Homemade Headbands

I have always liked headbands, but had difficulty wearing them. The plastic ones always seem to dig into your head. Plain ribbons or bandana types always slide off. I've been seeing a lot of headbands lately and finally noticed a new style--with elastic. Rather than pay the $10-20 I've seen them for sale for, I decided to try to make my own. I still can't figure out how to make a thick sash kind (I'll need to actually examine one first), but I've been playing around a bit and developed a design that seems to work pretty well.

I got the ribbon idea from my mom and used it as a starting point. This is the easiest headband ever--and for me, a great way to make my hair ribbons actually usable (or at least, less annoying). It takes literally 3-5 minutes. Ribbons with the wire on the edge are the easiest.

This is my least favorite headband so far and my first one. I was going for the chunky sash style, but it was a little too thick and hard to wear. I also realized it would be best to double-side it, at least until I can see what the real ones look like and how to construct them. After a few tries, I think this headband looks pretty good. I added ties so it will look good even in a ponytail.

This is my favorite so far. I used a shinier, more delicate fabric with a contrasting, but still neutral decorative top-stitching. I also have decided I like the scrunched fabric covered elastic best, which you can't see here. I like how feminine this one turned out.

I made this one for Erin for her birthday. It was my second try and my first scrunched fabric elastic. In fact, that's my favorite part. I am still trying to figure out the best way to finish the opening I turn it right-side-out with (without handsewing). This time I used another contrasting decorative topstitch to finish the edges.

I know these aren't anything super complex. But I am a little proud of myself for designing them myself. I like small projects like this because they are good for learning on--not much accountability if I mess up.