Cable Ear Warmer

Cable Ear Warmer by Angela Plunkett

What is Being Made

The Cable Ear Warmer is a cozy headband designed to keep ears warm during cold weather. Created by Angela Plunkett of Little Monkey's Designs, this crochet project is available in three sizes: Toddler, Child, and Adult. The finished ear warmer measures 4.5 inches wide all the way around and accommodates head circumferences ranging from 20 to 26 inches, with some stretch and give in the fabric for comfortable wear.

Techniques Used

This advanced crochet project features specialized post stitches that create the distinctive cable texture characteristic of this design. The primary techniques include front post stitches and back post stitches, which are worked around the posts of previous stitches rather than into the top loops. These post-based techniques create dimensional, three-dimensional cable effects that give the ear warmer its textured appearance and visual interest. The construction method involves working in rows, with the finished piece being sewn together at the ends to form the complete headband.

Stitches Used

The Cable Ear Warmer pattern incorporates the following crochet stitches:

• Chain (ch) – used for foundation and turning chains
• Slip Stitch (sl st) – for joining and finishing
• Single Crochet (sc) – basic stitch for structure
• Half Double Crochet (hdc) – medium-height stitch for fabric density
• Double Crochet (dc) – taller stitch for drape and coverage
• Triple Crochet (tc) – extra-tall stitch for specific shaping
• Front Post Triple (Fptr) – worked by inserting the hook from front to back to front around the post of a stitch, creating raised cable texture
• Front Post Double Triple (Fpdtr) – similar to Fptr but taller, worked with three yarn overs for additional height and dimension
• Back Post Double Crochet (Bpdc) – worked from the back of the post to create alternating cable patterns

Materials

This pattern requires minimal materials, making it an efficient project to complete. The yarn specified is worsted weight (weight 4), classified as medium thickness, and only one ball is needed for any of the three sizes. A Size H crochet hook is used to work with the worsted weight yarn, providing the appropriate gauge for the cable stitches. A yarn needle is listed as optional, though it would be helpful for weaving in ends and sewing the finished piece together.