June 18, 2009

Tutorial: Super-Easy Cosy Scarf



Following requests from you guys, here is the tutorial for making a super-quick and easy (but very warm and cosy) winter scarf. If you're new to sewing, this is a nice easy project to undertake. A great stocking filler for Christmas if you live in the Northern Hemisphere, or make one right now if you live near me!

Materials Needed:
  • Sewing Machine
  • 20cm (8 inches) of Polar Fleece in the colour of your choice. [You will use the full width of the fabric selvage to selvage]
  • Matching Thread
  • Scissors
  • Ruler or tape measure

Tips for Success:
  • Use sharp, good quality scissors for cutting a nice straight edge.
  • Pin carefully before sewing to ensure your edges do not roll and slip.
  • For a nice straight seam, use a post-it note or masking tape on your sewing machine to mark where the edge of your fabric should be.
  • Press your fabric using the correct settings on your iron to ensure that you can cut neatly and accurately.
Method:

1. Lay out your fabric and cut a 6 1/2" (or 16 cm) piece of polar fleece. Make sure your edge is nice and straight.


2. Carefully and neatly trim both selvages.


3. Fold the fabric in half along the long edges of the fabric with right sides together and pin securely in place as shown.


4. Sew around the 3 open edges with a 1/2" seam leaving an opening at the end of your sewing for turning your scarf out the right way. Use a 1cm seam if you prefer metric measurements. It's OK if you don't have exactly the same seam allowance as specified provided you are consistent throughout your sewing.

5. Turn your scarf out the right way so the wrong sides are facing inwards.

6. Press your scarf if required, but take care to use the correct setting for this fabric on your iron.

7. Pin around all edges to ensure that your fabric is flat and so that your seam stays straight and does not roll while you are topstitching. Ensure that your open edges are turned under and pinned securely.

8. Topstitch around all four edges of your scarf close to the edge, ensuring that you catch the folded and pinned edges of your opening gap and therefore seal it closed. Keep a neat, straight seam for a nicely finished look. I used a 1cm seam on my scarf.

9. Yay! Your finished! Fasten your scarf around your neck, or fold it neatly and take a photo and be sure to send it to me so I can see your lovely work!


Variations:
  • Make this scarf in different lengths, widths and colours to suit the person who will wear it. You might like to make a tiny one for your little person!
  • If you are confident, why not try topstitching some more straight lines along the length of the scarf for a ribbed effect?
Enjoy this tutorial, and don't forget I would love to see your finished products!


4 comments:

  1. Hi there, I just love your blog and I have just put a link from my blog, hope you don't mind. I made the crowns for my girls and have written a post about them.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Will have to bookmark this one for later this winter. Looks dead cosy.
    Cool to have found your blog.

    ReplyDelete

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