How to Make a Fabric Bow Headband

Fold the fabric rectangle lengthwise with the 4 1/2-inch sides together. Using a straight stitch on the sewing machine, stitch halfway along the fabric close to the edge. Backstitch, then lift the presser foot and trim any threads. Move the fabric forward about 1/2 inch, then stitch the rest of the seam, backstitching at the end and leaving a 1/2-inch opening in the center of the seam.

Still with right sides together, shift the seam so that it is in the center of the fabric. Iron the fabric rectangle down so the folds at the sides are creased, then sew the short ends of the fabric rectangle together, making a piece of fabric that is smooth on one side and has a seam with an opening in the center on the other side.

Pull the fabric through the opening in the center back to turn it right side out. Press the fabric with an iron.

Create a pinch of fabric in the center of the bow. Holding the bow in the center by the pinch of fabric, bring the top 4 1/2-inch side into the center pinch, creating a fan look. Repeat with the opposite 4 1/2-inch side, holding the bow only in the center. Leave the short edges free, creating a bow that is gathered in the middle. The top and bottom edges can be folded toward the back or front of the bow, depending on the desired look.

Use the alligator hair clip to clip the center of the bow and hold it in place as you secure the bow in the center. Wrap the embroidery floss around the center of the bow near the clip and tie it tightly. Remove the alligator clip.

Attach the bow to the headband by wrapping a grosgrain ribbon, lace, piece of fabric or other embellishment around the center of the bow where it is tied with the embroidery floss and glue or sew in place. Glue or sew the bow to a headband, depending on headband material. Plastic headbands require hot glue or craft glue, while bows can be sewn to elastic or fabric bands. Add any embellishments such as beads, buttons or smaller bows as desired. Use craft or hot glue to attach any accessories.