Ages 5 to 8
If there's a single sailor in the Caribbean who's savvy about fashion, it's Jack Sparrow. From boots you can strap onto sea turtles' backs to a striped waist sash and black glovelets, this sailor sure dresses in style. But more than pure show, these accessories serve practical purposes as well. After all, there's nothing like a snazzy bead-adorned bandana to keep a head full of braids and dreads under wraps when it's blowing a gale. Even if your wannabe pirate isn't worried about flyaway hair, he's certain to get a kick out of wearing this signature headband.
by Cindy Littlefield
What you'll need
- 2 red bandanas or pieces of fabric (about 22 inches square)
- Measuring tape
- Black yarn
- Scissors
- Assorted beads and shank-style buttons (with holes large enough for multiple strands of yarn to fit through)
- Safety pins
How to make it
1. Fold one bandana into a headband and tie the ends together, as shown, so that the tails of the knot are at least 4 inches long if possible.
2. Gather the second bandana in the middle and drape it over the knot in the headband, as shown.
3. Tie the knot tails around the second bandana to hold it in place.
4. Cut nine 22-inch lengths of yarn, gather them into a bunch, and tie an overhand knot at the top. Divide the strands below the knot into three groups and braid them, randomly sliding on beads and buttons as you go. When the braid is the length you want, knot the bottom and trim the ends. Make two more braids.
5. For the finishing touch, thread several beads onto a 6-inch length of yarn. Tie a loop in the yarn above the beads and pin it to the inner headband, so that the beads drape down over the top, as pictured.
6. Fold one bandana into a headband and tie the ends together, as shown, so that the tails of the knot are at least 4 inches long if possible.
Crafts
