Autumn Cable Knit Ear Warmer

When the weather turns crisp, there’s nothing better than a cozy knit to keep the chill off your ears. This Autumn Cable Knit Ear Warmer is quick to make, stylish enough for everyday wear, and simple enough for knitters who are just dipping their toes into cable work. The chunky yarn makes this a fast, weekend-friendly project, and the repeating cable pattern gives it that timeless handmade look. Knit flat and seamed at the end, it’s the perfect balance of comfort and style. Whip one up for yourself or make a few in different colors—these headbands make wonderful last-minute gifts.

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What you need

• 8mm (US 11) knitting needles
• Cable needle
• ~47 yards bulky weight yarn (Level 5) – sample shown in Two of Wands Hue + Me
• Tapestry needle for seaming

Gauge

4 sts x 4 rows = 1″ x 1″ in stockinette

Instructions

Finished Size

• Width: approx. 4.25″
• Circumference: 20–22″ (adult size)

Abbreviations

• k – knit
• p – purl
• sl st – slip stitch purlwise, yarn held to the back
• sts – stitches
• RKC – Right Knit Cable: slip 3 sts to cable needle, hold at back, knit 3, then knit 3 from cable needle
• LKC – Left Knit Cable: slip 3 sts to cable needle, hold at front, knit 3, then knit 3 from cable needle

Pattern

Cast on 18 sts.

Row 1: sl st, p2, k12, p2, k1
Row 2: sl st, k2, p12, k3
Row 3: sl st, p2, k12, p2, k1
Row 4: sl st, k2, p12, k3
Row 5: sl st, p2, 6-RKC, 6-LKC, p2, k1
Row 6–73: Repeat rows 2–5 (repeat this 4-row sequence 17 times, or until work measures about 18.5″ long)
Row 74: sl st, k2, p12, k3

Cast off. Leave a long tail for seaming.

Finishing

• Seam the short ends together with mattress stitch.
• Weave in ends neatly.

That’s it! You now have a handmade ear warmer that looks impressive but is simple enough to knit in a few evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Project

• Beginner-friendly cables – great practice without being overwhelming
• Fast knit – only 47 yards of yarn needed
• Perfect gift – make a stack in different colors for friends and family
• Practical – wide enough to cover ears, not so bulky that it gets in the way

This is one of those knits that you’ll want to keep making again and again—because who doesn’t love a quick, cozy autumn project?