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How to sew a hood? (9 step-by-step instructions)
Hoods are a common part of winter-clothing and are sometimes found incorporated in various clothing items in many creative ways. It has inspired the creation of one of the most popular clothing items for the chilly season, which is of course, the ‘hoodie’. It is one of the comfiest things out there and looks cool on every single person.
If you know how to sew hoods, you can upcycle a lot of your clothing items. We have come up with simple directions to help you sew a hood.
How to make a hood pattern?
To sew a hood, you can either make a hood pattern or take your body measurements. If you would like to make a hood pattern, follow these steps:
1. Take Measurements: Measure the circumference of the head where the hood will sit. Measure from the base of the neck to the top of the head to determine the height of the hood. Additionally, measure the length from the base of the neck to the desired length of the hood.
2. Draw the Hood Shape: Start by drawing a rectangle on a piece of paper. The width of the rectangle should be equal to half of the head circumference measurement plus some ease (usually 1-2 inches). The length of the rectangle should be equal to the desired height of the hood. Round off the corners of the rectangle to create a curved shape for the top of the hood.
3. Create the Hood Side Panels: From the top corners of the rectangle, draw two lines downward at a slight angle. The length of these lines should be equal to the length measurement from the base of the neck to the desired length of the hood. Connect the ends of these lines with a curved line to complete the side panels of the hood.
4. Add Seam Allowance: Once you have drawn the hood shape, add seam allowance around the edges of the pattern. Typically, a 1/2 inch to 1 inch seam allowance is added.
5. Cut out the Pattern: Cut out the pattern along the outermost lines.
6. Test the Pattern: To ensure that the pattern fits correctly, you can test it by making a mock-up using inexpensive fabric. Make any necessary adjustments to the pattern based on the fit and appearance.
7. Transfer the Pattern: Once you are satisfied with the pattern, transfer it onto a sturdier material, such as cardboard or plastic, to create a reusable pattern.
These steps will help you create a basic hood pattern. Keep in mind that there are different hood styles and variations, so you may need to modify the pattern accordingly based on the specific design you have in mind.
Supplies Needed
Before we begin, gather the following materials:
1. Hood measurements or pattern
2. Fabric of your choice
3. Sewing Machine
4. Matching Thread
5. Pins
6. Scissors
7. Measuring Tape
8. Iron and Ironing Board
9. Notions, such as drawstrings, toggles, or buttons (optional)
How to sew a hood?
To sew a hood, follow these step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Fabric
Start by selecting your fabric. Depending on your project, you may choose a warm fleece, a light-weight cotton, or even a waterproof material. Remember to prewash and iron the fabric to eliminate any shrinkage and achieve a smooth finish.
Step 2: Measure and Cut
Measure the circumference of your head at the level you want the hood to sit. Add a few inches for comfort and seam allowances. This measurement will determine the length of the hood’s opening. Additionally, determine the height of the hood by measuring from the top of your head to the desired length. Using these measurements, draw a rectangle on your fabric. The width of the rectangle should be equal to the head circumference measurement plus seam allowances. The height of the rectangle should match the desired hood height plus seam allowances. Cut out the fabric piece carefully.
Step 3: Create the Hood Shape
Fold the fabric piece in half lengthwise, with the right sides facing each other. Align the edges accurately and pin them together. If you have a hood pattern, use it to guide your cutting and shaping. Otherwise, use a curved ruler or freehand to create a rounded hood shape. Pin the curved edges together, ensuring that they are properly aligned.
Step 4: Sew the Curved Edges
Using your sewing machine or needle and thread, sew along the pinned curved edges, leaving the straight edge open. Sew with a ½ inch seam allowance, backstitching at the beginning and end to secure the stitches. If you are hand-sewing, use a running stitch or a backstitch for added durability.
Step 5: Trim and Clip
Carefully trim the excess fabric from the curved seam allowances, being careful not to cut through the stitches. This step helps reduce bulk and allows the hood to lay flat when turned right side out. Next, make small cuts along the curved seam, known as notches, without cutting through the stitching. This will help the curved edges lie smoothly after turning.
Step 6: Turn the Hood Right Side Out
Reach inside the hood and grab the opposite end, then gently pull the fabric through the opening. Continue pulling until the entire hood is turned right side out. Use your fingers or a blunt object to push out the corners and shape the hood.
Step 7: Press and Finish
To achieve a professional finish, press the hood using an iron on a low heat setting. Pay attention to the seams and edges to make them crisp and flat. If desired, you can topstitch around the hood’s curved edges to reinforce the seam and add a decorative touch.
Step 8: Attach the Hood to Your Garment
Pin the open end of the hood to the corresponding garment opening, ensuring that the right sides are facing each other. Adjust the positioning to fit your desired style. Sew along the pinned edge using a ½ inch seam allowance, securing the hood to the garment. Backstitch at the beginning and end for extra strength.
Step 9: Finishing Touches
Finally, give your hood the finishing touches that will enhance its functionality and style. You can add drawstrings, toggles, or buttons.
Watch this video for further help:
Summary
Learning how to sew a hood opens up a world of possibilities in garment construction and customization. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can easily create a hood that adds functionality, warmth, and style to your clothing projects.
With practice and experimentation, you’ll gain confidence in sewing hoods and adapt the technique to suit your unique creations. So go ahead, grab your fabric, and start sewing your way to a fabulous hooded garment.
Frequently Asked Questions
To sew a hood, you’ll need to measure and cut the fabric accurately. Start by measuring the circumference of your head where the hood will sit, and add a few inches for ease and seam allowances. Next, determine the desired height of the hood and add seam allowances to that measurement as well. Using these measurements, mark and cut the fabric accordingly, making sure to account for any pattern pieces or additional shaping needed for the style of hood you want.
The choice of stitches depends on the fabric you’re working with and the desired finish. For most hoods, a straight stitch is commonly used for construction and joining seams. However, if you’re working with stretchy or knit fabric, using a stretch stitch or a zigzag stitch can provide more flexibility. It’s also recommended to reinforce stress points such as the corners or seam intersections with a backstitch or bar tack to ensure durability.
Attaching a hood to a garment typically involves sewing it to the neckline of the garment. Start by aligning the center back of the hood with the center back of the garment, right sides together. Pin or baste the hood to the neckline, making sure the edges match up. Then, sew the hood to the garment using a straight stitch or other suitable stitch, following the seam allowance specified in the pattern or desired design. Trim any excess fabric and finish the raw edges with a serger, zigzag stitch, or bias tape.
If you want to add a lining to a hood for a clean and polished look, it can be done by sewing an additional fabric layer on the inside. Cut the lining fabric using the same pattern as the main hood but slightly smaller to account for the added bulk. Place the lining fabric right sides together with the main fabric, matching the edges, and sew around the hood’s outer edge, leaving an opening for turning. Trim the seam allowance, turn the hood right side out through the opening, and press it flat. Finally, sew the opening closed either by hand or using a machine stitch.
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Happy Stitching.
