DIY Stretchy Headbands: The Fastest & Easiest Sewing Method

Updated at: 17/05/2025

Headbands are a fantastic accessory, offering both practicality and style. Whether you're aiming for a polished look or simply want to keep your hair out of your face during a busy day, a stretchy headband is a versatile solution. But buying them can be expensive, and finding the perfect fit and style can be a frustrating search. Why not create your own? This guide introduces the absolute fastest and easiest method for sewing your own perfectly fitted, stylish headbands, requiring minimal sewing skills and even less time. You'll be amazed at how quickly you can transform scraps of fabric into a wardrobe staple.

Forget complicated patterns and fiddly techniques; this method utilizes a simple, straight stitch to create a comfortable and stretchy headband in minutes. We'll walk you through each step with clear instructions and helpful images, making this project accessible to even the most novice sewers. Ready to get started? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Fabric
  • Sewing machine (serger recommended but not required)
  • Scissors
  • Pins (optional)
  • Iron (optional)
  • Fabric spray starch (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use sharp, appropriate sewing needles and pins to avoid injury. Handle them with care and keep them out of reach of children.
  • Ensure your fabric is pre-washed to prevent shrinkage after the headband is made. This will affect the fit.
  • Be mindful of the elastic's stretchiness. Overstretching it during sewing can weaken it and shorten the headband's lifespan.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Fabric

    • Cut out fabric using a template. Fold fabric in half with stretch going side to side, place template on fold and cut.
    Cut out fabric using a template. Fold fabric in half with stretch going side to side, place template on fold and cut.
    Prepare Fabric

  2. Sew Side Seam

    • Sew the short edges together. Sew from about 1 inch from one end to about 2 inches from the other end. Use a serger for best results, or a long wide zigzag stitch (length 3, width 3.5). Sew with a ¼ inch seam allowance.
    • Trim excess fabric from the seam to reduce bulk. Trim approximately ⅛ inch.
    Trim excess fabric from the seam to reduce bulk. Trim approximately ⅛ inch.Trim excess fabric from the seam to reduce bulk. Trim approximately ⅛ inch.
    Sew Side Seam

  3. Turn and Shape

    • Turn the fabric tube right side out.
    Turn the fabric tube right side out.
    Turn and Shape

  4. Sew End Seam

    • Sew the long edges together using a straight stitch with a ¼ inch seam allowance. Increase stitch length to 3.
    Sew the long edges together using a straight stitch with a ¼ inch seam allowance. Increase stitch length to 3.
    Sew End Seam

  5. Close Opening

    • Close the small remaining opening. Tuck the raw edges under and sew closed with a straight stitch. This step can be done by machine or hand.
    Close the small remaining opening. Tuck the raw edges under and sew closed with a straight stitch. This step can be done by machine or hand.
    Close Opening

  6. Finish

    • Trim threads, and optionally add fabric spray starch and press with an iron.
    Trim threads, and optionally add fabric spray starch and press with an iron.
    Finish

Read more: DIY Stretchy Fingerless Gloves: Easy Sewing Tutorial

Tips

  • Using a serger provides the best stretch for the headband.
  • If you don't have a serger, use a long, wide zigzag stitch. Experiment with stitch length to find what works best with your fabric.
  • When using a straight stitch on knit fabric, increase the stitch length (to 3).
  • To minimize bulk, trim seam allowances slightly after sewing the short ends together.
  • Move the presser foot over to the edge of the fabric to easily sew the final seam.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Fabric Stretching

Reason: Pulling the fabric too tightly or inconsistently during sewing can lead to a headband that's twisted or unevenly stretched.
Solution: Ensure consistent tension on the fabric throughout the sewing process, using your fingers to gently stretch it evenly.

2. Headband Too Tight or Too Loose

Reason: Cutting the fabric to the wrong length or using an inappropriate elastic size results in a headband that's either too constricting or too loose.
Solution: Measure your head circumference accurately and adjust the fabric and elastic length accordingly, adding or subtracting length as needed before sewing.

FAQs

What type of fabric is best for stretchy headbands?
Knit fabrics like jersey, rib knit, or cotton lycra work best. These fabrics have inherent stretch and will provide a comfortable fit. Avoid stiff fabrics like cotton or linen, as they won't stretch enough.