Quick answer
You can sew a scrunchie in about 30 minutes using a beginner sewing pattern, a rectangle of fabric, and elastic. Follow the video tutorial for visual guidance and you'll have a finished scrunchie even if it's your first project.
Why a beginner pattern makes it easier
A beginner sewing pattern takes the guesswork out of cutting and stitching. Instead of calculating measurements or figuring out seam allowances, you get clear steps that walk you through each stage. This lets you focus on learning the basic techniques rather than worrying about the math.
The scrunchie pattern from Crosscut Sewing Co. includes step-by-step instructions plus a full video tutorial. Watching someone demonstrate the tricky parts—like turning the tube and threading the elastic—can save you from common beginner mistakes.
Fabric choices and using scraps
One of the best things about sewing scrunchies is that they don't require much fabric. You can use leftover pieces from other projects or even repurpose old clothes, uniforms, or bed sheets. The pattern notes that many types of fabric will work, so you have plenty of freedom.
The measurements in the pattern are a guideline. If you want a puffier scrunchie, cut your fabric wider than the suggested 4.5 inches. This is a simple way to customize the look without changing the difficulty.
Step-by-step scrunchie sewing guide
- Cut your fabric: Cut a rectangle about 4.5 inches wide and 22 inches long. For a puffier scrunchie, cut wider than 4.5 inches. Use any fabric you like, including old clothes, uniforms, or bed sheets. Make sure your rectangle is straight – uneven edges make the next steps harder.
- Fold and pin: Fold the fabric in half lengthwise with right sides together. Pin along the long edge to keep the layers from shifting while you sew. Place pins perpendicular to the edge so you can sew over them or remove them easily.
- Sew the long seam: Using a straight stitch, sew along the long edge with a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Leave the short ends open. Backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the seam – otherwise it can unravel.
- Turn the tube right side out: Attach a safety pin to one end of the fabric tube and push it through to turn the tube right side out. This is easier if you work the fabric along the pin gradually. Go slowly – rushing can cause the fabric to bunch or the pin to slip.
- Insert the elastic: Attach the elastic to the safety pin and thread it through the tube. Keep hold of the other end of the elastic so it doesn't pull all the way through. Use a longer piece of elastic than you think you need – it's easier to trim than to fish out a short piece.
- Sew the elastic ends together: Overlap the elastic ends by about 1/2 inch and sew them together securely. Use a zigzag stitch or a couple of straight stitches to make sure they hold. Test the elastic strength by giving it a gentle tug before you close the tube.
- Close the tube and finish: Tuck the raw edges of the opening inside the tube and hand-stitch or machine-stitch the opening closed. Then shape the scrunchie by pulling the fabric along the elastic until it's evenly gathered. Evenly distribute the gathers – this makes the scrunchie look neat and professional.
Product to help you sew
-
Scrunchies - Beginner Sewing Pattern & Video Tutorial: The Scrunchies – Beginner Sewing Pattern & Video Tutorial includes step-by-step instructions and a full video tutorial that walks you through each part of the project. You can follow along visually, which makes it much easier to learn the correct technique the first time.
Scrunchies - Beginner Sewing Pattern & Video Tutorial
