace stitches.

Cables involve crossing stitches to form twisting patterns, adding a touch of elegance and texture.

Lace stitches create delicate, open lace patterns that lend a more decorative and airy feel to the headband.

These stitches are perfect for occasions when you want your headband to make a statement.

Check out 8 cable stitches to try out here – 8 Cable Stitch Knitting Patterns

What is the best cast-on for a headband?

The best cast-on method for a headband often depends on your specific design and the desired characteristics of the headband.

The long-tail cast-on is a versatile choice, providing a neat edge with a bit of elasticity, suitable for most headbands. 

If you’re looking for a more decorative and finished edge, the I-cord cast-on can add an elegant touch.

For headbands that need to stretch comfortably, especially if they have a wide design, the tubular cast-on is an excellent option due to its high elasticity.

Learn everything about the different cast-on methods here – Knitting Cast-On Methods 

How many stitches should I cast on for a headband?    

The number of stitches you should cast on for a headband can vary depending on several factors, including the yarn you’re using, your knitting gauge, and the size you want for the headband. 

As a general starting point, you can cast on about 16 to 20 stitches for a standard adult-sized headband made with worsted weight yarn and (US 8 or 9) 5.0-5.5 mm needles. 

For a child’s headband, you may cast on fewer stitches, and for a wider headband or a headband with a specific stitch pattern, you may need more stitches. 

Always measure your work as you go to ensure it fits comfortably around the head.

How much yarn is needed to knit a headband?  

The amount of yarn needed to knit a headband can vary depending on factors like the size, stitch pattern, yarn weight, and gauge. 

However, on average, you can estimate that a simple, standard-sized headband (approximately 2 to 4 inches wide and 18 to 20 inches in circumference) will require approximately 50 to 100 yards (45 to 90 meters) of yarn.

This estimate assumes you are using a worsted weight yarn (medium weight yarn) and achieving a standard gauge of around 4-5 stitches per inch (2.5 cm) in the chosen stitch pattern. 

If you plan to make a wider headband or use a thicker yarn, you may need more yarn. 

Conversely, if you’re making a narrower headband or using a finer yarn, you may need less yarn.

For a more accurate estimate, it’s always a good practice to swatch with your chosen yarn and stitch pattern to determine your specific gauge and then calculate the yardage based on the measurements of your headband. 

Additionally, knitting patterns may specify the exact yardage required for the project, so if you’re following a pattern, be sure to check for that information.

How many rows do you need to knit a headband?    

The number of rows you need to knit a headband depends on several factors, including the desired width, the stitch pattern or technique you’re using, and your knitting gauge. 

The width of the headband you want will greatly influence the number of rows. A

basic, narrow headband might only require 10-20 rows, while a wider headband or one with a textured pattern could require 30 or more rows.

Keep in mind that it’s always a good practice to periodically check the width of your headband as you knit to ensure it aligns with your intended dimensions.

Adjust the number of rows as needed to reach the desired size.

What length should a knitted headband be?    

The length of a knitted headband depends on whether you want it to be a simple, snug-fitting band or if you prefer a wider, more versatile headband. 

Here are some guidelines for determining the length of a knitted headband:

1. Standard Adult Headband: If you want a basic, snug-fitting headband, a typical length is approximately 18 to 20 inches (46 to 51 cm) before stretching. This allows for some stretch to comfortably fit around the head. However, it’s important to note that head circumference can vary, so measuring the head of the intended wearer is a good practice.
2. Wider Headband: If you prefer a wider headband that covers more of the forehead and ears, you can aim for a length of around 22 to 24 inches (56 to 61 cm) before stretching. This will provide extra width for folding or gathering the headband for a stylish look.
3. Child’s Headband: For a child’s headband, you can adjust the length accordingly. A typical length for a child’s headband could be around 16 to 18 inches (41 to 46 cm) before stretching.
4. Elastic or Stretchy Yarn: If you’re using an elastic or highly stretchy yarn, you can make the headband slightly shorter because the yarn will naturally provide more stretch.
5. Custom Fit: To ensure a perfect fit, you can measure the head circumference of the person who will be wearing the headband and subtract about 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) to account for the stretch in the knitting and to achieve a snug, secure fit.

How do you connect two ends of a knitted headband?   

To connect two ends of a knitted headband, there are several methods to choose from.

One common method is to use a yarn needle and whipstitch the ends together, creating a visible seam. 

Align the two ends with the right sides facing each other, thread a yarn needle with matching yarn, and sew through each pair of stitches along the edge until you’ve joined them completely. 

Alternatively, you can use the Kitchener stitch, also known as grafting, for a nearly invisible seam that seamlessly blends the two ends together. 

This method involves threading the yarn needle and alternately working through stitches on both ends to create a seamless finish. 

Another option is the three-needle bind-off, which creates a sturdy seam with a visible ridge on one side, adding a decorative element. 

Whichever method you choose, secure the yarn ends and weave them in for a tidy finish.

How do I know my headband size?    

To determine your headband size or the size of a headband for someone else, you’ll need to measure the circumference of the head accurately.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to finding the right headband size:

1. Gather Materials:
   • A flexible measuring tape (preferred) or a piece of string and a ruler.
2. Prepare the Hair:
   • If the headband is intended to be worn over hair, make sure the hair is styled as it would be when the headband is worn.
3. Measure the Circumference:
   • Start by positioning the measuring tape or string around the head. Place it across the forehead, just above the eyebrows and ears.
   • Ensure the tape or string is snug but not tight. It should sit comfortably around the head.
   • Make sure the tape or string is level all the way around and meets at the starting point.
4. Record the Measurement:
   • If you’re using a measuring tape, read the measurement in inches or centimeters.
   • If you used a piece of string, mark the point where it meets the starting point, then measure the length of the string with a ruler.
5. Determine the Headband Size:
   • Most headband sizes are given as circumference measurements. You can use the recorded measurement directly as the headband size.

For example, if the measurement is 21 inches (53 cm), then the headband size should be around 21 inches in circumference. 

However, you can also add a little extra length for comfort and ease, especially if the headband is made of non-stretchy materials.

1. Consider Stretch:
   • Keep in mind that many headbands have some stretch to them, especially those made from elastic materials. You may want to choose a headband size slightly smaller than the head measurement if the headband is stretchy.
2. Check Specific Sizing: If you’re buying a headband from a store or using a pattern, check if it provides specific sizing information. Some patterns or products might have size recommendations to ensure a good fit.

Remember that head sizes can vary, so it’s always a good idea to measure the specific head you’re making the headband for, if possible.

If the headband is a gift or you can’t measure the recipient’s head, a general measurement based on typical head sizes should work well for most headbands.

Knitting Lessons

If you are a new maker and need help with the knitting basics, check out the knitting lessons here – Knitting Lessons (With Video Tutorials)

There, you will find tutorial posts for all the knitting techniques a newbie needs to know. 

And if you need more video tutorials, check out my YouTube channel here. – Handy Little Me – YouTube