Introduction: Making a Cravat
Want a custom look for your groom and groomsmen for your wedding? Need the right accessory for that steampunk outfit? Make a cravat!
Step 1: Materials
You will need from your fabric store:
1 yard fabric
scrap of interfacing
matching thread
You will need from your sewing box:
Sewing machine (or needle and lots of patience)
iron and ironing board
pins
scissors or shears
Step 2: Buy or Make a Pattern
I used Butterick B4157 for the cutting pattern, but changed the assembly for a more formal, less costumey result.
The long "tie end" is 34" x 12". The short "tie end" is 27" x 12". The "collar" is 13 1/2" by 3", with a gentle curve.
For a Jabot (like a giant, floppy bow tie) make two long ends. For a Cravat (tied with a Four-In-Hand knot,) make a long end and a short end.
Step 3: Layout Your Fabric and Cut Your Pieces
Cut two tie ends, and two collars out of fabric. Cut one collar out of interfacing.
If you're lucky enough to have a padded cutting table, pin the pattern to the fabric to the table, and PUSH the scissors flat against the table while you cut.
Step 4: Tie End
Fold tie end longways, right-side-together.
Pin the long edge and the slanty edge together.
Step 5: Sew Tie End
Stitch a 1/4" seam along your pins. Be sure to leave the short, straight end open.
Clip your corners.
Turn inside out.
Press (iron flat.)
Repeat with other tie end.
Step 6: Collar
Layer fabric right-side-to-right-side and put interfacing on top.
Pin together along long sides.
Stitch with 1/4" seam allowance.
Step 7: Finish Collar
Turn collar inside out.
Press.
Turn 1/2" of open end to the INSIDE to hide rough edge.
Press flat.
Step 8: Gather Tie Ends
Put a pin in each side of the open end of the tie end. Wrap thread around one pin in a figure 8 pattern.
Pull the other end of the thread until the open end is the same size as the collar opening. Wrap the thread around the other pin in a figure 8 pattern.
Press.
Stitch 1/4" from the edge.
Step 9: Final Assembly
Remove pins.
Insert tie end into open end of collar. Pin in place.
Stitch close to edge.
Step 10: Tie One On!
For a jabot, make a loose, floppy bow.
For a cravat, tie in a four-in-hand knot like a regular necktie.
Tuck under collar, and wear proudly!
Now make some vests to match!
https://www.instructables.com/id/Sewing-a-mens-formal-vest/
Finalist in the
DIY Wedding Contest