Half Double Crochet Ear Warmer
Ready for a second stitch? This ear warmer is made from straight rows of half double crochet, which is a little taller than single crochet and grows faster. You will also sew your first simple seam and make the cinched front that gives this style its polished look.
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Finished size
- About 3.75 in (9.5 cm) wide × 19 in (48 cm) around, for an adult head of 21–22 in (53–56 cm)
- Yarn weight
- Medium / Worsted
- Hook
- 5.5 mm (US I-9)
- Time
- About 2 hours
- Terminology
- US terms
Gauge: 13 hdc and 10 rows = 4 in (10 cm). Gauge isn’t critical because you measure the length as you go, but it changes the width of the band.
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About this pattern
You crochet a long, narrow strip 12 stitches wide, measuring it against the head as you go, then join the short ends. Wrapping the yarn tightly around the seam gathers it into a neat twist-style detail and hides the join.
The strip is sized by measuring rather than by counting rows, so it is easy to make for an adult, a teenager or a child. Choose a soft, warm yarn you would be happy to wear against your forehead.
Why you'll love it
- Introduces half double crochet on a quick, practical project
- Sized to fit as you go — no guesswork
- The cinched front looks polished but is very easy
- A thoughtful winter gift from less than one ball of yarn
Materials
Worsted-weight (medium
Estimated. A soft yarn with a little stretch is most comfortable.
About 80–100 yd (73–91 m)
5.5 mm (US I-9) crochet hook
Tapestry needle, scissors and a tape measure
Abbreviations
- ch
- chain
- hdc
- half double crochetUK: htr
- st(s)
- stitch(es)
- rep
- repeat
This pattern uses US terms. Convert US ↔ UK terms
Stitches used
Notes before you start
- The chain 2 at the start of each row does not count as a stitch.
- Measure around the head across the forehead and just above the ears. The finished band should be about 2 in (5 cm) smaller than this measurement, so it stays in place.
- Leave a long tail when you fasten off. You will use it to sew the seam and cinch the front.
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The pattern
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Tick rows and rounds as you finish them — your progress is saved on this device.
Foundation chain
Band
Tip: Before you fasten off, wrap the band around the head. It should feel snug but comfortable, with the short ends just meeting.
Assembly
Finishing
Tip: Wear the cinched seam at the center front, or turn it to one side for a different look.
Tips
- Half double crochet edges are easy to lose track of. Mark the first and last stitch of each row.
- If the band feels stiff, try a hook half a size larger; if it is floppy, go down half a size.
- Measure with the band lying flat. Stretching it while you measure makes you stop too early, and the band ends up too tight.
Variations
- Child size
- For a child’s head of 18–20 in (46–51 cm), ch 12 for a band 10 stitches wide, and stop when it measures 16–18 in (41–46 cm).
- Wider band
- Ch 18 for a band 16 stitches (about 5 in / 12.5 cm) wide that covers more of the ears. You will need about a third more yarn.
- Chunky version
- Use bulky yarn and a 6.5 mm (US K-10½) hook, start with ch 11 for a band 9 stitches wide, and measure the length in the same way.
Common questions
How long should I make the band?
Measure around the head across the forehead and above the ears, then subtract about 2 in (5 cm). Crochet the band to that length, measuring it while it lies flat.
What’s the difference between half double crochet and single crochet?
Half double crochet starts with an extra yarn over, which makes it taller. Your project grows faster, and the fabric is slightly softer and more flexible than single crochet.
My seam shows. How can I hide it?
The cinched wraps cover most of it. Make sure you sew through the tops of the stitches on both ends, and pull the wraps tight so they gather the band completely.
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