Materials Required
A sewing machine, two colors of fabric of your choice, 1/4” wide elastic or lace, scissors, pins, tape measure, fabric marker or pencil, featherweight thread and a safety pin.
Cutting the Fabric
The fabric for the scrunchie needs to measure approximately 18” x 6”, so cut two fabric rectangles with these dimensions. It is important to give the fabric a crisp, clean cut before putting it together.
Pin and Sew the Fabrics Together
The two fabric pieces should be put together with their right sides facing each other, and pinned together on 3 sides, leaving one side open. When ready, it is time to sew the pieces together. A 1/4” seam allowance should be left and it is recommended to sew a few times at the beginning and the end of the seam to prevent it from unraveling.
Feed the Elastic Through the Seam
Take the safety pin, attach it to the end of the elastic, and feed it through one side of the seam line created in the previous step. Make sure that the elastic follows the same direction as the seam and keep feeding it through until it reaches the other side. When it reaches the end, pull it slightly and as it tucks into the seam, pin it in place.
Maneuver the Elastic Around the Seam
Now it is time to turn the scrunchie inside out and make sure the elastic is pulled away from the sides. When inside out, you will notice that the elastic is slightly bunched up, due to the fabric. The elastic should be manipulated around the sides to make it evenly distributed. It is important to make sure that the sides of the elastic lie flat against the fabric, as this will ensure that the scrunchie looks even and professional.
Secure the Elastic With Stitches
In this step, you should make sure that the elastic is secure by folding the seam allowance over the elastic and securing it with a few stitches. When stitching around the elastic, it is important to make sure that you do it gently and not to pull the elastic too tight, as this can cause it to stretch, which will alter the shape of the scrunchie.
Finish The Scrunchie
Once the elastic is secure, turn the scrunchie right side out, and pin the seam allowance of the last side closed. Stitch the seam allowance together, making sure to leave a 1/4” allowance, as this will make the scrunchie look more professional. Next, cut off any excess fabric, and give the scrunchie a good press to flatten out any creases or overlapping fabric.
Tips for Making A Perfect Scrunchie
1. Use a featherweight thread for stitching, as this will make the scrunchie stronger and more durable.
2. To get even edges, press the fabric before sewing the scrunchie together.
3. Measure the elastic before feeding it through the fabric, as this will ensure that the scrunchie has the right amount of elastic.
4. Be gentle when stitching around the elastic, as this will prevent it from stretching out of shape.
5. Always use sharp, and preferably sharp point scissors when cutting the fabric for the scrunchie.
Variations on the Scrunchie
1. First, try using different fabrics, such as lace or silk, to give the scrunchie a different look.
2. To add more texture and interest to the scrunchie, add some beading or sequins.
3. To make the scrunchie more decorative, add ribbons or appliqués.
4. Different colors of fabric can be used to give the scrunchie a unique look.
5. The elastic can be replaced with ribbon, cord or thin elastic for a different look.
Difficulty Levels of Making a Scrunchie
1. Making a scrunchie with a sewing machine is suitable for beginners, as the process is simple and straightforward.
2. Advanced sewers can try their hand at making a scrunchie with a serger for a professional finish.
3. For a unique scrunchie, one can try combining hand-sewing with machine-sewing.
4. The experienced sewer can create an intricate scrunchie with gathering and stitches of all kinds.
5. Adding trimmings and embellishments to the scrunchie is best for the experienced sewer.
Accessories for The Scrunchie
1. Make a tassel and attach it to the scrunchie for a different look.
2. Embellish the scrunchie with flower charms or charms of your choice.
3. Hair bands and headbands can be added to the scrunchie to create a fun look.
4. Pair the scrunchie with a fancy bow to make it look more stylish.
5. Add rhinestones to the scrunchie to give it a more glamorous look.
Maintenance of a Scrunchie
1. It is important to give the scrunchie the proper care, as the fabrics used for the construction of the scrunchie may shrink if not handled properly.
2. To prevent the fabric from fraying, it is important to hand or machine-wash the scrunchie in cold water.
3. It is also important to make sure that you do not twist or rub the scrunchie too much when washing it, as this may distort its shape.
4. The scrunchie should be air-dried instead of being put in the dryer to prevent further distortion of the shape.
5. If the elastic inside the scrunchie stretches out of shape, it can be gently pulled back into shape.
