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Make a scarf

Make a scarf
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Make a warm, no-sew fleece scarf by measuring, cutting, and knotting fabric strips together. Learn basic measuring, cutting safety, and creativity.

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Step-by-step guide to make a warm, no-sew fleece scarf

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How to Knit a Scarf for Beginners Step By Step

What you need
Adult supervision required, fabric marker or chalk, fabric scissors, fleece fabric, measuring tape or ruler

Step 1

Measure how long you want your scarf by wrapping the measuring tape around your neck and noting the number.

Step 2

Add 6 inches to that number for the fringe and write the total down.

Step 3

Pick a scarf width you like such as 8 to 10 inches and remember that number.

Step 4

Fold the fleece so you can cut two matching rectangles at the same time and smooth out any wrinkles.

Step 5

Mark a rectangle on the folded fleece using the length total and the width you chose.

Step 6

Cut along the marked lines through both layers to make two matching scarf pieces.

Step 7

Stack the two fleece rectangles on top of each other so all edges line up.

Step 8

Cut 1-inch wide strips down 2 to 3 inches from one short edge across both layers to make fringe.

Step 9

Cut the same 1-inch wide by 2 to 3-inch deep fringe across the other short edge through both layers.

Step 10

Tie each matching pair of top and bottom fringe strips on one end into a tight double knot until the whole end is secured.

Step 11

Tie each matching pair of fringe strips on the other end into a tight double knot until that end is secured.

Step 12

Trim any uneven fringe tails so the scarf looks neat and even.

Step 13

Take a photo and share your finished warm no-sew fleece scarf on DIY.org

Final steps

You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!

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Help!?

What can we use if fleece or a measuring tape is hard to find?

If you can't find fleece, substitute tightly woven flannel or a cut-up sweatshirt layered like the instructions say, and use a ruler or a piece of string measured against a tape to note the neck length before adding 6 inches for fringe.

My two layers shifted while cutting and some fringe strips tore—how do I fix that?

Smooth and clip or pin the folded fleece and mark the rectangle with a fabric marker, cut slowly with sharp fabric scissors through both layers, and if a fringe strip tears, tie the adjacent matching strips a little closer together when you make the double knots.

How can I adapt the steps for different ages of kids?

For toddlers have an adult pre-cut the two rectangles and larger 1–2 inch fringe and help tie the double knots, while older kids can measure, cut 1-inch fringe themselves and add beads or braids when tying the knots.

What are simple ways to personalize or upgrade the finished scarf?

Before cutting try fabric paint or iron-on patches on the fleece, and after cutting thread beads onto fringe strips or trim and braid groups of the 1-inch strips before tying the double knots for a decorated look.

Watch videos on how to make a warm, no-sew fleece scarf

Here at SafeTube, we're on a mission to create a safer and more delightful internet. 😊

Crochet Scarf for Beginners (Take 13) | Easy Pattern to Crochet Scarf Using ONE Stitch!

4 Videos

Facts about fabric crafts for kids

♻️ You can upcycle an old fleece blanket into a cozy scarf in under 30 minutes—quick, fun, and eco-friendly!

✂️ Most flexible sewing tape measures are about 60 inches (150 cm) long, a handy length for measuring scarves.

🐑 Modern synthetic fleece became popular in the late 1970s; it’s warm, lightweight, and doesn’t fray—ideal for no-sew projects.

🧣 Scarves have been worn for thousands of years across many cultures for warmth, fashion, and even to show rank.

🔗 The square knot (reef knot) is super easy to learn and works well for tying soft fabric strips together.

How do I make a warm no-sew fleece scarf with my child?

Measure the desired length (about 36–48 inches for kids). Fold a 1–1.5 yard piece of fleece if you want thickness. Mark and cut fringe at both ends—strips 1–2 inches wide and 4–6 inches long. If making a longer scarf, cut two fabric strips and knot the ends together using simple overhand or square knots. Trim uneven edges, add decorations, and supervise cutting. Teach measuring, safe scissor use, and let kids choose colors for creativity.

What materials do I need to make a no-sew fleece scarf?

You’ll need fleece fabric (1–1.5 yards per scarf or two 1/2-yard pieces for color blocking), fabric scissors (adult), child-safe scissors, measuring tape or ruler, fabric marker or chalk, and optional embellishments like pom-poms, felt shapes, or fabric-safe glue. A cutting mat or cardboard underneath helps protect surfaces. If young children are cutting, pre-cut strips and provide blunt scissors to keep the activity safe and manageable.

What ages is this no-sew fleece scarf activity suitable for?

This craft suits many ages: toddlers (2–3) enjoy pre-cut fringe and simple knotting with adult help; preschoolers (4–6) can measure, help mark, and use safety scissors with close supervision; school-age kids (7–10) can measure, cut, and knot more independently; tweens and teens can design advanced patterns. Always supervise cutting and small decorations, and adapt steps to each child’s fine motor skills and attention level.

What are the benefits and safety tips for making a no-sew fleece scarf with kids?

Benefits include practicing measuring, cutting, fine motor skills, following steps, and creative decision-making; it’s also a low-cost, quick craft that builds confidence. Safety tips: use child-safe scissors for little hands, supervise adult scissors and hot-glue use, avoid small decorations for children under three, keep the workspace tidy, and check knots so the scarf won’t come apart. Teach scissor safety and store tools out of reach after crafting.
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