Free Crochet Pattern: Braided 5 Strand Headband/Ear Warmer

This pattern came about for the sole purpose of keeping my ears warm while we go on bike rides in the country. Seriously, the last time we went, I was fine everywhere except my ears. They were so cold, they hurt!

So, I looked online for some inspiration and saw an ear warmer that was braided. The one I saw was only 4 strands, but it was made with bulky yarn. I had a worsted weight yarn that I wanted to use so I decided to just make my own pattern. Without further ado, here it is!

Materials:
-worsted weight yarn (I used Hobby Lobby's I Love This Yarn! Metallic in Ivory)
-5.5mm hook
-yarn needle

Terms:
ch = chain
hdc = half double crochet
in front 3rd loop = when looking at your work, there is a loop in front of the 2 that you would normally put your hook through, so you'll put your hook in the extra loop in front in order to work in the 3rd loop
sc = single crochet
sl st = slip stitch

Instructions:

Strands: Make 5
ch 87
Row 1: hdc in 3rd loop from hook and across (85)
Row 2: ch 2, hdc, hdc in front 3rd loop x 83, hdc (85)
Finish off and weave in ends (except on the 5th strand).

Face all strands the same way, working across all 5.

Row 1: ch 1, sc in each strand end twice (10)
Row 2: ch 2, hdc in each st across (10)
Fasten off and weave in ends.

With the textured sides of your strands facing up, braid them together, making sure to keep your braid somewhat tight.

When you're done with your braid, pull up yarn at the end of the strand at the far right and repeat rows 1-2 from before, just like the other end.

Join your ends together and sl st the ends to form your headband. Fasten off and make sure all ends are woven in.

And that's it! I was able to finish this in just a couple hours, using less than a skein of yarn. Now that's my favorite kind of project!