A crocheted gray velvet headband rests on a botanical background
Velvet Twist Headband in Misty Gray

Happy November: cooler temps and cozy winter crochet projects! One of my favorite yarns to work with in the winter is Bernat Velvet Yarn by Yarnspirations. My velvet knotted scrunchies are made with it and it’s great for other accessories, too.

Last week the morning temps dropped into the high 30s, which always kicks my winter crochet rear into gear. Amigurumi takes a back seat and I’m all about those cozy projects.

Velvet Yarn For Days

One of my favorite yarns to work with in the winter is Bernat Velvet by Yarnspirations. My velvet knotted scrunchies are made with it and it’s great for other accessories, too.

Or even amigurumi: check out my post on crocheting velvet amigurumi here.

I recently found a pattern for a velvet twist headband and thought I’d give it a try! The instructions on sizing were to measure your head circumference and make your headband three inches shorter. I did so but I think I slip-stitched mine together a bit too tightly because it’s not quite big enough for me. I also used regular velvet instead of the called-for baby velvet, so maybe it’s not as stretchy? It fits my 4-year-old perfectly, though.

Speaking of my 4-year-old!

What happens when you combine a 4-year-old, a cup of coffee and a velvet headband? My latest Etsy offering: a hand-dyed, coffee-scented velvet accessory!

Kidding. Unless you want one!

How To Handwash Velvet Yarn

Regular Bernat velvet yarn requires handwashing and air drying (not to be confused with Bernat baby velvet, which can be machine washed and dried). I got to put it to the coffee test! I’m happy to report that it passed with flying colors. Or maybe I’m the one who passed? I sprayed it with my Shout stain remover and soaked it in cold water with some Woolite and the coffee came right out. You can’t even tell now! Since the headband is double-sided and made with a tighter, thicker stitch, it took FOREVER to dry. It didn’t occur to me to set it outside in the Texas sun until day 3. I’m sure it would’ve dried much faster out there!

I had my doubts about handwashing the velvet but the yarn held up just fine (stitches too, which can sometimes worm their velvety way loose). Give velvet yarn a try if you haven’t already!

Image: How to wash velvet yarn
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