I finally got the girls sitting behind the sewing machine, and it turned into the sweetest little afternoon project. Lately, they have been digging through my scarf drawer, looking for something cozy and colorful to wear with their outfits during the cold, rainy weather. Since two of them were home from school feeling under the weather, but still had just enough energy to be creative, we decided it was the perfect time to sew something simple, useful, and fun. An infinity scarf turned out to be exactly the right beginner sewing project for kids.
When my stack of Idle Wild knit fabrics arrived the week before, the girls could hardly wait to open the package. They immediately sorted through the prints and each claimed a favorite design. This fabric collection is full of cheerful patterns and pretty color combinations, which makes it especially fun for accessories like scarves. The knit fabric has a nice feel and enough structure to create a soft, comfortable scarf that still looks polished. It is also a forgiving fabric choice for a quick sewing project, which is helpful when children are learning how to guide fabric through a machine.
Now, on to the project itself. If you have sewn an infinity scarf before, you already know how wonderfully simple they are. If you have not, this is a great place to start. This is not a complicated or revolutionary sewing tutorial; it is more of a practical idea for a fast, satisfying project that kids can sew with guidance. The finished scarf is something they can actually wear, which makes the process feel even more rewarding. My girls each made their own scarf, and they were so proud of the results. There is nothing quite like seeing a child’s face light up when they come home from school and say that friends noticed something they made by hand.
We used a Babylock Evolution serger for these infinity scarves because it makes sewing knits quick and easy. The girls had never used the serger before, so I stayed right beside them the entire time. With close supervision, they did very well. They were able to sew slowly, keep control of the fabric, and pay careful attention to where their fingers were in relation to the blade and needles. These children were 8 and 10 years old at the time, and they handled the project responsibly. For younger children, or for anyone who is not comfortable with a serger, a regular sewing machine is a good option. No matter which machine you use, adult supervision is important. If you are looking for a beginner-friendly sewing project for kids, this infinity scarf tutorial is a simple way to build confidence while making something wearable.
- Cut one strip of knit fabric measuring 12″ x 60″. Trim the selvage edges from each end so the fabric strip is neat and even before sewing.
- Fold the strip in half lengthwise to create a 6″ x 60″ strip. Place the right sides of the fabric together, match the raw edges, and pin or clip along the long side. Wonder Clips are especially helpful for kids because they are easy to attach and remove while sewing.
- Sew all the way down the length of the strip, removing the pins or clips as you go. Encourage kids to sew slowly and guide the fabric gently rather than pulling it through the machine.
- Turn the long fabric tube right side out. Smooth the seam with your hands so the scarf lies nicely and the print is facing outward.
- Bring the two short ends together to form a circle. Match the right sides of the fabric at the ends, lining up the seam first, then continue matching the fabric around the circle. Pin or clip the ends together. Sew the two ends together from the wrong side of the fabric. This part can feel a little awkward because the scarf begins turning into itself as you sew. You will not be able to stitch the entire opening closed by machine. Stop when there is about a 2″ opening left, then adjust the fabric so the scarf is nearly fully joined and right side out.
- Close the small opening by hand stitching it neatly. If you prefer a no-sew finish for this final step, use an iron-on adhesive tape and press according to the product directions to seal the opening.
- Wrap the finished infinity scarf around your neck once or twice, adjust it comfortably, and enjoy your handmade accessory.
And just like that, we had a set of soft, colorful handmade infinity scarves ready to wear. This easy sewing project was quick enough to finish in one sitting, but meaningful enough that the girls felt a real sense of accomplishment. I have a feeling there will be many more handmade accessories in our future.