Sew your own hair tie: Your go-to scrunchie for every occasion

Sewing your own hair tie: It's really easy! The cool hair ties were called "scrunchies" in the nineties and were super hip. Now the fun ponytail elastics are back. In this post, you'll learn how to sew a stylish scrunchie yourself. Either very simple and plain, or even with a small zipper pocket for keys or loose change. The instructions are perfect for beginners.

The most important things at a glance

• Step-by-step instructions for sewing your own ponytail elastic
• Sewing a scrunchie very simply without a pattern
• Also available as a version with a practical zipper pocket
• Perfect for using up small fabric scraps
• Ideal as a quick beginner project
• ✂️ Sewing level: Easy
• ⏰ Sewing time: approx. 30–60 minutes

Scrunchie, hair tie or ponytail elastic - no matter what we want to call them, the elastic hair ties with the fabric cover from the nineties are back. Or were they ever gone? The practical little ponytail elastics are simply everywhere. Colorful, plain, small, large, in the hair or around the wrist.

No wonder. Because scrunchies are super quick to sew from almost any fabric. Woven fabrics like cotton, corduroy, viscose or muslin, or knitted fabrics like jersey, sweatshirt or French Terry. But also cuffing fabrics are well suited. There are hardly any limits here. And such a small fabric scrap is left over from every pattern. Perfect, therefore, to sew the right scrunchie for every outfit.

For this, you only need a fabric scrap of approx. 45-55 centimeters in length and 10-15 centimeters in width and an elastic band. And you can get started.

It gets really clever when you also incorporate a small zipper pocket. Because on a short jog or inline tour, you can keep loose change and your keys without taking an additional handbag. Really practical, right?!

And don't worry if you don't have any sewing experience yet. This is your perfect beginner project. Here you will learn step-by-step how you can sew your own personal scrunchie. And soon you won't be able to stop and will delight everyone with hair ties.

And I'll tell you one more thing: Theoretically, you wouldn't even need a sewing machine. Because you can also sew a scrunchie completely by hand, because it is such a small, manageable sewing project. You'll notice that it's not only good for you, but is also perfect for quick, small, beautiful gifts.

So, ready for a small, stylish upgrade?

YouTube tutorial: Sewing your own hair tie

What is a scrunchie anyway?

A scrunchie is a hair tie covered in fabric. The soft fabric not only makes it particularly decorative, but also feels more comfortable in the hair than many classic hair ties. This often results in fewer pressure marks and creases.

The term scrunchie comes from the English verb to scrunch, which means "to crumple" or "to scrunch". The accessory was invented and patented in 1987 by the American Rommy Revson.

The scrunchie celebrated its major breakthrough in the 1980s and especially in the 90s. After a short break, it returned to the runways of major fashion brands in the 2010s and is once again one of the most popular hair accessories of all.

The big advantage: Since scrunchies can be sewn from almost any fabric, they fit every style – from simple and elegant to colorful and playful.

Why should I sew a hair tie myself?

The short answer is: Because it's simply fun.

A scrunchie is one of the most popular beginner projects in sewing. It's quickly finished, immediately makes you want more, and at the same time has a practical use.

In addition, you can design your hair tie completely individually. Whether cotton, linen, muslin or satin – you decide which fabric best suits your style.

Your project becomes particularly sustainable if you use fabric scraps. From baby pants that have become too small, a favorite shirt or a worn-out scarf, unique keepsakes with a personal story are created. Beautiful flea market finds can also be wonderfully transformed into new favorite accessories.

This is how you sew your individual scrunchie to match every outfit – simple, elegant or boldly colorful. There are no limits to your creativity.

And the best part: A self-sewn hair tie is also a wonderful little gift that almost everyone will be happy about.

What do I need to know as a beginner to sew a hair tie myself?

For a classic scrunchie, you only need to be able to sew straight seams. That's why this project is perfect for everyone who is just starting to sew.

If you want to equip your scrunchie with a small zipper pocket, it is a bit more demanding, but with a good step-by-step guide, it is also easily doable.

If you are still missing the basics, I recommend my online sewing course “The SewSimple Sewing License". There you will learn everything important about materials, sewing machines and the most important sewing techniques for a successful start.

What does my sewing machine need to be able to do to sew a hair tie?

For a simple scrunchie, any sewing machine that can do a straight stitch as well as back and forward stitches is sufficient. With this, you can neatly lock the beginning and end of every seam.

If you want to sew in a zipper as well, you need a zipper foot. This is already included in the delivery of most sewing machines.

For invisible zippers, a special zipper foot is recommended. Its two guide grooves ensure that the zipper teeth are guided exactly and you can sew particularly neatly.

Reading tip: Sewing feet and their use

If you sew your scrunchie from cotton, linen or other woven fabrics, a universal needle of size 80 is sufficient. For jersey, sweatshirt or other elastic fabrics, you should use a jersey or stretch needle of size 80.

Since scrunchies can be sewn from many different materials, it is also worth taking a look at my post about sewing machine needles and their uses.

Which fabrics are suitable for sewing a hair tie yourself?

For your first self-sewn hair tie, classic cotton is particularly well suited. Cotton fabrics are easy to work with, shape-retaining, and available in countless colors, patterns, and designs. Especially for beginners, cotton is therefore the perfect choice to sew a first scrunchie.

If you don't have a suitable fabric scrap at home, it's worth taking a look in the scrap boxes of fabric stores. There you often find small fabric treasures that are ideal for a DIY hair tie. Old cotton shirts can also be wonderfully recycled and given a second life.

Jersey scraps are also excellently suited for sewing a scrunchie yourself. Often, small fabric strips are left over when sewing shirts or other garments, from which you can create matching hair accessories. This creates a perfect set that fits your outfit exactly.

Other beautiful fabrics for scrunchies are:

• Muslin for a light, casual look
• Linen for a natural style
• Corduroy for a particularly autumnal accessory
• Viscose for beautifully draping scrunchies
• Satin for an elegant version

Basically, the fabric should not be too thick, so that the hair tie can be nicely turned and processed later. Otherwise, anything goes. Try out different materials and discover your personal favorite fabric.

Do I need a pattern to sew a hair tie myself?

No. For a simple scrunchie without a pattern, you don't need a template. A straight strip of fabric is completely sufficient.

For a classic hair tie, you need a strip of fabric with the dimensions 45–55 cm in length and 10–15 cm in width and a piece of elastic band approx. 10 cm long.

You can easily adjust the size:

• A longer strip of fabric creates a more voluminous scrunchie.
• A shorter strip results in a smaller, more subtle hair tie.
• A narrower strip looks more delicate and less noticeable.

You can draw the dimensions directly on the wrong side of the fabric. For this, a chalk marker or a water-soluble fabric pen is particularly well suited, as the markings later simply disappear.

For cutting, you can use classic fabric scissors. Even easier and particularly straight cutting is achieved with a patchwork ruler and a rotary cutter.

My tip: Simply use the fabrics you like. That's exactly what makes self-sewn scrunchies so special – every piece becomes an individual accessory.

What you need to sew a hair tie

• approx. 50 x 10 cm fabric (depending on how gathered you want your scrunchie to be, your fabric strip can also be longer or narrower!)
• approx. 15 cm elastic band^* up to 10 mm wide
• if necessary, 15 cm zipper (preferably an invisible zipper^*)
• Scissors or rotary cutter
• Patchwork ruler^*
• Cutting mat^*
• if necessary, turning set^*
• matching sewing machine needle
• matching sewing thread^*
• Straight pins^*
• Fabricclips^*
• Ruler^*
• Chalk marker^*
• Fabric scissors^* 
• Thread scissors^*
• Sewing machine

Instructions: Sewing your own hair tie

Conclusion

Sewing a colorful hair tie yourself is easier than you think and is the perfect beginner sewing project. And the practical version with a small zipper pocket is not complicated either.

Once sewn, everything works like magic and it is a great practice project for concealed zippers. Plus, you will always have a matching scrunchie for every outfit. Because it is the perfect way to use up leftovers. And honestly, who wouldn't be excited about such a great gift?

So, get to work on your leftover box and quickly sew a few scrunchies. Let's party!

Happy simple sewing, Eve & Sabine

Frequently asked questions about sewing your own hair tie

What fabric is best for sewing a scrunchie?

Many different fabrics are suitable for your homemade hair tie. Cotton fabrics are particularly easy to work with, as they hold their shape and are also excellent for beginners. Muslin, linen, or viscose also look beautiful. If you want to sew a particularly soft scrunchie, jersey or French terry is a good choice. For an elegant look, you can use satin or silk.

My tip: Use fabric scraps from past sewing projects. This creates unique scrunchies that perfectly match your homemade clothing.

Can I sew a scrunchie without a pattern?

Yes. You do not need a pattern for a scrunchie. A simple strip of fabric is completely sufficient. Depending on the desired fullness, cut the fabric about 45 to 55 cm long and 10 to 15 cm wide. This makes it very easy to adjust the size to your taste.

Can I also sew a hair tie without a sewing machine?

Yes, that works without any problems. Since a scrunchie is a small sewing project, you can also close all the seams by hand with backstitching. Although it is much faster with a sewing machine, it is not necessary. This is why this project is also wonderful for sewing beginners or for sewing on the go.

How long should the elastic band be for a scrunchie?

The ideal length of the elastic band is usually between 18 and 22 centimeters, depending on how tight you want your hair tie to be later. It is best to briefly test the elastic band before tying or sewing it together. This way, you can individually adjust the length to your hair volume and personal preferences.

Which needle do I use for sewing a scrunchie?

For woven fabrics like cotton, linen, or muslin, a size 80 universal needle is suitable. If you are sewing with stretchy fabrics like jersey or sweatshirt fabric, you should use a size 80 jersey or stretch needle. This ensures clean seams and protects the fabric.

Are scrunchies better for your hair?

Many people find scrunchies particularly comfortable because the soft fabric covers the elastic band. This often results in fewer pressure marks and creases than with narrow hair ties. However, it is also important not to tie the hair tie too tightly and to change your hairstyle regularly to tie your hair together as gently as possible.

Can I also use jersey for a scrunchie?

Yes, jersey is even excellent. The material is soft, comfortable to wear, and creates a particularly voluminous scrunchie. Since jersey is stretchy, a jersey or stretch needle as well as an elastic stitch or a narrowly set zigzag stitch is recommended.

How do I wash homemade scrunchies?

Care depends on the fabric used. Cotton, muslin, and jersey can generally be washed in the washing machine at 30 to 40 degrees without any problems. For delicate fabrics like satin or silk, you should wash them in a gentle cycle or by hand if possible. To keep your scrunchie beautiful for a long time, air drying is recommended.

Is a scrunchie suitable as a gift?

Definitely. A homemade scrunchie is a quick and personal gift that almost everyone can use. It looks especially beautiful when you use fabrics that match the recipient's style or come from a special keepsake. Together with a small cosmetic bag or a matching headband variant, a lovely DIY gift is created in no time.

What do I do with small fabric scraps?

Scrunchies are among the best projects for making good use of fabric scraps. Even small pieces of fabric are often enough to sew a beautiful hair tie from. This way, unique accessories are created from the remnants of your favorite fabrics – sustainable, individual, and far too good for the fabric waste bin.