How to make your own cozy, flannel winter wrap
The not-so-secret secret to winter warmth? Layers, layers layers. And then maybe a few more layers for good measure. Luckily, “layers” doesn’t have to translate to “bulk”—just look at the recent resurgence of classic cold weather pieces like ponchos and wraps.
This week’s DIY walks you through sewing a super warm wrap of your very own. Think of it like an extra-large scarf, held in place with a button for a more polished look. A classic flannel plaid fabric gives the wrap a timeless preppy style, but this would look adorable with some cheerful polka dots or chic chevrons as well.
Materials:
- Soft apparel fabric, such as cotton or flannel
- Paper to make a template
- Thread in a corresponding color to the fabric
- Large button in a corresponding color to the fabric
- Scissors
- Straight pins
- Basic sewing needle
- Measuring tape
- Scotch tape
- Fabric marker or ballpoint pen
- Sewing machine
- Iron and ironing board
Craft away:
- Measure, trim, and tape the paper into a long rectangle, 53-inches long by 17-inches wide. You can try the template on to make sure it fits by wrapping it around your shoulders. Adjust the template to your preference by attaching additional pieces of paper with the tape.
- Trace the template onto the back of the fabric using a fabric marker or a ballpoint pen, and cut out the shape.
- Fold all four edges of the fabric in 1/2-inch, towards the back of the fabric. Iron and pin the folds to set them in place.
- Use a sewing machine and the thread to stitch the folds in place.
- Wrap the fabric around you, right side over left side. Mark where you want to fasten it with a pin on the left side of the fabric, close to the top edge and corner. Remove the fabric.
- Cut a couple of feet of thread and fold it in half, then thread the needle and tie a knot.
- Measure the button’s diameter, and note it. Sew the button in the spot you marked with the pin.
- Try the wrap back on again, and use a pin to mark where the buttonhole needs to be placed.
- Carefully snip a small cut that’s the same length as the button’s diameter.
- Stitch around the edges of the cut with the needle and thread to make a buttonhole. If you prefer, you can complete this step on a sewing machine.
- Bundle the wrap around you, button it in place and face the winter in toasty style!
