Fanore

Fanore Retro Bandana Headwear by That Metzbower Girl Designs

What is Being Made

Fanore is a retro-style bandana headwear accessory designed by Melissa Metzbower. This knitted headwear piece measures 7 inches wide by 40 inches long when finished, making it a versatile accessory suitable for various styling and wearing methods. The design is worked as a continuous piece from one end to the other, creating a unified construction.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Fanore bandana employs several key knitting techniques to achieve its distinctive retro aesthetic. The pattern is constructed using a strategic progression of increases and decreases that shape the piece from a narrow tie at one end, through an expanded main body section, and back down to a second tie. This shaping method creates visual interest and functional versatility in the finished accessory.

The pattern utilizes charted stitch patterns to guide the knitter through the design. Multiple chart repeats are worked during the construction process, specifically Chart A which is repeated four times during the first tie section. This chart-based approach allows for precise stitch placement and pattern consistency throughout the piece.

Stitches Used

The Fanore pattern incorporates fundamental knitting stitches combined with specialty techniques. Stockinette stitch forms the foundation of the design, providing a smooth, classic fabric base. The pattern also features a specialized stitch called Kfbf (knit into the front, back, then front of stitch), which increases the stitch count by 2 stitches in a single stitch. This increase technique is strategically employed during the shaping sections to expand the bandana from the narrow tie into the wider main body.

The pattern uses charted stitch instructions that guide the knitter through specific stitch sequences during different sections of the project, ensuring proper shaping and pattern alignment throughout the construction.

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: The pattern calls for Louet Gems Fingering Weight yarn in 4-ply weight. This yarn is composed of 100% Merino wool, offering softness and breathability ideal for a headwear accessory. One skein of color 63 Candy Apple Red (137 yards / 126 meters per 50 grams) is required to complete the project.

Needles and Notions: US 2 / 2.75mm knitting needles are used for this project. A tapestry needle is needed for weaving in ends upon completion.

Gauge and Difficulty

The Fanore pattern is rated as Intermediate skill level, suitable for knitters with foundational knowledge and some experience. The gauge is worked at two different densities depending on the stitch being used: 28 stitches by 44 rows equals 4 inches in stockinette stitch, while the charted stitch pattern works at 20 stitches by 28 rows per 4-inch square. Understanding and maintaining proper gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements of 7 inches wide by 40 inches long.

The project is available as a downloadable PDF pattern from That Metzbower Girl Designs and is intended for personal use only.