Can you believe it’s almost Christmas?!? It’s getting tougher to show the projects I’m working on because most of them are gifts. The first Christmas dinner for me is coming up next weekend, so it’s crunch time. I decided to share a quick tutorial for making a double sided twisted cowl – easier to make than it is to say! This is something that can be whipped up at the last minute, but won’t look like it was. Let’s get started!
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Supplies
I have a slight obsession with scarves, cowls, shawls, etc. Really it’s just fabric to wrap around your neck, so I think that’s why! Here’s what you’ll need for this project:
- 1/2 yard each, two different fabrics
- thread to match
I used a flannel and a knit for my fabrics because I like to mix textures and prints. Using the same type of fabric (i.e. both knits) will work for this as well. The knit I’m using came from Girl Charlee in one of their Knit Fix Bags. They always have the cutest knits and they’re affordable!
Making the Cowl
Lay out the fabrics, right sides together. I’m using the width of the flannel as my length, since the knit is a little wider. I clipped the fabrics together at one of the shorter ends. Sew down the two long ends, being sure to go in the same direction for each side. I did this because the knit will stretch when you sew it and the flannel will not. I planned on using my serger to this, but it was not cooperating!
You can see how much the knit stretched in this picture. Now trim off the excess knit and turn it right side out.
Sew together one end with a zig zag stitch. Fold under the other end about 1/2″ to 3/4″ and press with the iron.
Lay the cowl out flat and twist one end so the reverse fabric is showing.
This next part can be a little tricky, but using the end of an ironing board makes it easier. You should see a different fabric on each end if your twist is correct.
Take the sewn end and tuck it inside the folded end making sure it’s far enough in to be secured when sewn.
This is one thing that definitely needs to be pinned to keep everything together when sewing.
Stitch close to the edge, back stitching at each end. I recommend sewing with the knit fabric facing up! I didn’t and I had to go over it again because it didn’t catch all of it. Knit fabric can be a little squirrely sometimes!
Now you’re all done!
Other Options
The example in today’s tutorial is not a close fitting or wrappable cowl. If you want a one that wraps, you will have to buy more yardage and cut along the length rather than the width, like the one below. This one was made with chiffon and suit fabric left over from another project.
I made these two with a knit and chiffon. One was not quite 1/2 a yard, so it’s not as full.
As you can see, the possibilities are really endless! The remnant bin at the fabric store is a great place to find lots of fun fabrics to try out. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures and prints. Just go for it!
Hope y’all have a great weekend!
