Reverse Applique Fleece Scarf

A few weeks ago, I posted the fun we had making Fleece Boa Scarves.  We've since made a bunch more of them and I discovered that I really enjoy working with fleece.  It's inexpensive, cozy & colorful, and you don't have to worry about finishing the edges.  I'm also really loving scarves this winter for me and my girls ~ such a cute way to add a little style.  

So, I did some looking around online for other styles of scarves I could make with fleece.  I found this great tutorial for a reverse applique scarf and knew I wanted to try it.  (Basically with a reverse applique, instead of adding a layer of fabric to make a shape, you cut away a layer.)  Then I found this post, which added a loop to a fleece scarf ~ also a neat idea.  I ended up making a scarf very similar to the first tutorial and then putting it together with my own twist on the loop shown in the second one.  Here's the really cute end result...

SUPPLIES:

* two fleece strips (mine were approx. 6" x 46")

* a few fleece scraps to match

*  washable marker

* sewing machine

* small pair of scissors

DIRECTIONS:

1.  Cut your fleece strips.  Since my scarf was going to be for a child, I made them approx 6"x46".

2.  Starting approximately 5" from one end, sew down each long edge and across the short edge.  I made my seams approx. 3/4" on the long edges because I knew I wanted to go back with the pinking shears at the end.  If you don't want to pink the edges, you can make your seams 1/4".  On the short ends, sew across about 5 inches from the edge so you can cut fringe.

3.  Using a washable marker, lightly draw the shape of your applique.  Then stitch over the outline.

4. Next, cut away the top layer to reveal the shape in the bottom color. To do this, pinch the top layer of fleece, make a small cut, then cut as close to your stitching as you can without cutting into the bottom layer. 

5.    Make two marks approx. 12" and 15" inches from one end of the scarf.    Cut three pieces of coordinating scrap fleece, approx. 1"x 8", then braid together.

6.  Pin the braided strip to the marks you made and stitch onto the scarf.  Go back and forth with your stitching to really secure the braided loop.

7.  Put the finishing touches on your scarf.  Using a damp cloth, dab around your appliqued shape to remove the marker.  Trim any loose threads.  Use pinking sheers to cut along the edges of the scarf and cut fringe at the ends.  Use a small pair of scissors to fringe the ends of your braided loop.  

8.  Give the adorable scarf to a super cute, special someone!  I really like how that added loop helps keep the scarf in place ~ no more lopsided scarves to drag on the ground!

One of my loves ~ Kid #3!