Knecky Scarf

by jprussack

5.3K1116

Intro: Knecky Scarf

The Knecky Scarf is a project I started two years ago with a friend in Chicago. We were struggling to manage massive layers while looking professional for job interviews. A heavy scarf doesn't complement formal clothes... it also looks ridiculous to go without!

Knecky is a neck cowl that covers neck, face and ears.

Here's a look at our process and current design. Posted on Etsy!

www.knecky.com

STEP 1: Sewing Machine + Materials

Sewing Machine

  • Purchasing a sewing machine is simple!
  • The fantastic thing is that buying used gets you a better machine, at a better price, than buying new!
  • How? Every Salvation Army (of any quality) has one in stock at all times. Typically priced between $20-40. The one show in s a portable Singer from the 60s for $22.

Materials

  • Outer Material - 11.5"x48", sturdy material, flannel, fleece, suede... there are many options
  • Inner Material - 10.5"x48", soft/warm liner, baby blanket material, sherpa, fleece... again, many options
  • Thread - select to match the exterior. Interior shag will hide the thread. (for fleece you may want to match the bobbin)
  • Buttons - 1" stained wood buttons
  • Zipper - 9" or 12". we used gold zippers to add a certain aesthetic

STEP 2: Assembly | Layering the Materials

We used a basic "pillow case" technique followed with a "stitch in the ditch" finish.

The two materials are stitched together so that when laid flat the exterior material rolls over about 1/4" on to & bottom. We then turned the "pillow case" right-side-out and stitched down the seam or "stitched in the ditch."

[apologies for drawing in photos from different scarves]

STEP 3: Assembly | Finishing

We produced three variations. The two button, four button and zipper.

Each finishes a little differently.

Two Button

  • Cut to length (adding an additional ~2 inches for overlap)
  • Finish the edges
  • Hand stitch through only the first layer so that there is a single seam

  • Add button holes & buttons

Four Button

  • Cut to length (adding an additional ~2 inches for overlap)
  • Finish the edges
  • Double the material back to create the accent show in the photos
  • Add button holes & buttons

Zipper

  • More challenging than the button-ups...
  • Cut to length and while inside out stitch in the zipper along the diagonal
  • Turn right side out and alight the second side
  • Double over material. hand stitching is required to make a clean finish

STEP 4: Prototype V1.0

The first prototype was an ordinary scarf we cut in half. We added button holes and wooden buttons we made from a dowel.

STEP 5: Modeling at the Office

Gathered a few coworkers and a pup for a few shots. Hope you enjoy the gallery and can try the project yourself. If you would like to see what we put together you can find the website at www.knecky.com or www.etsy.com/shop/kneckyscarf

Thank you!

6 Comments

rolfy12 9 years ago

Visited website for a better look. I like that one doesn't end up with a knot pressed against one's neck after zipping the coast over the scarf. Great work and design!

jprussack 9 years ago

Thanks for the note and for checking out the site!

Vikalpah 9 years ago

Wow ! Love the designs :)

Chris Logan 9 years ago

This is how spam should be!

I think that it's extremely fair to exchange a detailed how-to for a quick mention on where to buy.

Thank you! (and of course, I favorited an item on your etsy so that I can shop later)

jprussack 9 years ago

Thanks Chris, was concerned about placing the link and appreciate your support! Excited about the project and hope others can share the design!