How To Make a Flapper Headband

You will need a length of decorative fabric such as velour or satin that is at least 3-4 inches wide and 2 inches longer than the circumference of your head plus 2 extra pieces about 1 inch square, a sheet of thin cardboard or plastic which can be trimmed to the right height for the headband, fabric glue, lightweight cotton fabric for lining, chalk, 2 buttons, needle and thread, sharp scissors, 3-4 inches of elastic, a medium safety pin, a large decorative feather, and plastic rhinestones, sequins, or small beads in corresponding colors.

Lay the fabric face down on your work surface. Cut the cardboard so that it is about 2 inches tall and 6-8 inches wide. Also cut the cotton to this size, but set aside. Center the board on the back of the fabric so that it is in the center from top to bottom and from left to right. Use 2 small drops of glue on either end to secure it in place. Next, fold the fabric over the cardboard and glue it down. When you reach the edges of the cardboard, keep gluing until you reach the edges of the fabric. Fold the ends back about ¾ inches and glue, to create a finished edge. Glue the cotton approximately centered over the cardboard.

Wrap the band around your head so that one end overlaps the other to draw the band snug against your face. Pinch the band with your finger at the point where the inside edge touches the outside piece of fabric. Use the chalk to mark a line at this point. From that line to the edge is where your button hole needs to be, and the button will be in the same place on the other side. Mark the center of this area with the chalk. To make the button hole, use the point of your scissors to cut a small hole, then cut it to the right length or about ¼ inch wider than the button. Cut the squares of fabric so that they can be folded over the edges of the buttonhole and glued, to finish the edges. Sew the button onto the other side.

Create another button hole in one end of the elastic and sew the button to the other end. This will be used to extend the band for wearing "Alice style" for everyday use. Glue the decorations on the front. Pin the feather to the back.