Instructions for Fleece Shawls

A fleece shawl keeps the wearer warm and can also be a practical gift. Generally, fleece is an inexpensive material, as it comes in 60-inch widths. A fleece shawl is not a difficult project, and is a perfect way to begin to learn how to sew.

Purchasing the Fleece

Purchasing about 2 1/3 yards of fabric will be enough for two shawls, allowing you to keep one and give the other as a gift, if you wish. Make sure the fleece is not the cheaper variety that sheds or creates little balls, especially if the shawl will be a gift. Fleeces have different grades of softness and thickness. The thicker fleeces are usually softer and more durable. Fleece is machine washable, so those receiving the shawl as a gift do not have to worry about dry cleaning.

Making the Fleece Shawl

Place the fleece material on a cutting table and cut it in half lengthwise. If you purchased less yardage, cut the width of the material to equal the size of shawl that you want to make. Cut the edges off of the selvedge edge and square the ends of the fabric. If desired, use an embroidery hoop or a small dinner plate to round the corners of the shawl.

Although polar fleece does not fray, finished edges make a nicer-looking shawl. Finish the edges of the shawl using a serger or by using a decorative stitch on a sewing machine. Just sew around all of the edges of the shawl. Use a different color of thread to give more eye appeal to the finished product.

Adding Pockets

If pockets are desired, cut a 10- to 14-inch strip off the bottom of the material before cutting the shawl. Cut that piece in half; this makes two pockets for the shawl. Turn the four edges of the pocket piece under about one inch, or leave one raw edge unfinished, as it can be finished when the raw edge of the shawl is finished. Use an iron and press the hem on the pockets. Sew the hem in place as close to the turned under raw edge as is possible.

The easiest area to place the pocket is along the bottom edge of the shawl. Mark the center of the bottom edge of the pocket, and mark the center area of the location where the pocket is going to be. Use a sewing marker with disappearing ink for this or a straight pin can be used. Match up the marks and pin the pocket in place. Sew the sides of the pocket into place (remove the pins before they come into contact with the needle). There is no need to sew the bottom edge of the pocket if it is aligned with the bottom of the shawl, as the pocket is sewn on when the shawl edges are finished.

For more decoration, sew an appliqué or embroider the center of the pocket before sewing the pocket onto the shawl.