Scrunchies have made a huge comeback, and it’s easy to see why; they are stylish, comfortable, and much gentler on your hair than traditional elastic bands. Instead of spending money on store-bought scrunchies, why not make your own at home?
Sewing your own scrunchies is not only budget-friendly but also allows you to customize them with your favorite fabrics, colors, and patterns. Whether you are new to sewing or an experienced DIY crafter, this project is quick, easy, and fun.
In this guide, I will walk you through everything you need to know about making scrunchies from scratch. We will cover the materials you will need, a step-by-step tutorial for both sewing machine and hand-sewing methods, plus some helpful tips to make your scrunchies look professional.
Materials You will Need
Okay, so before we jump into actually sewing a scrunchie, let’s gather everything we need. It’s always better to be prepared, right? I hate having to stop mid-project to hunt down a missing item. Here is what I usually grab:
- Fabric: Of course! I like using cotton, satin, or even velvet scraps. A piece about 18×4 inches is usually plenty. I have been thinking about using some polyester satin I have lying around.
- Thread: Make sure it matches your fabric. Nothing worse than a contrasting thread ruining the look.
- Scissors: A good, sharp pair is a must. Dull scissors are the enemy of clean cuts.
- Sewing Machine: Unless you are going the hand-sewing route, which we will cover later. Make sure it’s threaded and ready to go.
- Needle: For your sewing machine. Make sure it’s the right type for your fabric.
- Pins: Straight pins to hold the fabric in place while you sew. I prefer the ones with the ball heads.
- Iron and Ironing Board: Ironing your fabric before you start makes a huge difference in the final product.
- Elastic: About 8 inches of 1/4-inch wide elastic. You can adjust this depending on how tight you want the scrunchie.
- Safety Pin: This is for threading the elastic through the fabric tube. A lifesaver, trust me.
- Seam Ripper: Just in case you make any mistakes. We all do it.
That is pretty much it. With these supplies, you will be well on your way to creating your own custom scrunchies. I find that having everything laid out and ready to go makes the whole process much smoother and more enjoyable.
Step-by-Step Sewing Instructions to Sew Crunchie
Step 1: Cut Your Fabric
Alright, first things first, I need to cut my fabric. I usually go for a rectangle that is about 18 inches long and 4 inches wide. But honestly, it really depends on how fluffy I want my scrunchie to be.
If I am feeling extra, I might even go wider. Just make sure I have enough fabric types to work with.
Step 2: Prepare the Fabric Tube
Okay, so now I fold the fabric in half lengthwise, with the right sides facing each other. Then, I sew along that long edge, using about a 1/4-inch seam allowance. But here is the thing:
I always make sure to leave a small gap, maybe an inch or two, somewhere in the middle of the seam. This gap is super important because it’s how I’m going to turn the whole thing right side out later.
Step 3: Turn the Fabric Right Side Out
This is where that little gap I left comes in handy. I stick my finger in there and start gently coaxing the fabric through the opening, turning it inside out as I go. It can be a bit fiddly, but eventually, I get the whole tube turned right side out.
Then, I use a point turner (or, let’s be real, sometimes just a chopstick) to poke out the corners and make sure everything is nice and smooth.
Step 4: Join the Ends of the Fabric Tube
Now, I take the two short ends of the fabric tube and tuck one end inside the other, maybe about 1/2 inch. This creates a nice, clean edge when I sew them together.
I pin the edges together all the way around, making sure they are lined up evenly. Then, I carefully sew around the entire circle, joining the two ends and creating a continuous loop of fabric.
Step 5: Insert the Elastic
Time for the elastic! I grab a piece of elastic, usually around 8 inches long, and attach a safety pin to one end.
Then, I use the safety pin to guide the elastic through the fabric tube, working it all the way around until it comes out the other side. It’s kind of like threading a needle, but on a much larger scale.
Step 6: Join the Elastic Ends
Once the elastic is all the way through, I carefully remove the safety pin and overlap the two ends of the elastic by about an inch.
I hold them together tightly and then sew them together using a zigzag stitch. I usually go back and forth a few times to make sure it’s really secure. I don’t want that elastic snapping on me later!
Step 7: Close the Opening
Finally, I need to close up that little gap I left when I sewed the fabric tube together. I fold the edges of the gap inward, so they’re flush with the rest of the seam. Then, I pin them in place and either machine stitch or hand stitch the opening closed.
If I am feeling lazy, I will just do a quick topstitch with the sewing machine. But if I want it to look really neat, I will use an invisible stitch to close it up by hand.
Why Sew Your Own Scrunchie?
Okay, so you might be thinking, “Why bother sewing a scrunchie when I can just buy one?” And that’s a fair question! But let me tell you, there are actually a bunch of really good reasons why I think making your own is the way to go.
1. Save Money by Sewing Your Own Scrunchies
Buying scrunchies from stores can get expensive. By using leftover fabric scraps, you can make several scrunchies for the cost of one.
2. Customize Every Detail to Match Your Style
You get full control over the fabric, colors, and patterns. Whether you want silk for gentle wear or sparkly ones for parties, the options are endless.
3. A Beginner-Friendly and Fun Sewing Project
Scrunchies are simple to make and perfect for practicing sewing skills. It’s a satisfying way to create something useful and stylish.
4. An Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Option
Using recycled or upcycled fabrics helps reduce waste. Making your own scrunchies supports a more sustainable and mindful lifestyle.
So, yeah, there are plenty of reasons to sew your own scrunchie. It’s economical, customizable, satisfying, and sustainable. What’s not to love?
How to Sew a Scrunchie by Hand (No Sewing Machine Needed)
Okay, so you don’t have a sewing machine? No problem! You can totally make a scrunchie by hand. It might take a little longer, but it’s a great way to practice your hand-sewing skills and it’s super satisfying. Plus, it’s perfect for using up those fabric scraps you’ve been hoarding. Let’s get started!
Cut Your Fabric
Just like with the machine method, you’ll need to cut your fabric. I usually go for a rectangle about 18 inches long and 4 inches wide.
But honestly, you can play around with the dimensions to get a scrunchie that’s the size you want. The longer the rectangle, the rufflier the scrunchie.
Prepare the Fabric Tube
Fold your fabric rectangle in half, lengthwise, with the right sides together. Now, using a needle and thread, sew along the long edge to create a tube.
Make sure to leave about a 1-2 inch gap in the middle of the seam. This is how you’ll turn it right side out later.
Turn the Fabric Right Side Out
This can be a little tricky, but be patient. Use your fingers (or a blunt tool like a chopstick) to gently push the fabric through the gap you left in the seam.
Keep going until the whole tube is right side out. Now, carefully fold in the edges of the gap and press with your fingers.
Join the Ends of the Fabric Tube
Now, tuck one end of the fabric tube inside the other, creating a loop. Make sure the right sides of the fabric are facing each other.
Then, carefully stitch the two ends together, closing the loop. This can be a bit fiddly, so take your time and make sure the seam is secure.
Insert the Elastic
Grab your elastic (about 8 inches should do the trick). Attach a safety pin to one end of the elastic and use it to thread the elastic through the fabric tube. Work the safety pin through the casing until it comes out the other end.
Join the Elastic Ends
Once the elastic is all the way through, remove the safety pin. Overlap the ends of the elastic by about an inch and sew them together securely.
I like to use a zigzag stitch for this, but a simple backstitch will also work. Just make sure it’s strong!
Close the Opening
Finally, it’s time to close up that little gap you left in the fabric tube. Fold in the edges of the gap and carefully stitch it closed.
You can use a blind stitch for an invisible finish, or just a simple running stitch. And there you have it, a handmade scrunchie!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is making a scrunchie a good project for someone new to sewing?
Absolutely! Scrunchies are a fantastic project for beginners. They don’t need much fabric, and the steps are pretty simple. It’s a great way to learn basic sewing skills.
What kind of fabric works best for a scrunchie?
You can use all sorts of fabrics! Cotton is a popular choice because it’s easy to work with. But you can also try satin or velvet for a fancier look, or even old t-shirt material for something super comfy. Just pick something you like!
How much fabric and elastic do I need for one scrunchie?
A standard scrunchie usually needs a piece of fabric about 18 inches long and 4 inches wide. For the elastic, about 8 inches is usually good, but you can make it a bit longer if your hair is really thick.
Can I sew a scrunchie without a sewing machine?
Yes, you totally can! While a sewing machine makes it quicker, you can easily sew a scrunchie by hand. It just takes a little more time and patience, but the result is just as good.
How long does it take to make a scrunchie?
Most scrunchies take about 10-15 minutes to make, especially once you get the hang of it. If you’re sewing by hand, it might take a little longer, maybe 20-30 minutes.
Why does my scrunchie look lumpy after I’m done?
If your scrunchie looks a bit lumpy, it might be because the fabric isn’t spread evenly around the elastic. Try to gently push and pull the fabric so it’s gathered smoothly. Also, make sure your elastic isn’t twisted inside.
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