How to Make a Jewish Head Scarf

Tichels can be made to coordinate with any outfit.

Tichels are headscarves worn by married Jewish women as recommended by Halakha (Jewish law) and tzeniut, the Jewish code of modesty, which state that a woman's hair should only be viewed by her husband. Because they are worn every day, tichels are an important part of a woman's outfit. They may be simple and plain or coordinated to match the rest of her outfit. Making a basic rectangular tichel is easy and allows you to create one out of any thin, flowing fabric you choose.

Things You'll Need

• 2 to 3 yards of fabric (thin silk, georgette and crepe work well)
• Measuring tape
• Tailor's chalk
• Scissors
• Pins
• Iron and ironing board (optional)
• Sewing machine
• Lightweight thread that matches fabric

Instructions

1. Lay the fabric on a flat surface, and measure 68 inches in length. Mark with tailor's chalk.

2. Measure and mark 22 inches in width on the fabric.

3. Cut out the fabric so that you now have a rectangle that is 68 by 22 inches.

4. Roll in the edges of the fabric to form a hem. Pin in place as you go. To roll the hem, fold in the fabric edge once, approximately ¼ inch. Then fold again, tightly, ¼ inch. Then roll twice more. This creates a thin, fine hem.

5. Press press the hem lightly with an iron (optional but recommended).

6. Thread the sewing machine with coordinating, lightweight thread. Sew the hem, using a short running stitch.

7. Clip off any dangling threads.

8. Tie your new tichel as desired. (See Resources for ideas.)

References

• Aish: A Deeper Look at the Jewish Concept of Modesty

Resources

• Head Scarf Tying Instructions