This easy crochet ear warmer pattern uses linked stitches to create a snug and stylish accessory, perfect for keeping you cozy on chilly days. The clever twist detail, made with simple seaming, gives it a polished, modern look that’s sure to turn heads.
Scroll down for the free written pattern, or purchase the ad-free, print-friendly PDF here.
In This Post
Where to Get This Pattern
Option 1: Scroll on down to get this pattern for free!
Option 2: Purchase the easy-to-read, print-friendly PDF:
Why Upgrade to the PDF?
I get asked all the time, “Why should I get the PDF when the pattern is free on the blog?” And the simple answer is – you absolutely don’t have to! The basic written pattern is right here, free for you to view, supported by the ads on the site.
But if you’re looking for something a little extra, then PDF is a great option if you:
- like to print out your patterns to work on wherever you go.
- find stitch tutorials, schematics, and extras super helpful.
- prefer an ad-free experience without distractions.
- want lifetime access to your pattern.
- use a tablet with apps like Goodnotes, you can easily highlight, annotate, and keep notes with a stylus while you crochet.
Why I Love This Ear Warmer Pattern
This linked stitch ear warmer is the ultimate blend of style and functionality! The linked stitches give the fabric a smooth, stretchy texture, making it both warm and lightweight – perfect for those chilly fall and winter days.
The design is sleek and simple, which means it fits snugly around your head without adding bulk.
The pattern is versatile and comes in six sizes, from Baby to Adult L, so you can make ear warmers for the whole family! Pair this ear warmer with the coordinating wrist warmers for a complete cozy set. It’s sure to become your go-to accessory this season!
Skill Level
This pattern is perfect for beginners who want to try something new or those looking for a quick, easy project. While the linked stitch might be unfamiliar to you, don’t worry – there is a full video tutorial to guide you along the way!
OK, Let’s Make This Twisted Ear Warmer!
1. Gather Your Materials
Yarn
Any #3 DK/Lightweight yarn works great for this pattern. I used WeCrochet Alpaca Cloud DK (which has been discontinued), but no worries – there are plenty of excellent alternatives out there!
Look for yarns that are soft, warm, and have some stretch, like wool or wool blends. The written pattern below lists plenty of suitable yarns for this project.
Hook
You’ll need a 4.5mm (US 7) crochet hook for this pattern, which pairs perfectly with DK yarn to create that snug and stretchy fabric.
2. Grab Your Pattern
Before you get started, take a moment to read through the entire pattern. This will help you familiarize yourself with the construction and linked stitch technique.
Scroll down for the free written pattern, or purchase the ad-free, print-friendly PDF here.
The PDF includes step-by-step photos for the linked stitches and no ads – making it easy to print and follow along.
Here’s a quick look at the headband construction:
- Foundation Chain or Setup: You’ll begin by chaining the number of stitches needed to match the circumference of the ear warmer for your chosen size. The project is worked flat, lengthwise.
- Main Pattern: Continue working linked stitches across each row to create a smooth, gap-free fabric. Follow the instructions for your selected size, repeating rows until you reach the desired height.
- Finishing: After reaching the correct height, fold the ear warmer in half. “Interlock” the short edges, then seam them together to create the twist. Weave in the ends to complete your project. For more details on the twist and seaming technique, check out the video tutorial, or the step-by-step photos in the pattern PDF.
3. Tips & Tricks for Success!
Gauge
For this pattern, gauge is important to ensure a perfect fit. If you need to use a different hook than the one listed in the pattern then that is no problem – the main goal is to match the gauge in the pattern!
Customizations
This pattern is easy to modify! You can change the length to make a wider/narrower headband by adding or reducing the number of rows. You could also use a different yarn weight to create a chunkier or lighter ear warmer—just be sure to adjust your hook size and gauge.
Negative Ease
For a snug fit, make your headband about 2″ smaller than the actual head circumference of the wearer – this is called negative ease. The stretchiness of the linked stitches will ensure a comfortable fit. Not sure about sizing? Check out my hat size chart for a handy guide!
Crochet Twist Ear Warmer Video Tutorial
Linked Stitch Ear Warmer Written Pattern
Pattern Notes
Please read through the entire pattern before beginning.
Skill Level
Easy
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- beg = beginning
- beg ldc = beginning linked double crochet (see Special Stitches)
- beg ltr = beginning linked treble crochet (see Special Stitches)
- ch = chain
- ldc = linked double crochet (see Special Stitches)
- ltr = linked treble crochet (see Special Stitches)
- RS = Right Side
- sk = skip
- st(s) = stitch(es)
- WS = Wrong Side
General Pattern Notes
- The stitch count for each row is given in [ ] at the end of the row.
- If no stitch count is given, then the count is the same as the previous row.
- Instructions are written for multiple sizes as follows: Baby (Toddler, Child, Tween, Adult S, Adult L)
- Before you start, go through the pattern and highlight/mark the stitch counts and rows that correspond to the size you are making (this will make your life much easier!).
Materials
Yarn
Any #3/DK/Light weight yarn. The amounts given here are for WeCrochet Alpaca Cloud DK* in the colorway “Sophia” (123yds/112m per 50g ball; Weight: #3/DK/Lightweight; 100% Baby Alpaca).
*This yarn has been discontinued but suitable alternatives are listed below.
| SIZE | Yarn required |
| Baby | 66 yds / 60m |
| Toddler | 79 yds / 72m |
| Child | 123 yds / 112m |
| Tween | 133 yds / 122m |
| Adult S | 185 yds / 169m |
| Adult L | 204 yds / 187m |
Alternative yarn options:
- $ – Paintbox Yarns Simply DK (100% Acrylic)
- $$ – WeCrochet Swish DK (100% Fine Superwash Merino Wool)
- $$ – WeCrochet Andean Treasure (100% Baby Alpaca)
- $$$ – King Cole Baby Alpaca DK (100% Baby Alpaca)
- $$$ – Debbie Bliss Cashmerino DK (55% Merino Wool 33% Acrylic 12% Cashmere)
Hook
4.5mm (US 7) crochet hook (or hook required to meet gauge)
Other Items
- Yarn needle
Finished Measurements
| SIZE | To Fit Head Circumference | Finished Circumference | Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baby | 14″-16″ / 35.5cm – 40.5cm | 13.5″ / 34cm | 2.5″ / 6.5cm |
| Toddler | 16″-18″ / 40.5cm – 45.5cm | 15.5″ / 39.5cm | 2.5″ / 6.5cm |
| Child | 18″-20″ / 45.5cm – 51cm | 17.5″ / 44cm | 3.5″ / 9cm |
| Tween | 20″-22″ / 51cm – 56cm | 19″ / 48.5cm | 3.5″ / 9cm |
| Adult (Small) | 22″-23″ / 56cm – 58.5cm | 20.5″ / 52cm | 4.5″ / 11.5cm |
| Adult (Large) | 23″-24″ / 58.5cm – 61cm | 22.5″ / 57.5cm | 4.5″ / 11.5cm |
Gauge
17 sts x 8 rows = 4″ x 4″ / 10 cm x 10 cm measured over alternating rows of ltr and ldc (see Special Stitches).
Special Stitches
Beginning linked double crochet (beg ldc)
Step 1: Ch 2.
Step 2: Insert hook in back bump of second chain and pull up a loop. [2 loops on hook]
Step 3: Insert hook in first st of previous row and pull up a loop. [3 loops on hook]Step 4: (Yarn over and pull through two loops) 2 times.
Linked double crochet (ldc)
Step 1: Insert hook in first vertical bar of previous stitch and pull up a loop. [2 loops on hook]
Step 2: Insert hook in next st and pull up a loop. [3 loops on hook]
Step 3: (Yarn over and pull through two loops) 2 times.
Beginning linked treble crochet (beg ltr)
Step 1: Ch 3.
Step 2: Insert hook and pull up a loop in back bump of second and third chs. [3 loops on hook]
Step 3: Insert hook in first st of previous row and pull up a loop. [4 loops on hook]
Step 4: (Yarn over and pull through two loops) 3 times.
Linked treble crochet (ltr)
Step 1: Insert hook and pull up a loop in first and second vertical bars of previous stitch. [3 loops on hook]
Step 2: Insert hook in next st and pull up a loop. [4 loops on hook]
Step 3: (Yarn over and pull through two loops) 3 times.
Adjustments
To add/subtract length, chain any multiple of 1 + 3 to start.
To add/subtract height, repeat Rows 2-3 until the desired height is reached. End on a Row 3 repeat.
Written Pattern
All Sizes: Baby (Toddler, Child, Tween, Adult S, Adult L)
Ch 60 (69, 77, 84, 90, 99).
Row 1 (RS): Insert hook and pull up a loop second ch from hook and each of next 2 chs (4 loops on hook), (yarn over and pull through two loops) 3 times (beg ltr made), *ltr (working last leg into back bump of next ch), repeat from * across, turn. [57 (66, 74, 81, 87, 96)]
Row 2 (WS): Beg ldc in first st, ldc in next st and each st across, turn.
Row 3: Beg ltr in first st, ltr in next st and each st across, turn.
Rows 4 – 5 (5, 7, 7, 9, 9): Repeat Rows 2-3. Ensure that you end on a Row 3 repeat.
Fasten off, leaving a long tail for seaming.
Assembly
1. Fold in half
Lay the ear warmer flat with the RS facing up.
Fold short edges inward to meet in the center.
2. Interlock the short edges
With your left hand, fold the left short edge in half to make a “C” shape.
With your right hand, fold the right short edge in half to make an inverted “C” shape.
Insert one folded side into the other, so that the edges are neatly stacked.
3. Seam the layers
Thread your yarn needle with the long tail. Seam the 4 layers together by weaving in and out along the edges.
Make sure that you go through all 4 layers with each stitch!
Once you have reached the end, work back over the seam with a row of whip stitches to secure in place.
FINISHING
Weave in ends. Turn the ear warmer the right way around, adjusting the twist if necessary. All done!
If you wish, you can purchase an inexpensive, ad-free PDF version of this pattern through Ravelry or Etsy.
I hope you have enjoyed this pattern, if you have questions at all, please don't hesitate to contact me. And be sure to tag your finished project on Instagram or Facebook using @nedandmimi or #nedandmimi!
Happy crocheting!
Sarah