When it comes to special occasions, sometimes we want that extra touch of elegance to complete the outfit. The perfect accessory can transform an outfit instantly, and one of my favorite items is a shawl/scarf. Either can turn one outfit into multiple looks! It’s truly a versatile and effortless accessory. You can choose a fabulous statement printed silk, and finish the edges with a rolled hem. This option is quick and easy, perfect for when you’re in a time crunch and need it ASAP for an upcoming event. If you want something a little more understated, choose a solid georgette or chiffon! We chose viscose georgette for this shawl, and I couldn’t be happier with the result. Pictured here with the Waterlily Dress, I love the georgette’s fluid drape and translucence. It allows the wearer’s main outfit of choice to not be completely hidden, only enhanced! For those wanting to go the extra mile, use a decorative stitch if your machine has that feature, and finish the edges with it!
Before you get started:
- Choose the yardage, and then cut the width to your desired length. I decided to make it extra easy: 2 yards in length, and half the width. I simply folded the fabric in half, selvedge to selvedge, marked the fold line, and cut!
- I wanted to use one of our machine’s decorative stitches to finish the edges. I chose a delicate yet detailed scalloped design. Because I wanted to add an extra special touch, I used metallic thread. It catches the light beautifully, yet the gold thread remains a subtle touch.
- If you’re using a metallic thread, I strongly suggest metallic needles for your sewing machine!
- Because I used a decorative stitch, I used a tear-away stabilizer. It worked perfectly!
How to Sew the Shawl:
Step 1
After you cut the shawl to your desired length and width, cut long strips of the stabilizer. I cut mine about 36” x 1.5”. It doesn’t need to be exact, but it does need to be slightly wider than your desired length. This will make it easier to tear.
Step 2
Sew the decorative stitch ¼” away from the raw edge. When the strip of stabilizer runs out, simply overlap a new strip under the edge of the old strip.
Step 3
When you get to a corner, you can either ease the stitch into curve, or pivot 90 degrees for a sharp corner. Practice a few options. You might find that one option works better than another, depending on the stitch you’re using.
Step 4
When you finish sewing, tear away the stabilizer from each end.
Step 5
Use small embroidery scissors to trim the excess fabric between the raw edge and the stitches. Try to cut closely, but not close enough that you accidentally cut into the stitches. This part of the process requires precision and will take the most time!
How important is it to adjust the ends of the fabric to the grain lines? Are there tips for sewing the ends of the fabric together? Perhaps with a flat fell seam?
Hi Kinuri, we’re sorry for the delay in responding to your question! We get dozens of comments and questions each day, and so many questions get buried and, unfortunately, unanswered. We are now focusing user support on patterns 2 years and newer. We hope this will prevent questions on our more current patterns from going unanswered. Although this is late, we wanted to respond in case anyone else has the same question: Yes! It should be drafted against the grainline. To finish the ends of the fabric, we recommend using a rolled hem or using a trim to cover the raw edge.