Using Vintage Wool Fabric Scraps to Make Wonderful Berets

Before I get into the sewing project. I thought I should introduce Maeve. I’ve been wanting a mannequin head for a long time. When I make hats or earrings, I wanted to show how they looked on an actual head. I couldn’t afford live models, so I bought Maeve. She’s bald, but I think she looks lovely that way.

I have some wonderful vintage wool fabric scraps that I picked up at estate sales. I really wanted to make either bags or hats out of the scraps. I loved this tan, black and white wool plaid. It’s nice and thick, so thick that I couldn’t sew a decorative seam at the band. I had to hem the band by hand.

Here’s the funny thing about me and wool. Most wool makes my nose run. I end up sneezing while I’m sewing. I love the fabric, but I can’t wear any wool items that I sew. This particular hat is quite thick, so I had my tissue box by my side as I cut the material out. I had to wash my hands many times because I had to blow my nose.

My second beret was made with a pink, white and black plaid.  This material is also wool.  The fabric was not as thick, so it was much easier for me to get through the cutting and sewing part of the hat. 

I love the fabric of both hats.  I think just about anyone looks great in a beret.  I may have to find some thick cotton or synthetic material that would work nicely for me. 

Both of these hats are lined with other scrap material that I had.  I usually crochet my hats, scarves and gloves every year.  This year I decided to sew.  Accessories use so little fabric, you, like me, may find that you have enough scraps in your stash to make a few very inexpensive Christmas gifts.

If you would like to make this particular beret, the pattern is McCall’s M5541.  The pattern includes 4 hats, 1 hood, 3 scarves, one mitten and one fingerless glove.  I’ll be making a couple more hats for Christmas gifts.