How to Make a Handmade Cowl Scarf

A homemade cowl scarf adds color and warmth to any outfit.

Whether referred to as a cowl scarf, neck gator, or an infinity or circle scarf, these easily made fabric tubes will add a touch of elegance and warmth to any formal or casual wardrobe. These simple accessories are traditionally made using fleece or knit fabrics, but almost any material, including satin, silk, soft denim, old sweaters, flannel shirts or T-shirts, will do. Depending on the desired circumference of a cowl scarf, a full yard of fabric can easily produce one adult scarf and a couple for the kids. Patchwork cowls can be made by stitching soft, colorful fabric remnants together.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric
• Measuring tape
• Washable fabric marker
• Ruler or quilter's square
• Sharp scissors or rotary fabric cutter
• Sewing pins
• Sewing machine
• Matching or invisible thread

Instructions

1. Measure the circumference of your or a model's head around the forehead, and then add 4 inches to the total. Check the fabric for elasticity. If it only stretches in one direction, use that for the width of the cowl scarf.

2. Lay the fabric face down on a work surface, and measure a piece as wide as the total head measurement and to any desired length. Mark the measurements with a fabric marker using a ruler or quilter's square as a guide and cut the fabric using sharp scissors or a rotary fabric cutter.

3. Fold the fabric, matching the short edges and right sides facing, and stitch a 1/2-inch seam across the edge. Stitch each seam allowance to the fabric body close to the edges.

4. Turn under and pin a 1/2-inch seam allowance along either unfinished edge. Stitch a hem close to each outside fold edge.

5. Trim the seam allowances close to the stitching with sharp scissors, then turn under and pin another 1/2-inch fold along the finished edges. Stitch a hem along the inside fold edge. Press the finished cowl scarf if using fabric other than fleece.

6. Cut two fabric rectangles if using satin, silk or similar fabrics to use one as a lining. Pin the fabric pieces together around three edges, right sides facing. Stitch a 1/4-inch seam around the pinned edges. Turn the fabric right side out through the open edge. Fold under the open edge about 1/2 inch and stitch the layers together close to the edge. Proceed to follow Steps 1 through 5 to finish the cowl.

Tips & Warnings

• Embellishments can be added to finished scarves by hand or machine stitching.

• Overstitch seams and hems on the right side of the fabric using a decorative zig-zag or embroidery stitch in a contrasting thread color.

• Use pinking scissors or a pinking rotary blade to cut fabric that frays easily.

References

• The Seattle Times; Easy-To-Make Neck Gaiter Keeps Winter's Chill Away; Holly Ramer
• The Gator Project: Gator (Neck Warmer) Instructions:
• Quick to Make: Stylish Gifts to Craft in a Day; Two Sew-Easy Scarves; Taunton Press