How to Make Snap-on Obi

An obi is a traditional Japanese kimono closure. They are usually tied in the back to form a beautiful, intricate bow. Creating a snap-on obi cuts down dressing time and is ideal for theatrical situations where time is valuable.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Three yards of fabric
• Two poles
• Two hooks
• Two eyes
• Four whopper-popper snaps

Making the Belt

1. Measure around your waist and add about 5 inches. This will be the measurement for your obi's width.

2. Fold your fabric, and cut a piece of fabric that is 16 inches wide by your new waist measurement.

3. With right sides together, sew together the edges of the longest edge and one short edge, leaving a 5/8-inch seam allowance. You should now have one 14.5-inch opening.

4. Flip the tube you've created inside out.

5. Turn in and pin the open edge 5/8 inch.

6. Stitch the pin edge at 1/4 inch.

7. Top stitch the top of the obi belt at 1/4 inch all the way around.

8. Wrap the obi around your waist until the fit is to your liking, and mark where the top layer ends.

9. Sew the hooks onto the short edge of the top layer, and sew the eyes on your markings.

Making the Bow

10. Repeat steps 1 to 6 in the previous section, adding about 10 inches to the length.

11. Tie this second piece into a large bow, leaving at least 8 inches on each end of the bow. Fluff the bow to make it large.

12. Sew the male part of two whopper-poppers to the bow's center and one to each side of the bow.

13. Center the bow on the obi's belt, and sew the female parts of the whopper-poppers to finish the obi.

Tips & Warnings

• Using heavier-weight or starched fabric will allow you to better mold your bow. Taffeta is a good choice for an obi.
• If the bow is too long, shorten it by cutting one side, turning it in and sewing it again.

Resources

• The Cosplay Alchemist Tutorial: Making a Pretied Obi Bow
• Individual Chic: How to make an Obi