My concept with the Super Simple Ribbed Headband was to create a stretchy headband that was sure to fit a range of head sizes -- hence my choice to use ribbing. And, to make the ribbing stretch lengthwise rather than widthwise, the easiest construction method was to knit the headband in the round (like a hat) rather than knitting it flat and seaming it at the end. You can find more information on the design inspiration here, and recommendations for yarns and colors to use for your Super Simple Ribbed Headband here!
Note: A downloadable, printable PDF version of this pattern is available for $1.50 - $2.00 (USD) on Ravelry, Payhip, or LoveCrafts. The PDF version also includes definitions for each of the abbreviations, and the pattern is laid out more in a list form than a paragraph form. (Or, get the download sent to your email for free here!)
Super Simple Ribbed Headband - Free Pattern
Note: This blog will not be updated with revisions in the pattern; you will only receive the most recent version of the pattern via one of the downloadable PDF files.
This pattern is a beginner level pattern, and it is available in baby, toddler, child (tween, woman, man) sizing. I also include a single thick version and a double thick version.
To knit this pattern you will need: bulky weight yarn, circular or DPN knitting needles, a darning needle, and a stitch marker. For the double thick version, you will also need waste yarn.
Note: If you are interested in some color and/or yarn recommendations for your Super Simple Ribbed Headband, be sure to read my Super Simple Ribbed Heabdand: Yarn Recommendations blog post!
This pattern is worked in the round. If using circular needles, you will want needles aat least the length of your headband circumference. To obtain a gauge of 13 stitches and 16 rounds per 4" (10 cm) in K2, P1 pattern, I used US size 9 (5.5 mm) needles. For the double thick version, you will also need a set of needles two sizes smaller than what you used to get gauge (so, I used US size 7/4.5 mm). The amount of yarn that you need to knit this pattern is dependent on the size that you choose to knit -- 15, 18, 24 (27, 34, 40) yds / 14, 16, 22 (25, 31, 37) grams Bulky Weight Yarn for the single thick version and 38, 45, 59 (67, 79, 93) yds / 35, 41, 54 (61, 72, 85) grams Bulky Weight Yarn for the double thick version.
If you wish to modify the size of your dishcloth, you can easily do so.
Instructions - Single Thick Version:
To start, you will cast on 36, 42, 48 (54, 57, 60) stitches using a long-tail cast on method.
Place your stitch marker to indicate the beginning of the round. Join in the round, being careful to not twist the stitches.
You will now work your ribbing for the headband. This round is created by working (K2, P1) to the end of the round. Now, repeat that round for a total of 10, 10, 12 (12, 14, 16) rounds/ 2.5, 2.5, 3 (3, 3.5, 4) inches. Bind off purlwise. Weave in ends, and block if desired. Enjoy!
Instructions - Double Thick Version:
To start, you will cast on 36, 42, 48 (54, 57, 60) stitches using a provisional cast on and the needle size you used to obtain gauge.
Place your stitch marker to indicate the beginning of the round. Join in the round, being careful to not twist the stitches.
You will now work your ribbing for the headband. This round is created by working (K2, P1) to the end of the round. Now, repeat that round for a total of 12, 12, 14 (14, 16, 18) rounds.
Switch to your smaller needle size. You will now continue to work your ribbing pattern for an additional 14, 14, 16 (16, 18, 20) rounds. The total number of rounds worked should now be 26, 26, 30 (30, 34, 38) rounds / 6, 6, 7 (7, 8, 9) inches. Fold in half such that the right side faces out and bind off using the kitchener stitch and your provisional cast on. Weave in ends, and block if desired. Enjoy!
I hope you enjoyed this free pattern and use this pattern to fill your winter accessory box with lots of love! If you are interested in downloading and printing a PDF version of this pattern, you can find the pattern available for $1.50 - $2.00 (USD) on Ravelry, Payhip, or LoveCrafts. (Or, get the download sent to your email for free here!)
Happy Knitting!