DIY Patchwork Scarf

Recently I bought a Liberty of London sample pack at the Tokyo Quilt Festival.  When I bought it, I wasn't really sure what I could make with 50 4"x4" squares, but I was so in love with the colors and it was a great price - I couldn't resist.  I'm glad I didn't, because this scarf turned out to be the perfect project for this little sample pack.  It could also be a great way to use up scraps from your stash!

Here are the supplies you'll need:

50 4"x4" squares of fabric
1/2 yard fabric for backing at least 44"wide
scissors/pins/iron
sewing machine/thread

Design your scarf by laying the squares into two rows of 25

Piece the scarf by sewing 4 squares into one larger square using 1/4" seams, like this:

*select the first four squares in the scarf,

*sew two squares along one edge
 be sure to press the seams open,

*repeat with the other two squares.

*Sew these four together, matching up the center seam, using 1/4" seam.

*press the seams open.

*continue this process until you have 12 large squares and an extra 2 small squares sewn together (that should equal 50).

Next, sew the larger pieces to one another, right sides together, to form a long scarf (again use 1/4" seams and press them open).

Cut out the back - two pieces 44" x 7.5".  Sew them end to end, right sides together, to form one long piece 87.5" x 7.5"

Pin the back to the front, right sides together.
Sew along the edge, using 1/4" seams, but leave about 3" open at one end.

Trim any uneven edges (you don't want it making your seams bulky) and cut the corners.

Flip the scarf right sides out.

Press under raw edges of the opening and pin.  Start there, and top stitch around all the edges 1/4".  I used a contrasting thread for this to make it decorative.  This step will take  your scarf from looking homemade to handmade.

Enjoy wearing your new scarf!  You can see more of my projects over at www.sewhomegrown.com.  Stay warm!