Crafting A Wedding Cravat: A Step-By-Step Guide

Cravats are a fun project that doesn't require too many tools. Making your own cravat allows you to experiment with different styles and knots. A cravat is a decorative neck scarf that originated in 17th-century Croatia and eventually evolved into modern neckwear. Today, the term cravat is used as a general term for neckwear, including bow ties, neckties, and ascots. They are commonly worn at weddings, especially by the groom, best men, and ushers.

To make a cravat, you will need pins, a sewing machine, thread, scissors, a steam iron and ironing board, a measuring tape, a flat work area, pattern paper and a pencil, a pattern pencil or chalk, and two strips of fabric that are at least 9 inches wide and about 2.2 yards long. The process for tying a casual cravat and a traditional wedding cravat is very similar, except that a casual cravat aims for a puffed-out look, while a wedding cravat is usually smooth and flat.

Choosing the right fabric

Fabric Type

Cravats are typically made with soft and breathable fabrics that drape elegantly and are comfortable for the wearer. Popular choices include silk, satin, and other soft materials. Silk, in particular, is a luxurious and opulent option that adds a touch of sophistication to your wedding ensemble. It is also an excellent choice for a summer wedding, as it is lightweight and comfortable in warm weather.

Fabric Weight

Consider the weight of the fabric, especially if you plan to wear the cravat for a summer or winter wedding. For warmer months, opt for soft and lightweight fabrics such as printed silk, which will feel gentle on your skin and keep you cool. On the other hand, a heavyweight woven cravat made from thicker materials is more suitable for winter weddings or colder climates, pairing well with stronger and darker colours.

Fabric Pattern

The pattern and colour of your cravat fabric can be chosen to complement your wedding suit and showcase your personality. While weddings tend to call for more muted or plain colours, a cravat is a great way to add a pop of colour to your outfit. Consider choosing a strong contrasting colour or a playful print to stand out from the crowd. If you're feeling bold, go for bright shades, or opt for muted accessories to match your suit. Remember to take into account the season and weather conditions when making your selection.

Fabric Versatility

When choosing a fabric, consider the versatility it offers in terms of styling. A cravat can be worn in different ways, either higher up on the neck with a buttoned-up shirt or more loosely with an open-neck shirt. Opt for fabrics that will drape well and allow you to experiment with different styles. Additionally, consider the formality of the wedding and select a fabric that aligns with the tone of the event.

Fabric Durability

Finally, consider the durability of the fabric, especially if you plan to wear the cravat for extended periods. Look for high-quality fabrics that will withstand multiple wears and washes without losing their shape, colour, or softness. This is especially important if you plan to make the cravat a staple accessory in your wardrobe.

Gathering supplies

To make a cravat, you will need the following supplies:

• Pins
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• Scissors
• Steam iron and ironing board
• Measuring tape
• A flat work area (such as a table)
• Pattern paper and a pencil
• A pattern pencil or chalk
• Fabric

The amount of fabric you will need depends on how many times you want the cravat to wrap around your neck. For a cravat that wraps twice, you will need two strips of fabric that are at least 9 inches (23 cm) wide and about 2.2 yards (2 meters) long. If you want a cravat that only wraps once, the fabric can be shorter, at about 1.6 yards (1.5 meters). You can use any pattern and any type of soft fabric, such as silk, satin, or another soft material. You can even use two different fabrics to make a reversible cravat.

Measuring your neck

To measure your neck, use a measuring tape to determine the circumference of your neck. Whatever that measurement is, subtract one-half inch (1.3 cm), and divide that number in half. Write this measurement down, as you will need it for the next step to create your pattern. For example, if your neck circumference is 15 inches, subtract 0.5 inches, which leaves 14.5 inches. Divide that by 2, and you get 7.25 inches. This will be your measurement.

If you are making a generic or one-size-fits-all cravat, use eight or nine inches as your measurement. Now that you have your neck measurement, you can move on to the next step of creating your pattern.

Creating a pattern is a crucial step in ensuring your cravat fits well and looks stylish. Using pattern paper and a pencil, draw a rectangle that is 2.5 inches (6.3 cm) wide and the length based on the neck measurement you calculated. Connect this rectangle to an elongated hexagon that is 7 inches (17.8 cm) wide and between 21 and 31 inches (53 to 78.8 cm) long, depending on your desired cravat length. Ensure that the centre of the rectangle aligns with the lengthwise centre of the hexagon. When you are satisfied with your pattern, carefully cut it out.

Creating a pattern

To create a pattern for a cravat, you will first need to choose a fabric. Typically, cravats are made with soft fabrics that are comfortable to wear and easier to tie and wrap. Popular fabric choices include silk, satin, or other soft materials. You can even use two different fabrics if you want to make a reversible cravat.

Next, gather your supplies. You will need pins, a sewing machine, thread, scissors, a steam iron and ironing board, a measuring tape, a flat work area, pattern paper, a pencil, and two strips of fabric that are at least 9 inches (23 cm) wide and about 2.2 yards (2 meters) long. If you want to make a cravat that only wraps once around your neck, the fabric can be shorter, at 1.6 yards (1.5 meters).

Now, measure your neck. Subtract half an inch (1.3 cm) from this measurement and divide the result by two. Write this down, as you will need it for the next step. If you are making a generic or one-size cravat, use 8 or 9 inches as your measurement.

Draw the pattern on the pattern paper. Create a rectangle that is 2.5 inches (6.3 cm) wide and the length you calculated in the previous step. Connect this rectangle to an elongated hexagon that is 7 inches (17.8 cm) wide and between 21 and 31 inches (53 to 78.8 cm) long, depending on your desired cravat length. Ensure that the centre of the rectangle aligns with the lengthwise centre of the hexagon. Cut out this pattern.

With these steps, you will have created a pattern for your cravat, ready to be used for cutting and sewing.

Sewing the cravat

Now that you have your pattern and fabric ready, it's time to start sewing your cravat!

Firstly, lay out the pattern. Take both your strips of fabric and fold them in half widthwise. With the folds together, lay them out on a flat surface. Place the pattern on top of the fabric, positioning the very top of the neckband along the straight folds of the fabric. Pin the pattern in place, making sure to go through all four layers of fabric.

Next, use your chalk or fabric pencil to trace the pattern onto the fabric. Carefully remove the pattern and replace the pins to hold the fabric in place. Cut out the two pieces of your cravat.

Now, open the folds so that your two cravat pieces are flat. Lay them out with the good sides of the fabric pieces facing inward (facing each other). Pin the edges together.

Sew the cravat with a straight stitch, remembering to leave the bottom triangle open so that you can turn the cravat right side out when you are finished. Be sure to back stitch at the beginning and end. Use a one-quarter to one-half inch (0.6 to 1.3 cm) seam allowance.

Once you've sewn the cravat, snip the corners. Anywhere there is a corner, make a single snip in the fabric that bisects the angle of the corner. This will help create neater edges. Just be careful not to cut the seam.

Now, turn the cravat right side out. When you have pulled the right sides of the fabric through, carefully press the edges around the entire cravat using your iron.

Finally, sew the bottom closed. Use your iron to press up the open fabric ends, following the same seam allowance as before. Pin the edges together, and either top stitch the bottom or use a needle and thread to create a blind stitch.

Frequently asked questions