Braided Cable Ear Warmer
How to Knit a Braided Cable Ear Warmer (Knit Flat with Worsted Weight Yarn)
If you've been wanting to try cables but feel intimidated by charts or complex stitches, this braided cable ear warmer is the perfect beginner project! Worked flat and seamed at the end, this cozy knit headband uses worsted weight yarn and introduces you to reading cable charts for flat knitting—in a way that’s easy to follow and rewarding to knit.
Why You’ll Love This Cable Ear Warmer Pattern
Beginner-friendly cables: A great intro to knitting cables and reading charts
Knit flat: No need to knit in the round or use circular needles
Quick knit: Great for gifts, markets, or stash-busting
Stylish & functional: Warm, textured, and beautiful
Gauge
• Cable Pattern on US 8: Cable Chart Repeat (21 stitches x 8 rows) = 3” wide x 1.25” high
Size
• Fits Circumference up to 22” (56 cm)
• Unstretched Circumference: 18” (46 cm)
• Width: 3” (7.6 cm)
Note: to customize the circumference you can add or remove repeats of the cable chart!
Materials
• Cable Needle Amazon
• Lykke US 8 Amazon
• Tapestry Needle Amazon
• Tape Measure Amazon
• 70 yds (64 meters) Worsted Weight Yarn (Worsted/Medium/#4 Weight Yarn)
Shown in Crow and Crescent Rhea Worsted in the Meridian colorway. I purchased this yarn from their etsy shop.
Disclaimer: Some links provided are affiliate links and I receive a small commission when used. These commissions help to support the free content I offer!
Skills You’ll Learn
Casting on and knitting flat
Creating right and left cable crosses
Reading a cable chart (for flat knitting)
Seaming your work neatly
Watch the Step-by-Step Video
If you're a visual learner, be sure to check out the YouTube tutorial here. I’ll walk you through every step—from casting on to cabling to seaming your ear warmer. You’ll also learn how to read a basic cable chart and understand the symbols used when working flat.
Cast On
Use the backward loop cast on method to cast on 21 stitches.
Cable Chart
Work Rows 1 & 2 of the cable chart one time.
Repeat Rows 3 through 10 of the cable chart until your work measures 18” (46 cm). Stop after either a Row 6 or a Row 10.
Note: to customize the circumference you can add or remove repeats of the cable chart!
Cast Off
Cast off all stitches. Seam flat or create a twist! The method to create a twist is shown in the YouTube Tutorial!
Customize Your Ear Warmer
Want a chunkier look? Try using bulky yarn and larger needles. Prefer a tighter fit? Reduce the number of cable repeats. You can also make a matching set with mittens or a scarf in the same cable motif!
Final Thoughts
Cable knitting doesn't have to be intimidating. With just a bit of practice and a clear guide, you'll be knitting stunning textures in no time. This braided cable ear warmer is a great place to start—or the perfect weekend project for seasoned knitters who love a quick, satisfying make.
Thanks for stopping by, and happy knitting! 🧶
- Madeline