Introduction: Green Scarf for Abortion Rights / Pañuelo Verde Por El Derecho Al Aborto
The green scarf as a sign for bodily autonomy and reproductive rights originated in Argentina in the early 2000s, and has been adopted internationally. The image alludes to the white scarves worn by the Mothers and Grandmothers of the Plaza de Mayo; the original includes text specific to the Argentine movement (Campaña Nacional por el Derecho al Aborto Legal, Seguro y Gratuito - the National Campaign for the Right to Legal, Safe, and Free Abortion). The color and symbol have been used worldwide.
Are you looking for information about abortion? Here are two helpful resources:
Supplies
- Green fabric (for two adult-sized scarves/bandanas, one yard of 44" fabric)
- Iron and ironing board
- Measuring tools (ruler, cutting mat, etc)
- No sew version only: iron-on hem tape
- Sew version only: a needle and green thread
- White fabric paint/marker/crayon (all will work)
- Wax paper
- Pen or marker
- Pins
Step 1: Preparing the Fabric
1a. Wash fabric dry completely.
1b. Iron fabric.
1c. Measure fabric and cut into two 22"x22" squares (you can make smaller if you'd like).
The following instructions are for one (1) of those two squares.
Step 2: Hemming the Fabric: No Sew
2a. Measure the hemming tape and cut to the size you need. If desired, cut the tape in half horizontally for a thinner hem.
2b. Check the placement of the tape, then remove the tape and press the hem up with your iron. You can do this one side at a time, or all at once.
2c. Once the edge is ironed, follow the instructions for your hemming tape to iron it into the hem to hold the fold.
Step 3: Hemming the Fabric: Sewing
3a. Use the rolled hem stitch to hem the edges of the scarf. This can be done by machine, or by hand. For instructions on how to do the rolled hem stitch by hand, see this tutorial.
Step 4: Make Scarf Stencil
4a. Print or draw the shape of the handkerchief. The original here is 2 inches x 2 inches.
4b. Using wax paper, trace the design in pen.
4c. Using a utility knife or pair of scissors, place a second piece of wax paper over the marker-drawn one and trace with the sharp edge. This becomes your stencil.
Step 5: Add Stencil Outline to Scarf
5a. Iron the scarf you will be stenciling.
5b. Select the most attractive corner of the scarf.
5c. Choose your placement of the stencil, and pin in place.
5d. With your white fabric paint/marker, dab the stencil to leave the outline of the pañuelo shape on the fabric.
5e. Carefully remove the pins and the wax paper stencil.
Step 6: Paint the Symbol
6a. With your painting medium, solidify the outline from the stencil. Fill in the "top" of the pañuelo. Follow the instructions as to how many coats/how long between coats to apply.
Step 7: Ta Da!
7a. When the paint is dry, your scarf is ready to wear! It can be tied over your hair, around a ponytail or wrist, as a neckerchief, tied to a purse or backpack, and more. Make the second one and give it to a friend who also fights for bodily autonomy and reproductive freedom!
