If you’re new to crochet and looking for a project that’s quick, easy, and stylish, a crochet headband with braids is the perfect choice! It’s a fantastic way to practice basic stitches while making something cozy, cute, and totally wearable. The braided design looks impressive—but it’s simple enough for any beginner to master.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make your very own braided crochet headband step by step, using just basic stitches and a clever trick with strips. Ready to get started? Let’s go!
🌟 Why Make a Braided Crochet Headband?
- ✅ Beginner-friendly — only basic stitches required
- ✅ Quick to make — finish in an hour or two!
- ✅ No shaping or seaming needed
- ✅ Stylish and giftable
- ✅ Customizable in size and color
🧵 Materials You’ll Need
- Yarn: Worsted weight (Category 4) or bulky yarn
(Acrylic or cotton yarns work well for headbands) - Hook: 5.0 mm (H-8) or 6.0 mm (J-10), depending on yarn
- Scissors
- Yarn needle (for weaving in ends)
- Measuring tape
🧶 Crochet Stitches Used
- ch – chain
- sc – single crochet
- hdc – half double crochet
- (Optional: sl st – slip stitch for joining)
👑 How the Braided Headband Works
Instead of making one solid piece, you’ll crochet three long strips, then braid them together. You’ll secure the braid at both ends to create a stretchy, cozy headband.
✂️ Step-by-Step Pattern
🔸 Step 1: Crochet the Strips
Make 3 identical strips using the following pattern:
Row 1:
- Ch 61 (for adults – approx. 18–20 inches long; adjust for other sizes)
- Hdc in 2nd ch from hook and across (60 hdc)
- Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing
✅ Repeat 3 times to create 3 strips
🔗 Step 2: Braid the Strips
- Lay your three strips side by side.
- Using your yarn needle and tail, sew the tops of the 3 strips together securely.
- Begin braiding just like you would with hair:
- Left strip over middle
- Right strip over new middle
- Repeat until you reach the end
- Sew the ends together when finished braiding.
🔁 Step 3: Join the Headband Ends
Now that you have one braided piece:
- Bring both ends of the braid together to form a circle (make sure it’s not twisted).
- Use yarn and your needle to sew the ends together securely.
- For a cleaner finish, you can crochet a small “wrap” piece:
- Ch 10, hdc across for 2 rows
- Wrap around the seam, and sew it down to cover the join.
🎨 Customization Ideas
- Color Blocking: Use 3 different yarn colors for a rainbow braid!
- Textured Strips: Try using front loop only (FLO) or back loop only (BLO) hdc for ridges.
- Add Buttons or Appliqués for decoration.
- Use Velvet or Chenille Yarn for a cozy winter look.
📏 Size Chart (Approximate Head Circumference)
| Size | Strip Length (Before Braiding) |
|---|---|
| Baby | 14–15 inches |
| Toddler | 16–17 inches |
| Child | 17–18 inches |
| Teen/Adult | 19–21 inches |
💡 Headbands stretch, so it’s best to make them 1–2 inches shorter than actual head circumference for a snug fit.
🧼 Care Tips
- Use machine-washable yarn for easy care.
- Handwash delicate yarns and lay flat to dry.
- Stretch gently to reshape after washing.
🎁 Wrap-Up
A crochet braided headband is the ultimate beginner-friendly project: fast, fun, and fashionable. With just basic stitches and a clever twist (literally!), you can create a headband that looks much more advanced than it is. Whether you’re crafting for yourself, gifting to a friend, or stocking up for a handmade market, this is a go-to pattern you’ll return to again and again.
Video tutorial:
