Shared knit pattern

Wide Ribbed Headband

A wide, doubled-over ear-warmer headband worked flat in fisherman's rib, then seamed into a loop for a cozy, stretchy fit. The doubled fabric provides extra warmth over the ears.

Abbreviations

Finishing

1. Fold the piece in half lengthwise (WS together) so the cast-on edge meets the bind-off edge, forming a doubled band approx. 2 in wide × 18 in long. 2. Thread the 18-in tail onto a tapestry needle. Using mattress stitch, seam the short ends together to form a loop, matching row for row. 3. Weave in all remaining ends securely. 4. Lightly steam-block or wet-block the seam if desired to even out the join, keeping the ribbing relaxed so it retains its stretch.

Notes

Gauge note: Fisherman's rib is significantly wider relaxed than stretched — always measure gauge in the relaxed, unstreched state to ensure correct finished circumference. Sizing: For a larger head (up to 22 in circumference), work 4 additional rows (total 69 rows); for a smaller head (down to 20 in), omit 4 rows (total 61 rows). The fabric will stretch comfortably 2–3 in beyond its relaxed measurement. Technique tip: When working k1b, be sure to insert the needle into the stitch on the row below — not the current row — and let the stitch above drop off naturally; this creates the signature puffy rib columns. Seaming tip: Mattress stitch on ribbing works best when you pick up the bars between the first and second stitch on each edge, producing a nearly invisible join. Yarn note: Fisherman's rib consumes significantly more yarn than standard ribbing — do not substitute a lower yardage without swatching first. A wool or wool-blend yarn with good elasticity will maintain the ribbed structure over time; 100% acrylic may relax and lose shape.