Bandanas are a fashionable and versatile accessory. You can tie a bandana around your head to hold your hair in place, show support for something, or just use it to show your own unique style. In an emergency, you can use a bandana as a handkerchief, dust mask, to wipe sweat off your face, protect yourself from the sun, or bandage a wound. There's even better news: you can make your own bandana using almost any type of fabric. It doesn't take long to make a bandana. In no time, you can have your own unique bandana
Step
Part 1 of 3: Making a Bandana
Step 1. Take a large piece of cloth
The fabric size must be at least 60x60 cm or larger. You are free to choose the type of fabric you want to use. Cotton muslin fabric can be an affordable option and has a long shelf life. Choose a fabric that won't irritate the skin.
- If you're using a patterned fabric, choose a pattern that would look great for a bandana, such as paisley, plaid, skull with crossbones, and so on.
- In some parts of the world, wearing a bandana of a certain color can be associated with local gangs. For example, gangs in Los Angeles, United States display their identity with blue and red bandanas. Using a bandana that identifies a certain gang can be dangerous for you. So, think carefully when choosing the color and motif of the bandana.
Step 2. Draw a square pattern on the fabric
You can use objects with straight edges, such as a regular ruler or tape measure, or follow straight lines in the pattern. Each side of the fabric should be about 60 cm, but you can make it larger or smaller according to your taste.
- The easiest way is to start at one of the corners at the end of the fabric. That way, you can make the most of the fabric.
- Making lines with an ink pen/marker will be more visible than a pencil. Clear lines will make it easier for you to cut the fabric in a straight line.
- Sewing chalk can also be a good choice for creating a grid pattern on fabric. When washing bandanas, the traces of sewing chalk left behind will also be washed off.
- You don't need to draw a perfect pattern, but straight lines will result in a bandana that looks organized and neat.
- Better to make a bigger bandana than too small. If something goes wrong, it will be easier to cut the fabric than additional sewing.
Step 3. Cut the pattern that has been made
If you're choosing a fabric whose main component is cotton, the easiest way to do this is to make an initial cut with sharp scissors or scissors specifically for fabric. Since cotton fabrics tear easily, you can tear the fabric following the lines you have drawn.
- If you don't know the composition of the fabric you've chosen and to avoid wasting fabric, you can use scissors to cut out the entire pattern.
- Even if you're using 100% cotton, sometimes the rips won't be completely straight. If you only have a limited amount of fabric, it's safer to use scissors to cut the fabric.
Step 4. Try wearing a bandana
At this point, you can try wearing a bandana to see if it fits. If it's too big, you can cut it off. However, keep in mind that you will lose about 1.5-5 cm of fabric for the seam.
Hemming the edges of the bandana will protect the thread from unraveling. The unstitched edges of the fabric can unravel easily
Part 2 of 3: Hemming the Bandana
Step 1. Determine the width of the seam
A wider seam will be easier to work with, but will result in a wide double fold along the edge of the fabric. For bandanas, try to start with a medium hem, which is usually about 5 cm. This width of fabric will be folded under the fabric and sewn to prevent the thread from unraveling.
Actually, you are free to choose the width of the seam you want. You may prefer a thicker seam on the longer edge or a shorter seam on the narrower edge
Step 2. Fold and press the fabric at the edges to make a hem
Make sure that the fabric is smooth and straight when sewing so that the hem doesn't slant. If necessary, iron the folds of the fabric first. For a medium seam, fold about 1.5 cm of fabric down and press down with an iron. Then fold again about 3.5 cm in the same way and press again with an iron.
- For a larger seam, first fold the edge of the fabric 2 cm wide downward. Continue with the second fold 3.5 cm wide downward and press again with the iron.
- Small seams are made by folding the edge of the fabric about 0.5 cm downward and pressing it with an iron. Then, make a second fold 0.5 cm wide and press it again with the iron.
Step 3. Pinch the folds so they don't come off
Make sure the double folds on the edges of the fabric look straight and neat. If the fabric looks crooked, straighten it and press it back with the iron. Once the folds look straight and parallel, pinch the fabric so it doesn't come loose during sewing.
You can use a straight-edge object, such as a ruler or tape measure, to check that the creases are perfectly straight
Step 4. Sew the seams
The easiest way to do this is to use a sewing machine. If this is not possible, use a sewing needle and thread. Thread the thread through the needle and thread the needle through all the folded layers of fabric from the bottom so that the knots will be hidden. Then, thread the thread up and down through the front and back of the fabric along the crease at regular intervals.
- When threading the needle, double the thread so the stitches will be stronger and last longer.
- If you want a very professional looking stitch, try using a method called slip stitch. A stitch like this won't be visible once it's done, but you'll need some practice before you get it right.
- You may need to look for more information on how to make a seam so you can do it neatly.
- If you are unsure about working with needle and thread, you can use an iron and adhesive tape. You can buy this product at most craft and sewing stores, or at major retail stores such as Carrefour and Lotte Mart.
Step 5. Show off your homemade bandana
You can wear the new bandana in a number of ways. Experiment to see which one suits your style best. Two popular styles worth considering are:
- Tie the bandana around the neck so that it hangs in an inverted triangle shape from the base of the neck.
- Fold the bandana lengthwise several times. Then, wrap the bandana around your head and tie it at the back to wear it like a headband.
Part 3 of 3: Decorating Bandanas
Step 1. Choose the most suitable place for decoration
The best location for attaching the embellishments will vary, depending on how you wear the bandana. For example, if you wear a bandana around your neck in a triangular shape, trim the corners with the bottom edge of the decoration facing the corner of the fabric.
To help you see how you look with a bandana, try looking in the mirror. Then, use a pencil or sewing chalk to mark the best locations for decorations
Step 2. Iron or sew the application embellishments
App embellishments are a great way to express your support for your favorite music group, game, sports team, and so on. Some of these embellishments are heat-activated and can be ironed on, while others must be sewn in order to stick.
- You can get appliques at your local fabric store, but if you need a custom design, an online retail store may be a better choice.
- Sometimes some types of fabrics or fabric mixes won't allow you to iron them. Make sure you check the information on the fabric before attempting to attach the application trim with an iron.
Step 3. Use waterproof fabric paint to create the design
You can create unique and meaningful designs using fabric paint. In some cases, you may need some equipment for painting, such as a brush and water, but some fabric paints are sold as markers.
- Many general retail stores, retail arts stores and craft stores offer a wide selection of paints. Make sure you choose a product that is water resistant so it doesn't come off in the wash!
- You can also use a stencil to paint the fabric so that the resulting design looks more professional.
Step 4. Draw the design with a waterproof fabric marker
Fabric markers may be a little more familiar and easier to use than paint, especially if you don't have much experience with painting. For the best finish, you may want to draw your design first using a washable fabric marker, then a waterproof marker.
You can also sketch the design with a pencil before using a more permanent substrate, depending on the type of fabric
Step 5. If necessary, wait until the design is completely dry
For best results, you should always follow the instructions on the product used to decorate the bandana. Textile paints and fabric markers may take a certain amount of time to dry before you can wash them or have special washing instructions.
