How to make a shibori scarf

As a child tie-dye was fashionable, bright colored t-shirts hand dyed. Recently there has been a resurgence in interest in shibori. These scarves are inspired by the Japanese shibori style.

Shibori originated in Japan, it’s a technique which involves folding, twisting or bunching cloth and binding fabric, then dyeing with indigo. It’s easy to either make your own scarf or transform a thrift shop purchase.

For the sake of convenience, I have used a standard hand wash dye from Dylon, commonly available in the UK. This makes it an easily accessible technique. Alternatively, you can buy Indigo kits. I would love to have a go at natural indigo dying.

If you want more shibori inspiration check out these posts!

How to make a shibori table runner and table mats

Shibori inspired denim heart pencil cases

Shibori Quilt

Shibori inspired denim large floor cushion

How to make a shibori scarf

You will need:

Fabric Dye – buy the hand dye Dylon kit here, alternatively how about trying this Indigo Tye Dye kit?

Light cotton fabric 140 by 40 cm

Pom pom braid 80cm

Alternatively, a pre loved scarf from a charity shop (or thrift store if you are across the pond)

To make:

Hem the edges, double fold over the fabric and stitch.

The first scarf I bought a very light weight cotton. It is 140cm wide, I bought 40 c width. Hem the edges, double fold over the fabric and stitch.

Add a pom pom frill to the short edges of the scarf.

Use a large running stitch running the width of the scarf to gather up the fabric.

Once you have gathered the scarf tie with rubber bands, this creates a resist preventing the dye penetrating the fabric.

Mix you dye, following the packet instructions. Dye the scarf.

The best part, unwrapping the rubber bands and removing the running stitch.

You may be lucky and pick up a thrift shop scarf you can dye, saving the job of hemming plus keeping the cost minimal.

Do read further on how to tie dye with 11 different patterns to try.

I am contemplating making a quilted bed throw or duvet cover made with shibori pieces but with the six weeks summer holidays upon us that will just have to wait.  For further shibori style inspiration please visit the blogs below, there are so many amazing creations to make.

Shibori Indigo Dye Week!

Monday 7/24

Sarah at Sewing with Sarah – Shibori Top

Stephanie at Swoodson Says – Shibori Kit Review

Tuesday 7/25

Katie at Creative Counselor – Shibori Shift Dress

Sara at Radiant Home Studio – Shibori Zipper Pouch

Wednesday 7/26

Vicky at Vicky Myers Creations – Shibori Scarf

Stephanie at Swoodson Says – Shibori Blanket

Thursday 7/27

Ula at Lulu & Celester – Shibori Clutch

Friday 7/28

Laurel at My Heart Will Sew On – Shibori Maxi Skirt

Agy at Agy Textile Artist – Shibori with Mango Leaves

Stephanie at Swoodson Says – Shibori Curtains