How to Sew a Scarf

Scarves come in two main styles: warm winter scarves and accessory scarves. Winter scarves are often made from polar fleece, since it’s thick and soft, and requires no sewing. All you have to do is cut the fleece to the size you want the scarf, then cut slits in the ends for fringe if desired. Accessory scarves can be worn all year long to dress up blouses and work clothes, and they’re often made from polyester, rayon or silk. To sew these kinds of scarves, you may want to use a rolled hem foot, if your sewing machine has one, so that the hems will be extra small. You’ll need 1/4 to 1/2 yard of fabric, depending on the size you want the accessory scarf.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric
• Matching thread
• Scissors
• Iron
• Ironing board
• Sewing machine
• Rolled hem foot (optional)

Instructions

Sew a Scarf With Standard Hems

1. Cut the fabric about 1 inch wider and 1 inch longer than you want the finished scarf.

2. Fold one edge of the fabric over about 1/4 inch toward the wrong side of the fabric, then fold it over another 1/4 inch. This will keep the edge of the scarf from raveling.

3. Preheat the iron to an appropriate temperature for the type of scarf fabric. Most accessory scarves are made from silk or synthetic fabric, so they require a low iron temperature.

4. Press the fold flat. Stitch along the folded edge using matching thread.

5. Repeat Steps 2 through 4 for the remaining edges of the scarf.

Sew a Scarf With Rolled Hems

1. Cut the fabric into about 1/2 inch wider and 1/2 inch longer than you want the finished scarf.

2. Remove the standard presser foot from your sewing machine. Attach the rolled hem foot to the sewing machine, making sure it’s securely in place.

3. Fold the top 3 inches of one edge of the scarf over 1/8 inch toward the wrong side of the fabric, then fold it over another 1/8 inch. Hold the folds with your fingers.

4. Insert the folded edge of the scarf into the sewing machine. Lower the needle, then lower the rolled hem foot.

5. Stitch about 1 1/2 to 2 inches of the top of the scarf, then stop and raise the presser foot. Insert the cut edge of the scarf into the slot in the rolled hem foot. Lower the foot and continue stitching, letting the machine fold the fabric with the rolled hem foot.

6. Repeat Steps 3 through 5 for the other sides of the scarf.

Tips & Warnings

• When working with delicate scarf fabrics, especially silk, make sure to use a fine needle in your sewing machine

• If you haven’t used a rolled hem foot before, you may want to practice on a scrap of fabric first.

• Use caution when working with scissors, irons and sewing machines.