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Tutorial: Make a silk scarf

make a silk scarf

Fall is the perfect time of year for extra-long, colorful silk scarves that can be tied in a big floppy neck bow. This scarf would be particularly awesome with a matching skirt and little jacket or sweater. It’s made in silk charmeuse, which shows off saturated colors so well. And depending on how you tie it, you can emphasize the shiny side or the matte.

make a silk scarf

This version utilizes a french seam connecting two long pieces of fabric, which means it uses a small amount of yardage. The edges of all four sides have a hand rolled hem. Now, I won’t lie, a hand rolled hem takes time. But it has such a wonderfully soft, handmade look, like something from an old-fashioned tailor or dressmaker.

make a silk scarf

First, you need about half a yard of silk charmeuse. From this, cut two long strips: 1/2 yard long, by about 10 inches wide. You may choose to vary the width to make a wide or narrow scarf.

Next, piece the two strips end to end, following the tutorial How to create a french seam.

Last, hem all four sides, following the tutorial How to create a hand rolled hem.

Wear it wrapped around your neck several times, or tie in a big bow. You can even use this as an obi-style belt, or tie it in your hair.

Sarai Mitnick

Founder

Sarai started Colette back in 2009. She believes the primary role of a business should be to help people. She loves good books, sewing with wool, her charming cats, working in her garden, and eating salsa.

Comments

Anne Weaver

February 10, 2009 #

This is fantabulous!!!

Blogged at Craft Gossip Sewing Blog: http://sewing.craftgossip.com/sew-a-silk-scarf-with-this-tutorial/2009/02/10/

Francine

October 20, 2010 #

Floppy scarves are so chic all year round! Thanks for this!

Gem at Cashmere Scarf

October 21, 2010 #

Very useful tutorial! Gonna make me a silk scarf :)

kat

March 7, 2012 #

Why wouldn’t you simply cut a piece that was 36″ long and omit the french seam??? I suppose she wants the fabric oriented on the warp, for less stretch.

Sarai

March 7, 2012 #

As it says in the post, to use less yardage. The idea is that it can be made from leftover fabric.

Rachel Collinson

May 14, 2012 #

It looks beautiful! Perhaps what is left could be having a scarf clips and scarf pin brooches; these jewelleries are the perfect accessory to tie up or hold up your clothing with a glamorous look.

pidgen

September 21, 2012 #

Is there a pattern for the dress in the pic?? I love it!

JenniWilliams

February 24, 2013 #

I can’t see the scarf being as long as it looks if you only make it with 2 half-yard pieces.