How to Sew a Bonnet

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Obtain a pattern.

   These are available through most pattern companies. , Quite simple to devise on your own if you're feeling crafty or thrifty., Around the circumference that the elastic will travel (usually from the nape of the neck around and over the forehead) Over the top of the head from earlobe to earlobe. ,,,,, (easiest method is to simply wrap the (un-stretched) elastic around your head, mark it, then cut it.),,,,,,, (right sides facing), These can be as simple as ribbon, or as complex as a woven strip or a matching material.
   
   Your choice.,,,
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   Step 2: Alternative: A basic bonnet is only a large (gathered) oval with a crescent brim.

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   Step 3: Measure your head in two directions.

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   Step 4: Cut an oval of cloth 30% longer AND 30% wider than your head measurements (above)

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   Step 5: Cut two half circle whose diameter is equal to your over the head from ear to ear measurement.

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   Step 6: Roll the edges of the oval over to create a tube that is slightly larger than your elastic.

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   Step 7: Sew the tube

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   Step 8: leaving a small opening for sliding the elastic (or heavy thread) through.

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   Step 9: Cut a length of elastic the length of your circumference of your head.

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    Step 10: Slide the elastic through the tube and sew the ends to each other.

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    Step 11: Sew the two half circles to each other along their curved edges with right sides facing.

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    Step 12: Leave the straight edge open for turning and for attaching to the gathered portion of the bonnet.

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    Step 13: Iron on stiffener or interfacing to one (wrong) side of the brim.

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    Step 14: Clip the hem edges to allow for smooth turning.

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    Step 15: Turn "right" side out

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    Step 16: and top stitch to hold the curved edge in place.

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    Step 17: Pin the gathered edge of the bonnet to the straight edge of the brim.

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    Step 18: Pin ties to the bonnet where the brim meets the gathered portion on the sides.

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    Step 19: Sew the brim and ties carefully onto the gathered portion of the bonnet.

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    Step 20: Cover the raw edges with bias tape.

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    Step 21: Enjoy!

Detailed Guide

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