This pattern has been updated with streamlined instructions in November 2024. Full written instructions, a cable chart, and tips for sizing are included.

To get notification about test knitting opportunities, special subscriber-only promotions and discounts, and a free pattern (Simple Hat Worked Flat), subscribe to the Softyarn Designs newsletter.

This beautiful braided cable makes for a fun knit and a great headband. Why is this headband so great? Here’s why!

• This headband can be made using any yarn. Yes, any yarn! If you use a lighter yarn, you will wind up with a thinner headband and if you use bulkier yarn, you will wind up with a thicker headband. But the pattern will get you to the right length regardless. Stash diving time!

• The “secret weapon” of a sewn-in ponytail holder keeps this headband comfortable all day and helps prevent the knitted fabric from stretching out of shape. It takes just a few stitches with a tapestry needle, but makes a big difference. It also means that if you are giving this as a gift, you don’t have to have the exact measurements of the recipient’s head in order to be confident that it will fit.

• If you use worsted, aran, or bulky yarn, the headband will be wide enough to cover part or all of the ears. Cozy!

• Knits up fast if you need a gift.

• And the pattern includes both a chart and row-by-row written instructions for the cables, for whichever way you prefer to work.

Yardage requirements and finished width will depend on the yarn chosen. As a guide, the green/blue headband in the example picture was knitted with worsted weight yarn (gauge 20 sts/ 4” on stockinette stitch), produced a headband about 3.75”/ 9.5 cm wide and used about 90-100 yards of yarn.

*Want to see more of this fun cable? The Saxony Hat has two panels of the Saxon Braided Cable and looks great on both men and women.