速度 (Sokudo) Velocity /vəˈlɑsət̮i/ 1 : the speed of something in a particular direction 2 : high speed
Is it a sign of getting old when the dorky clothes of your childhood come back to haunt you as the “newest” fashion trends? High waisted jeans, baggy sweaters, and oversized hair clips are trickling back in.
I’m sure it happened with the 80’s rehash (that seemingly started in 1991). Were adults in 2003 annoyed with the return of neon accessories and polyester zip ups?
But in the last 20 years of 1987, something has been missing: the wide banded, 80’s style headband. Remember those?
I can almost feel the simple, thick band keeping my ears warm on ski trips and walks to school, allowing my ponytail to peek through, and I’m instantly taken back to my childhood.
There’s just something about it that’s inexplicably tied to my childhood, so I’m creating this pattern to do my part to bring it back. Why should leg warmers have all the fun?
Here’s a simple pattern to make your own, in just a few hours (allowing generous time for those who may knit a little slower than others). This is also a marvelous stash-buster, so feel free to make multiples and tie up those loose ends, so to speak.
Bonus points if you use 80’s neon colors.
I know you’ll love it.
Sokudo Headband Pattern
Materials
32-40 grams worsted weight yarn (approximately 65-80 yards). You should be able to make several headbands with one skein. Example image uses We Are Knitters Pima Cotton, Caron Simply Soft, and Lion Brand Hometown.
Size 8 double pointed or circular needles (16” cord recommended)
Stitch marker
Pattern Details
Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows equal 4×4 inches (10 cm)
Finished headband measures 18” (S/M), 21” (L/XL), 14” (children’s)
Pattern is worked in one piece, then folded along the seam.
Instructions
Cast on 78 (90,60) using traditional cast on method.
Place marker and join for knitting in the round.
Rows 1-14: Knit all stitches
If creating a double sided headband, switch colors. Otherwise continue with same yarn.
Row 15: Purl all stitches
Rows 16-30: Knit all stitches
Cast off: Fold your headband in half crosswise with knit stitches facing outwards. Use the purl row as the halfway point. If you switched colors, tie your ends together tightly and trim (they will be sewn into the inside of the headband and you do not need to weave them in).
Pick up your first knit stitch and the first stitch from your first row and knit them together. Continue along the seam until all stitches are cast off.
Weave in the remaining end.
***Please note, your headband will only stretch as far as your cast-off edge. Cast off loosely to avoid a tight, rigid band.
We’d love to see your work. Tag us on Instagram with #sokudoheadband @rakugaki.knitwear.