Summer Scarf Halter

Learn how to transform a thrift store scarf into a cute summer staple with this tutorial.  For more scarf refashion projects, go to http://etcetorize.blogspot.com~

Here's what you need:
Materials:
-Large scarf (mine is about 26" (66cm) square)
-thread, scissors, pins
-sewing machine and measuring tape (not pictured)

Fold your scarf in half and cut along folded edge.

Now you have two pieces.

Take one piece and cut a 2-3" strip off the cut edge. (This step is optional if you need larger halter pieces and will make straps out of an alternate material.)

Cut your strip down the middle so that you'll have two long strips 1-1.5" wide.

With the remaining piece from step 2, fold over corners to create triangles on either end.  Cut the bottom layer of the scarf along the inside edges.

These are all of the pieces you should have.

2 long skinny pieces, 1 large rectangle (half of scarf), two small squares. Plus you'll have one small squarish piece that you don't need right now but hang onto it.

Fold the small squares to make a triangle.  Press the folded edge.  Zig zag or serge the unfinished edges and stitch along the inside of the finished edge.  This creates lined halter pieces.

Measure in approximately 3" in from each corner.  Stitch long basting stitches in between your marks to gather.  Gather slightly.

Find your large rectangle and mark the centre of the cut edge.  Place your halter pieces on either side.  You can overlap yours like I did to ensure good coverage, or if you're a little more daring, you can have the triangles meet at the centre. In either case, pin your pieces right sides down, raw edges even, and stitch in place.

Make sure you're happy with the fit and finish the raw edge with a zig zag or serger.  Pull out your basting threads and press the seam allowance down towards the bodice all along the entire edge.

I was originally going to use the long skinny pieces to create a band in between the bodice and the cups but changed my mind and decided to use them as straps instead (straps are pretty important in this project).  So, fold your skinny long pieces in half lengthwise with right sides together and stitch.  If you want wider straps use a smaller seam allowance.  I ended up using a 3/8 seam allowance for spaghetti type straps.


Trim your seam allowance and turn your strap so that it's right side out.  You can use a turning tool like I have or just use a small safety pin to guide the strap inside itself.

Attach one strap to each triangle bra top corner.

My scarf won't reach all the way around my back to overlap and secure closed.  So, remember that little square piece we had left over from all the cutting?  Well, just use it to make a couple of short straps just like we did in the steps above.  Attach them right into the seam allowance of the upper bodice edge.

And now you're ready to go to the folk festival, picnik, or just go out and enjoy the hot summer day!