Ember & Ash Twisted Cable Earwarmer and Boot Cuffs Free Pattern – Knit a Cozy Flame Set

Wrap yourself in the warm embrace of autumn with this matching earwarmer and boot cuff set, featuring a mesmerizing twisted cable that dances like embers in a fire. Knit in rich, heathered tones, this set adds a touch of handcrafted luxury to any cozy outfit. The twisted cable stitch creates a beautiful, dimensional texture that is surprisingly simple to achieve, making this project perfect for beginners and seasoned knitters alike. Whether you're curling up by the fireplace or heading out for a crisp fall walk, this set will keep you stylishly warm.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following materials to ensure a smooth and enjoyable knitting experience:

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in two colors: Color A (Ember – burnt orange) and Color B (Ash – charcoal grey). Approximately 150 yards of each color for the set.
• Needles: US Size 8 (5.0 mm) knitting needles (or size needed to obtain gauge).
• Cable Needle: A small cable needle for creating the twisted cable stitches.
• Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends and seaming.

Gauge: 20 stitches and 26 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Always check your gauge to ensure the perfect fit.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This pattern is worked flat and seamed, making it perfect for beginners. The twisted cable stitch creates a beautiful, dimensional texture. Follow these detailed instructions carefully, and you'll have a gorgeous set in no time.

Earwarmer

Foundation:
With Color A (Ember), cast on 12 stitches.

Row 1 (Right Side): K2, P2, K4, P2, K2.
Explanation: Knit 2 stitches, purl 2 stitches, knit 4 stitches, purl 2 stitches, knit 2 stitches. This sets up the cable panel in the center.

Row 2 (Wrong Side): P2, K2, P4, K2, P2.
Explanation: Purl 2 stitches, knit 2 stitches, purl 4 stitches, knit 2 stitches, purl 2 stitches. This row creates the reverse stockinette background for the cable.

Row 3: K2, P2, Slip next 2 stitches to cable needle and hold in front, K2 from left needle, K2 from cable needle (C4F), P2, K2.
Explanation: This is the cable twist row. Knit 2, purl 2. Then, slip the next 2 stitches onto your cable needle and hold it at the front of your work. Knit the next 2 stitches from your left needle, then knit the 2 stitches from the cable needle. This creates a left-leaning cable twist. Finish with P2, K2.

Row 4: Repeat Row 2.
Row 5: Repeat Row 1.
Row 6: Repeat Row 2.

Repeat Rows 1-6 until the piece measures approximately 18 inches (or desired head circumference minus 1 inch for stretch). Bind off loosely.

Finishing the Earwarmer:
Fold the piece in half lengthwise, right sides together. Seam the short ends together using mattress stitch. Weave in all ends. The earwarmer will naturally twist, creating a beautiful spiral effect.

Boot Cuffs (Make 2)

Foundation:
With Color B (Ash), cast on 24 stitches.

Row 1 (Right Side): K2, P2, K4, P2, K4, P2, K4, P2, K2.
Explanation: Knit 2, purl 2, knit 4, purl 2, knit 4, purl 2, knit 4, purl 2, knit 2. This creates three separate cable panels separated by purl ridges.

Row 2 (Wrong Side): P2, K2, P4, K2, P4, K2, P4, K2, P2.
Explanation: Purl 2, knit 2, purl 4, knit 2, purl 4, knit 2, purl 4, knit 2, purl 2.

Row 3: K2, P2, C4F, P2, C4F, P2, C4F, P2, K2.
Explanation: Knit 2, purl 2. Then perform a C4F (cable 4 front) as described in the earwarmer: slip 2 stitches to cable needle, hold in front, knit 2 from left needle, knit 2 from cable needle. Repeat this cable twist two more times, separated by P2. Finish with P2, K2.

Row 4: Repeat Row 2.
Row 5: Repeat Row 1.
Row 6: Repeat Row 2.

Repeat Rows 1-6 until the piece measures approximately 8 inches (or desired height). Bind off loosely.

Finishing the Boot Cuffs:
Fold the piece in half lengthwise, right sides together. Seam the short ends together using mattress stitch. Weave in all ends. Repeat for the second boot cuff.

Alternating Color Option

For a more dynamic look, work the earwarmer in Color A and the boot cuffs in Color B, or create stripes by alternating colors every 2 rows. This is a wonderful way to use up scrap yarn and make the set uniquely yours.

Enjoy your handcrafted Ember & Ash set! The rich, heathered tones and twisted cables will keep you cozy and stylish all season long. Happy knitting!