MATERIALS:
1 skein bulky weight yarn
(I used Classic Elite Yarns: Wynter in 7613 Black)
size 9 needles
crochet hook
scrap yarn
tapestry needle

GAUGE:
6 sts & 5 rows = 1 inch

PATTERN:
Do a provisional cast on (chain 15 sts).
Knit into first 7 sts, turn.
Row 1(RS): k1, *p1, k1.
Row 2(WS): p1, *k1, p1.

Repeat these two rows for a total of 6 rows.
Cut yarn.

With WS facing, knit into last 7 sts on chain.
Work same as first side, for a total of 6 rows.

Now you will be working over both 7 st sections, joining them together.
Row 7 (RS): (k1, p1) 3 times, kfb, k1, (p1, k1) 3 times.
Row 8 (WS): Work in rib patt (k the knits & p the purls).
Row 9 (RS): Work over 7 sts in rib patt, m1R, p1, m1L, work last 7 sts in rib patt.
Row 10 (WS): Same as row 8.
Row 11 (RS): Work over 6 sts, kfb, k1, p1, kfb, work over last 7 sts.
Row 12 (WS): Same as rows 8 & 10.
**You now have a total of 19 sts.

Continue in rib patt until headband measures 15.75," ending on a WS row.

Next row (RS): Work 8 sts in rib patt, k2tog, p1, ssk, work 8 sts.
(WS): Work in rib patt (k the knits & p the purls).
(RS): Work 6 sts, k2tog, p1, ssk, work 6 sts.
(WS): Work in rib patt (k the knits & p the purls).

You will now be dividing the headband into separate pieces, so that it looks the same as the cast-on edge.
(RS): Work 6 sts, k2tog, work 7 sts.
(WS): Work 7 sts, turn.
Row 1(RS): k1, *p1, k1.
Row 2(WS): p1, *k1, p1.

Work for a total of 6 rows, ending with a RS row.
Cut yarn and move to other side, starting on a WS row.
Work for a total of 6 rows, ending with a RS row.
Kitchener these two ends together.

Now take one of the sides at the cast-on edge and put it through the hole at the end of the headband. Loop the symmetrical side around and kitchener them shut. Weave in ends. Ta-da!