How to sew a twist headband – free tutorial and pattern

A twist headband is quick to sew, keeps your ears warm on chilly days and simply looks lovely with its turban style. Our Head Hugger is a wide knotted headband made for jersey. The clever part: the knot is created just by folding and a single seam. The pattern is available for free in eleven sizes, from kids to women.

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What you need

• Jersey – depending on size, approx. 35 × 16 cm to 54 × 24 cm
• a sewing machine, pins or fabric clips
• fabric scissors or a rotary cutter
• the free Head Hugger pattern

The tutorial is easy to follow for beginners with basic sewing skills.

Choosing the right size and fabric

The size is based on head circumference – the pattern covers 38 to 60 cm. It is optimised for cotton jersey. You can also sew the Head Hugger from rib knit, French terry, fleece or knitwear: very stretchy fabrics are cut a little shorter, less stretchy ones a little longer. The exact amounts are in the free pattern.

How to sew a twist headband – step by step

Step 1: Close the long side

Cut the headband 1× on the fold. Fold it lengthwise, right sides together, so the long edges line up exactly, and sew the long side.

Step 2: Turn and press

Turn the headband right side out so the seam is on the inside. Press it flat and centre the seam.

Step 3: Fold in half

Fold the headband in half. The two ends overlap offset – each by half its width. The seam side faces outwards.

Step 4: Fold the lower end up

Fold the lower end up so it completely wraps around the other half. The two ends now sit inside each other with all raw edges lined up.

Step 5: Fold into a Z shape

Now fold the remaining open end in half to the other side. This creates a Z shape with all fabric layers stacked neatly. The seam sits on the outer edge. Sew along the folded edge with a straight stitch so all layers are secured.

Step 6: Trim the seam allowance

Carefully trim the excess seam allowance for a clean edge.

Step 7: Turn – done!

Turn the headband right side out, shape the knot and press it once more. Your Head Hugger is finished!

Tips from our sewing room

• Use up scraps: a kids' headband only needs a small piece of jersey – perfect for leftovers from your last shirt or hoodie.
• Matching looks: with sizes up to 60 cm head circumference, you can sew a matching one for yourself too.
• For winter: made from fleece or knitwear, the Head Hugger becomes a cosy ear warmer.

Frequently asked questions

Which fabric is best for a twist headband?

Cotton jersey works best – the pattern is made for it. Rib knit, French terry, fleece or knitwear work too; just adjust the length to the stretch.

How is the knot made?

Just by folding: the two ends are tucked into each other and sewn together in a Z shape. Once turned, it looks knotted.

Is this tutorial suitable for beginners?

Yes, with basic skills it's easy to manage. You only need two seams, and every step is explained with photos in the free pattern.

More headbands and hats

Want more? Our muslin headband with bow is free too, just like the beanie & loop scarf Hipst.aa. Find all patterns in our overview Headbands, Hats & Accessories.

Show us your make with #babinaapatterns and #headhugger!