This gathered fabric headband uses a cotton casing with elastic running through it. Measure for the wearer instead of relying on a single adult size, and check the fit before closing the fabric.
Materials and measurements
- Cotton fabric for a strip 3 inches (7.5 cm) wide
- ¼-inch (6 mm) elastic long enough to fit comfortably around the wearer’s head
- Thread, scissors, measuring tape, pins and a safety pin or turning tool
- A sewing machine or a needle for hand sewing
Measure around the head where the band will sit. For a softly gathered band, cut the fabric strip about one and a half times that measurement, plus 1 inch for joining. This is a starting point for the fabric fullness; the elastic fit must be checked separately.
1. Make the fabric tube
Fold the strip lengthways with right sides together. Sew the long edge with a ¼-inch seam allowance, leaving both short ends open. Turn the tube right side out and press it flat using a setting suitable for your fabric.
2. Check the elastic fit
Wrap the elastic around the headband position with a little stretch. It should feel comfortable rather than tight. Mark the length that fits, then allow another 1 inch for overlapping the ends. Elastic varies, so do not use a fixed length without trying it.
3. Thread the casing
Attach a safety pin to one elastic end and feed it through the fabric tube. Pin the other end to the outside of the fabric so it cannot disappear inside. Gather the fabric as you thread, leaving both elastic ends accessible.
4. Join the elastic
Overlap the elastic ends by 1 inch and pin them temporarily. Try the band on carefully and adjust it if needed. Remove it before sewing. Stitch across the overlap several times with a suitable zigzag or secure hand stitches, then test that the join holds.
5. Close the fabric
Slide the elastic join into the casing. Turn the raw edge at each fabric end ½ inch to the inside. Bring the folded ends together and hand sew them with small stitches around the tube, keeping the elastic free. Spread the gathers evenly.
Before wearing
Check for exposed pins, loose stitches and an uncomfortable fit. This guide is for a wearable accessory, not a baby or child’s toy. If the band is uncomfortable, remake the elastic join rather than relying on it stretching out.
Practise another technique with our floral embroidery bookmark, or sew a small drawstring bag. Browse the project collection for more ideas.