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Kids love pockets! To them, pockets are collection bins for random bits of joy. Sometimes the strangest things get placed inside them. In my son’s pockets, I’ve found special rocks, fabric scraps, tree bark, or even handfuls of grass. He also loves to put his small toys in his pockets so he can carry them around wherever he goes. That’s why I made him this easy DIY kid scarf with pockets.
This fleece scarf with pockets was created as an add-on to my Pocket Mouse and Bird plush toys. The easy DIY scarf is the perfect size for small hands and plush toys.
Pocket Mouse & Bird Plush Toy Sewing Patterns
Get my free plush toy sewing patterns for the small mouse and bird friends. Pairs perfectly with the pocket scarf. Free sewing patterns include printable PDF and SVG cut files.
Even though this DIY scarf with pockets tutorial is intended for a child scarf, you can easily make an adult version. I’ve included some tips for sizing below.
Materials
- fleece
- coordinating thread
- basic sewing supplies and tools
How to Make a DIY Scarf with Pockets
Cut a strip of fleece fabric 4″–5″ wide. The length of the scarf should be about the height of the person plus 14″–16″. This will allow it to hang at a natural position, right at the hands.
My three-year-old is currently 37″ tall which makes a 54″ wide piece of fleece just right.
At each end of the fleece strip, fold the end up 7″ and pin or clip. Add a pin or clip 2″ up from the folded end. This will be the bottom of the pocket.
Starting a stitch or two above the end of the fabric, backstitch a couple of times to secure. This is where the most stress will be on the stitches, so you want it to hold well.
Sew down the edge and stop at 2″ above the folded end. Pivot at that point and sew across the width of the fleece. Pivot up at the other side. Backstitch well at the top of the pocket.
Repeat on the other side of the fleece scarf.
BAM! You now have a scarf with two pockets.
The remaining 2″ below the pocket can be cut into 1/2″ strips to add a fringe edge.
For my kid’s pocket scarf, I left the fringes as loops. He loves having his plush mouse and bird in the pockets where they stay nice and cozy.
DIY T-Shirt Scarf with Fringe
Easily turn an old t-shirt into a fringed scarf using just a scissors.
The DIY kids scarf with pockets is perfect for little hands to keep comfy warm or carry things. See: Pocket Mouse & Bird Plush Patterns
Do your kids like filling their pockets? If so, then this DIY scarf with pockets is perfect for them.
I love this – it’ll be perfect for my 3-yr-old grandson. I have a question. Do you cut the fleece to the height of the intended user? In your photo, it looks like it’s longer than the height of your adorable little guy. Thank you!
Great question! The length of the fleece should be the height of the wearer plus 14″-16″. The extra length is for the pockets and fringe.