How to turn a scarf into a summer cover up

How to turn a scarf into a summer cover up

Learn how to make a summer kimono-style gown with this free sewing pattern for you to make and wear all summer long.

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Published: April 15, 2021 at 8:48 am

Make a lightweight summer staple to update any outfit – whether you’re wearing this on the beach, over jeans, or with a simple tee, it will liven up any outfit. And you can make them from easy-to-source scarves in mere minutes with this simple tutorial from Lana Red.

About Lana Red: Lana never leaves her house without red lipstick and almost always wears dresses or skirts. And although she loves to bake, she’s the worst chef in the world. She travels a lot, but when at home, she spends all of her days cuddling her two cats.

Free scarf to cover-up sewing pattern

You will need:

  • Large scarf
  • Sewing machine (or needle and thread)
  • Scissors
  • Pins
  • Tape measure

Step 1

Free kimono sewing pattern step 1

Pick out your chosen scarf. Obviously this will come down to your own taste, but make sure it’s large enough to wrap all around your body. A super large scarf will give a flowy, oversized look. We used a rectangular scarf, but a square-shaped one will also work.

Step 2

Free kimono sewing pattern step 2

Fold your scarf in half, right sides (RS) together, width-ways.

Step 3

Free kimono sewing pattern step 3

Place your measuring tape at the top of the scarf on the horizontal fold. Mark the middle using a pin or some fabric chalk. Next, place your measuring tape at the horizontal bottom and mark the middle again. Now, draw a line between both marked points to create a vertical line. This will be the opening and front.

Step 4

Free kimono sewing pattern step 4

Cut along the marked folded line from the bottom to the folded part, making sure you only cut the top fabric layer. This is your opening.

Step 5

Free kimono sewing pattern step 5

Create a simple neckline by cutting out a small oval shape with your scissors. You can use some fabric chalk or a few pins to decide the exact shape before you start cutting out.

Step 6

Free kimono sewing pattern step 6

Fold the edges of the front opening and neckline to the inside and, using your sewing machine or a needle and thread, hem the front opening and neckline.

 

Step 7

Free kimono sewing pattern step 7

Place the kimono on a flat surface with the opening on the top. Place your measuring tape along one vertical side and pin the sides together, keeping the first 40cm-60cm open for the arms. Repeat on the other side.

Step 8

Free kimono sewing pattern step 8

Use your sewing machine or needle and thread to sew both sides together. We sewed our kimono right sides (RS) out to make sure the fringe would be visible once finished. If your scarf doesn’t have fringes, you’ll find it easier to sew RS together.

About Lana Red

Lana never leaves her house without red lipstick and almost always wears dresses or skirts. And although she loves to bake, she’s the worst chef in the world. She travels a lot, but when at home, she spends all of her days cuddling her two cats.