DIY Shemagh

The shemagh originates from the traditional turban.

The shemagh is used in desert climates to protect the face -- including the head, nose and ears -- from the elements. You can create your own shemagh by purchasing a sheet of cotton cloth and wrapping it in a traditional manner around your head. There are no special threads or materials that are needed, so making this headpiece is a simple, cost effective and easy solution for any occasion when you need to protect your head from the elements.

Things You'll Need

• Cloth sheet

Instructions

1. Pick the color and style of fabric that you would like to use for your shemagh. You can choose a patterned design or go with a solid color. Be sure to select a soft cloth such as cotton. You will need a sheet of cloth that is 42 inches wide by at least 51 inches long for a medium-size shemagh; you may wish to extend the length to 76 inches if you want a large shemagh.

2. Fold the cloth into the shape of a triangle by folding diagonally from the bottom right corner to the top left corner.

3. Place the part of the cloth that is folded over against your forehead and wrap the cloth around your head. Distribute the material so that two-thirds of the material hangs over the left side of your head, with the right end touching the top of your chest.

4. Pinch about three inches of the left-hand side from the folded portion of your cloth. Hold the end near your cheek and then, with your right hand, pull the sheet across your face so that it covers your nose. Wrap it all the way around your head until the cloth is resting over your left shoulder again.

5. Pull both ends up around your temple and tie them into a square knot to keep them secure. Experiment with the tension in the shemagh until you find the amount that is comfortable for you.

References

• Brigade Quartermasters: Shemagh Wrap Instructions
• Hookah-Hookah: How to Wear/Tie Shemagh