Braided Jersey Knit Headband with Flower Accent

Learn how to make soft, stretchy braided headbands from jersey knit fabric or recycled t-shirts.

For years I collected easy camp crafts for both children and adults, and this braided jersey knit headband is one of the simplest, most versatile projects. It works well at kids’ sessions and adult workshops because the materials are inexpensive, the technique is forgiving, and the results are comfortable and practical.

These braided headbands are soft, stretchy, and gentle on hair. They’re perfect for keeping wispy bangs and flyaways out of a child’s face, or for an adult who wants a comfy headband while washing their face or doing skincare. Using recycled t-shirts makes this craft eco-friendly and budget-friendly.

How to Make Braided Headbands with Jersey Fabric or Recycled T-shirts

Supplies you’ll need

• Jersey knit fabric or old t-shirts (stretchy cotton blends work best)
• Scissors
• Needle and thread (matching color)
• Sewing machine (optional for faster assembly)
• Fabric glue or hot glue (optional for no-sew finishing)

Step-by-step instructions for a 5-strand braided headband

1. Measure around the head of the person who will wear the headband and note the measurement. For a snug, stretchy fit, plan to make the finished headband slightly smaller than this measurement so it stretches comfortably into place.
2. Cut five long strips of jersey knit fabric approximately 2 inches wide and about double the head measurement. If you prefer a narrower look, cut 1/2 to 1 inch wide strips instead. Using recycled t-shirts, cut horizontally across the body of the shirt to get long continuous loops, then slice them into strips.
3. Stack the five strips together and secure them at one end by sewing across with a straight stitch or by hand-stitching. If you prefer no-sew, a small dab of hot glue will hold the strips in place—just be careful with hot glue on thin fabrics.
4. Pull each fabric strip gently so the edges curl slightly; this curling effect adds texture and helps the braid look fuller. Jersey knit naturally rolls at the edges, which makes the braids look attractive without extra finishing.
5. Tape the sewn or glued end to a flat surface to anchor it. Arrange three strips to the left and two strips to the right to prepare for braiding.
6. Braid the five strands by alternating movements from left to right: start with the outermost left strand, bring it over neighboring strands in a sequence, then do the same with the outermost right strand. Continue this alternating pattern until the braid reaches the desired length. A tight, even tension gives the best finished look.
7. When the braid is complete, overlap the loose ends and secure them by sewing or gluing tightly. Trim any excess fabric.
8. To finish, cover the seam where the ends meet with a small fabric flower or another decorative element. This hides the join and adds a polished touch.

Tip: If you want a reversible or wider headband, make two braids and stitch them together or layer them for more volume. Stretching the strips before braiding ensures uniformity and helps the headband lie flat against the head.

Step-by-step instructions for a jersey knit flower

1. Cut five circles from jersey knit fabric about 3 inches in diameter. Make the edges slightly wavy and irregular for a natural, ruffled look—imperfection is charming here.
2. Layer the circles so the waves don’t line up perfectly. Offsetting the layers creates fuller texture when gathered.
3. Stitch a large “X” through the center of all layers with needle and thread, then pull the thread tight to gather the fabric into ruffles.
4. Knot the thread securely on the back. For added body, apply a few small dabs of hot glue to hold ruffles in place and create extra dimension.
5. Attach the finished flower to the headband by sewing or gluing it over the seam where the braid was joined.

This simple fabric flower is quick to make and a great way to reuse small jersey scraps. It also lets you coordinate colors and patterns to match outfits or themes for camp activities, parties, or gift-making.

Variations, tips, and ideas

• Use different widths or numbers of strands for varied looks: three-strand braids are quicker, while five-strand braids look more intricate.
• Combine solid and patterned t-shirt strips for contrasting textures and a more decorative headband.
• For a no-sew option, use fabric glue at the joins and reinforce with a small decorative wrap around the seam.
• These braided headbands make simple handmade gifts, party craft activities, or upcycled fashion accessories for all ages.

Other fabric craft ideas

• Jersey knit bracelets made from t-shirt strips
• Custom tablecloths with ruffles and pleats
• Tattered fabric flowers for stockings, pillows, or accents
• Large DIY fabric flowers for home decor
• Simple Scandinavian-style fabric ornaments for seasonal decorating
• Quick DIY holiday pillows and soft decor projects

Originally posted June 26, 2012. Updated January 21, 2022.

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