How to Make a Warm Hood/Snood on 2 Knitting Needles (Beginner Friendly)

Here’s a detailed, beginner-friendly guide on how to make a warm knitted hood (or snood) using just 2 straight knitting needles — no circulars, no fancy stitches. It’s cozy, stylish, and super easy to make even if you’ve just started knitting.

 How to Make a Warm Hood/Snood on 2 Knitting Needles (Beginner Friendly)

 What You’ll Need:

• Yarn:
  Bulky or super bulky weight yarn (approx. 200–250 g for adult size).
  Choose something soft and warm — acrylic, wool blend, or chunky alpaca are great.
• Knitting needles:
  Size 8–10 mm (US 11–15) straight needles — suitable for your yarn weight.
• Tapestry (darning) needle: for sewing seams.
• Scissors
• Measuring tape

 Step 1: Measure and Cast On

You’ll knit a rectangular piece that will fold into a hood.

Approximate measurements for adults:

• Width (around your face + extra for looseness): about 18–20 inches (46–51 cm)
• Height (from neck to top of head): about 24 inches (61 cm)

To get that size:

1. Make a small gauge swatch — see how many stitches you get per inch.
2. Multiply that by your target width (around 18–20 inches).
   • Example: If you get 2 stitches per inch → 2 × 20 = 40 stitches to cast on.

 Step 2: Knit the Main Rectangle

Now knit straight until the piece measures about 24 inches long.

You can choose any of these simple stitches:

Option 1: Garter Stitch (Easiest)

• Knit every row.
• Result: Stretchy, thick, and warm — no curling edges.

Option 2: Rib Stitch (A bit more fitted)

• Row 1: K2, P2 across.
• Row 2: Repeat K2, P2.
• Gives a stretchy, snug texture.

Option 3: Stockinette Stitch (Smooth look)

• Row 1: Knit across.
• Row 2: Purl across.
• Edges may curl — so you can add 4 garter-stitch stitches at each edge for stability.

 Step 3: Bind Off

When your rectangle measures about 24 inches, bind off loosely so the edge isn’t tight.

 Step 4: Assemble the Hood

Now, let’s turn your rectangle into a hood!

1. Lay the piece flat — right side (the “pretty” side) facing up.
2. Fold it in half widthwise (short edge to short edge), so it looks like a square.
3. Sew the top seam (from the folded edge toward the back) — this will form the top of your hood.
   • Use a mattress stitch or backstitch with your yarn tail.

Now you have a basic hood shape!

 Step 5: Add the Snood (Neck Warmer) Option

If you want it to sit snugly around your neck (like a hooded cowl):

• Pick up stitches along the bottom edge of the hood (the open side).
• Knit 5–8 inches down in rib stitch (K2, P2) or garter stitch.
• Bind off loosely.

This makes a cozy, stretchy snood that stays on without needing a scarf.

 Optional: Add Finishing Touches

• Drawstring or ties: Thread a cord or i-cord through the front edge.
• Pom-poms or faux fur trim: Add to the top corners.
• Decorative edge: Crochet or picot bind-off around the face opening.

 Easy Variations

• Kids’ version: Cast on fewer stitches (around 30–35) and knit to 18–20 inches.
• Extra thick winter version: Use two strands of yarn held together.
• Striped snood: Alternate colors every 6–8 rows for a fun look.

 Summary

Would you like me to include a simple pattern chart (row-by-row instructions) or a visual guide (illustrations or diagrams showing folding and sewing)?
That can make it even easier to follow for beginners.

Watch tutorial: