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How to Make a Scarf out of an Old Saree

Change your look from casual to elegant and exotic with a one-of-a-kind scarf made from old saree fabric. A saree is a long, unstitched piece of fabric between 4 1/2 to 9 yards long. The different elements of a saree will make breathtaking scarves to dress up your winter wardrobe. Wear the most decorative with your evening wear to add sparkle and interest to an otherwise plain dress. Use the less decorative portions of the saree to create inspiring designs for your everyday outfits.

Things You'll Need

Saree
Measuring tape
Scissors
Sewing machine or hand needle
Matching thread.

Instructions

- 1
  Unfold the saree and lay it out so that you can see all the sections. Do not use damaged or roughly worn portions of the saree. Check the pallu, or the highly decorated section, for damages to be sure it can be used. Cut away any damaged portions so that you do not inadvertently use them for the scarf.
- 2
  Measure the pallu section to make sure it is long enough to create a scarf. If you prefer a longer scarf, plan to add embellishments to the edge, such as a coordinating fabric or additional pieces from the remainder of the saree.
- 3
  Cut the pallu section away from the saree, placing the cut about 1 inch away from where the heavy design work ends.
- 4
  Select a 6-foot piece of the remaining, undecorated saree fabric to make an everyday scarf.
- 5
  Cut the plain portion of the saree along the edge where the decoration starts. This piece will make a scarf in the color of the saree.
- 6
  Hem the cut edges of the fabric, of both the decorative and the plain scarves, to prevent any unraveling. The edges can be serged, sewn with a zigzag stitch on a home sewing machine, or hand stitched. Make sure you choose the proper needle and thread for the saree fabric. Delicate silks or sheer fabrics will need a very small needle and fine thread to avoid creating noticeable holes and damaging the fabric.

Sewing