Whispering Pines Twisted Turban Headband Free Pattern – Knitted Cozy Winter Wrap
Whispering Pines Twisted Turban Headband: A Cozy Knitting Pattern
Wrap yourself in the serene beauty of a winter forest with this uniquely twisted turban headband. Featuring a rich cable texture and soft, chunky yarn, this pattern creates a luxurious, snug fit that elevates any cold-weather outfit. The dramatic center twist adds a sculptural, elegant touch, while the ribbed edges ensure a comfortable, secure fit. Whether you're a seasoned knitter or looking for a rewarding weekend project, this headband is the perfect way to add handmade warmth to your wardrobe.
Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the following supplies to ensure a smooth knitting experience:
- Yarn: Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick (super bulky weight, 106 yards per skein) – 1 skein in 'Forest Green' (or any super bulky yarn of your choice)
- Needles: US 11 (8.0 mm) straight knitting needles
- Cable Needle: For creating the twisted cable patterns
- Yarn Needle: For seaming and weaving in ends
- Scissors
Gauge: 12 stitches and 16 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch (after blocking).
Note: Achieving the correct gauge is important for the perfect fit, but this pattern is forgiving due to the stretchy nature of the cables and ribbing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Finished Size & Abbreviations
Finished Size: Fits average adult head (21-23 inches circumference).
Abbreviations:
- CO: Cast on
- K: Knit
- P: Purl
- C4B: Slip 2 stitches to cable needle, hold to back, knit 2, knit 2 from cable needle
- C4F: Slip 2 stitches to cable needle, hold to front, knit 2, knit 2 from cable needle
- K2tog: Knit 2 stitches together
- SSK: Slip, slip, knit (slip 2 stitches knitwise one at a time, then knit them together through the back loop)
- BO: Bind off
Step 1: Cast On
CO 20 stitches loosely. A loose cast-on is essential for a stretchy edge that will comfortably fit over your head. If you tend to cast on tightly, consider using a larger needle or the long-tail method with extra slack.
Step 2: Ribbing Edge
This ribbed border will hug your forehead and keep the headband securely in place.
- Row 1: *K1, P1* repeat from * to * across.
- Row 2: *P1, K1* repeat from * to * across.
Repeat Rows 1-2 until the piece measures 2 inches from the cast-on edge. End with a Row 2 (wrong side row). This creates a neat, reversible ribbing that transitions smoothly into the cable section.
Step 3: Cable Pattern Section
Now we begin the beautiful cable work that gives this headband its rich texture. The pattern uses two cables that cross in opposite directions, creating a balanced, braided look.
- Row 1 (RS): K4, C4B, K4, C4F, K4
- Row 2 (WS): P4, K4, P4, K4, P4
- Row 3: K4, K4, K4, K4, K4 (all knit)
- Row 4: P4, K4, P4, K4, P4
- Row 5: K4, C4F, K4, C4B, K4
- Row 6: P4, K4, P4, K4, P4
- Row 7: K4, K4, K4, K4, K4 (all knit)
- Row 8: P4, K4, P4, K4, P4
Repeat Rows 1-8 until the piece measures 18 inches from the cast-on edge, ending with a Row 8 (wrong side row). This will create a long, textured band that wraps around your head.
Step 4: Twisted Turban Shaping
Now we create the dramatic twisted center. This section decreases the stitches to gather the fabric into a sculptural knot.
- Row 1 (RS): K2, K2tog, K4, K2tog, K2, K2tog, K4, K2tog, K2 (16 stitches)
- Row 2 (WS): Purl all stitches
- Row 3: K2, K2tog, K2, K2tog, K2, K2tog, K2, K2tog, K2 (12 stitches)
- Row 4: Purl all stitches
- Row 5: K1, K2tog, K1, K2tog, K1, K2tog, K1, K2tog, K1 (8 stitches)
- Row 6: Purl all stitches
Notice how the decreases are evenly distributed to create a gentle taper. This shaping is what allows the fabric to gather beautifully at the center.
Step 5: Twisted Center
Cut the yarn, leaving a generous 12-inch tail. Thread the tail through a yarn needle and slip the remaining 8 stitches onto the needle. Pull tight to gather the stitches together, creating the center of the turban twist. Secure with a firm knot. This gathered point will become the focal point of your headband.
Step 6: Seaming
With the right side facing, fold the headband so the two short edges meet at the back. Use the mattress stitch to seam the edges together, leaving a small opening of about 2 inches. Carefully turn the headband right side out through this opening, then close the opening with a few invisible stitches using the yarn needle. The mattress stitch creates a seamless, professional finish that's invisible from the outside.
Step 7: Finishing
Weave in all loose ends with your yarn needle, being careful to hide them within the fabric. Block the headband gently to even out the cables and enhance the twist. To block, dampen the headband slightly and lay it flat to dry, gently shaping it to your desired form. Let it dry completely before wearing. This final step ensures your cables look crisp and the twist sits perfectly.
Your Whispering Pines Twisted Turban Headband is now complete! The rich forest green color and intricate cable work make this a standout accessory that's both cozy and elegant. Wear it on chilly walks, cozy coffee dates, or anywhere you want to add a touch of handmade luxury to your winter wardrobe.
