DIY Gaylay: Sew a Head Wrap in Minutes

Are you looking for a stylish way to protect your hair while making a fashion statement? A gaylay (head wrap) is the perfect solution! This traditional headwear has become increasingly popular for its versatility and beauty. In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to sew a head wrap in under 30 minutes with just basic sewing skills.

Materials You’ll Need

• Breathable fabric (cotton, silk, or other natural fibers)
• Fabric measuring 63″ x 30″ (you may need less width if you have less hair)
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• Narrow hem foot (optional but recommended)
• Scissors or rotary cutter
• Measuring tape
• Chalk for marking

Why Choose Breathable Fabric?

When selecting fabric to sew a head wrap, breathability is key. I recommend using cotton (like I did in this tutorial), silk, or other natural fibers that allow your hair to breathe. If possible, choose a fabric with a slight stretch for comfort and ease of styling.

Preparing Your Fabric

1. Start with fabric that’s approximately 45″ wide.
2. Measure and cut your fabric to 63″ in length and 30″ in width.
   • Pro tip: If you have less hair, you may only need 20″-25″ in width.
3. When cutting cotton fabric, you can make a small cut and then rip it straight across to ensure a perfectly straight line.

The Quick Hemming Method

For a professional finish, I recommend using a narrow hem foot. This fantastic attachment creates a perfect ¼” hem in one smooth operation.

If you don’t have one you my recommendations are below:

• Home Machine Rolled Hem Foot: https://amzn.to/42h9axc
• Industrial Machine Rolled Hem Foot: https://amzn.to/42eEvRj (this is an updated version of what I have)
• Magnetic seam guide: https://amzn.to/41ZXMXP (the one I have is maaad old 😂 – they don’t sell them anymore)

Sew a Head Wrap Using a Narrow Hem Foot:

1. Attach the narrow hem foot to your sewing machine.
2. Fold the edge of your fabric ¼” and then another ¼”.
3. Tuck this folded edge into the scroll of the hem foot.
4. Sew along the edge, guiding the fabric through the foot.
5. The foot will automatically create a perfectly even, narrow hem.
6. Repeat for all raw edges (you can leave the selvage edge as is since it won’t fray).

Sew a Head Wrap Without a Narrow Hem Foot:

Don’t worry if you don’t have this specialty foot! You can still create a beautiful hem:

1. Use a regular presser foot.
2. Fold the edge ¼” and then another ¼”.
3. Sew carefully along the folded edge.
4. For more precision, you can press the folds with an iron first or use a guide.

Finishing Your Head Wrap

Once you’ve hemmed all raw edges (leaving the selvage edge unfinished is fine), trim any loose threads, and your gaylay is complete! The entire project takes about 10-15 minutes with a narrow hem foot, or slightly longer using the regular method.

How to Style Your Gaylay

There are countless ways to style your new head wrap! You can:

• Wrap it around your hair when it’s in a bun
• Use it over another scarf for additional coverage and style
• Create different knot styles for various looks

Want to see styling techniques? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll create a follow-up tutorial showing different ways to wear your handmade gaylay!

Why Sew Your Own Head Wrap?

Creating your own head wrap allows you to:

• Choose fabrics that match your wardrobe
• Select breathable materials for hair health
• Customize the size for your specific needs
• Save money while getting exactly what you want

This simple sewing project is perfect for beginners and experienced sewists alike. With just one straight seam to worry about, it’s nearly impossible to mess up!

Have you made your own head wrap before? Share your experience in the comments below! And don’t forget to like and subscribe for more sewing tutorials for curvy women.

Other post that you may find interesting:

• How to Make a Head Wrap: The Ultimate DIY Guide for Stylish Head Accessory
• Should she wear her khimar?
• Is Your Fashion Style Muslim Enough?
• Is Modest Fashion Made for You?

* Some links are affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. It won’t cost you extra, and I’ll use that coffee money to keep supporting you on your sewing journey!