Free pattern: headscarf

Are you…

doing chemo?

renovating?

having a bad hair day?

required to cover your hair at work?

a lover of 1970’s gear?

Then you might enjoy this headscarf pattern which I made after seeing a 1970’s one.  It’s a scarf with the addition of a circle at the back to keep your hair in.  I’ve been testing out the prototype while I renovate the hallway.  It’s not as hot to wear as a hat and very good at keeping your hair protected.

 

Free pattern Headscarf first sample

Here’s my prototype. I made a few changes but this one is ok to wear.

 

Free pattern Headscarf 1970s vibe

Here’s the 1970’s vibe I was after. Can you tell?

 

Free pattern Headscarf draft

The seam and hem allowances are all 1cm (it’s written on the crown pattern).

 

The crown pattern (single A4 page) can be downloaded here: Free pattern Headscarf crown pattern

Here’s a step-by-step:

 

Free pattern Headscarf Step 1 pattern

Pattern Step 1: This pattern suits an “average” 56cm head with short-ish hair. For big heads, big hair, or long hair that you want to tuck in, add at least 2.5cm in width to the scarf part (ie 18cm + 2.5cm). It’s better to make it wider to start with then make it narrower if need be when it’s finished.

 

Free pattern Headscarf Step 2 pattern

Pattern Step 2: Yes, I know, it’s hardly zero waste, is it? However, cutting out two or more together drastically decreases the average amount of fabric required.

Free pattern Headscarf Step 2 pattern photo

Here’s mine during cutting out.

 

 

Free pattern Headscarf Step 1 sewing

Sewing Step 1: This hem will sit at the back of your neck when the headscarf is worn.

 

Free pattern Headscarf Step 2 sewing

Sew two rows of gathering stitches between the hem and the notch (one row on the 1cm seam allowance, the other between this row and the raw edge). Pull up the gathers to measure 6.5cm.

 

Free pattern Headscarf Step 3 sewing

Sew with a 1cm seam allowance, then press the seam towards the scarf (the pressing makes Step 4 easier).

 

Free pattern Headscarf Step 4 sewing

You’ll be sewing this from the wrong side, including topstitching the crown seam (which is why it’s important to press in the previous step).

Free pattern Headscarf Step 4 sewing photo

A photo of the hem snipping taking place.

 

Free pattern Headscarf flat view

Laid flat the headscarf looks a bit like a bonnet.

 

Free pattern Headscarf back view

With hair and ties tucked in, the back is very neat.

 

Free pattern Headscarf front view

 

Cheers!

 

5 Comments

  1. Amy on April 4, 2021 at 5:06 am

    Hello I am so happy that I found your patterns and website. I am trying to find where the headscarf pattern is for download? Please help. Also put me on any mailing lists you have
    Thank you
    A

  2. Dee on January 15, 2024 at 12:07 pm

    Thank you for this pattern! I am sewing a head scarf for a family member who is going through chemo and I greatly appreciate you taking the time to share this!

    • lizhaywood on January 16, 2024 at 1:01 pm

      Cheers, Dee 🙂 it’s very thoughtful of you to sew headscarves, and best wishes for your family member’s treatment.

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