How to Make a Kippah

Four-triangle kippah

Jewish tradition requires men and boys to cover their heads as a sign of respect for G-d. Different Jewish communities have their own traditions for kippot from the common dome-shaped disc to the intricate, ornate and colorful Yemeni hats worn by Jewish men. There is no requirement for what the kippah must look like, and some kippot are basic black velvet or silk; others are fun designs appropriate for children or adults. Yarmulke is the Yiddish word for kippah. In Hebrew, one dome-shaped head covering is a kippah; two or more are kippot.

Things You'll Need

• Material Sewing scissors Thread Sewing machine or needle Bias binding Optional: fusible interfacing Iron

Instructions

1. Perhaps the easiest way to make a kippah is to take four identical, triangular pieces of fabric. The sides of the triangles should be about 5 inches long. This allows for 1/4-inch seams. If the material is flimsy, you can iron fusible interfacing on the backs of the triangles.

2. Place the right sides of two triangles together and sew or stitch 1/4-inch seams on one side only. Repeat with the other two triangles. You now have two separate pieces of fabric.

3. Place the right sides of the two pieces of fabric together. Sew a 1/4-inch seam on one open side, from the top of the kippah to about 1 inch before you reach the edge. At this point, angle no more than another 1/4 inch to make a small dart. This helps create a dome instead of a flat piece of fabric. Repeat on the other open side.

4. 

   To finish, turn kippah right side out and sew a bias binding around the outside edge to finish the kippah.

5. 

   Take fabric paint and decorate the bottom edge of the kippah in a unique design.

6. Alternatively, use six narrower triangles instead of four wide triangles. Follow the steps above.

7. 

   If you know already know how to crochet, it is easy to crochet a kippah. Start from the center and work you way around until the disc is large enough. Use a clip to secure to head.

Tips & Warnings

• Alter the measurements above to create a perfect, personalized fit for the child or adult who will wear the kippah. You will most likely need a flat clip to hold the kippah in place.

Resources

• Kippah Pattern with Two Pieces of Fabric
• More on Making Kippah
• Crochet Patterns for Kippot