Boys Skinny Tie Tutorial

The idea for this project came when I was trying to figure out a unique gift for boys that I could give to my friend at her baby shower. Girls have so many accessories and cute things, that I decided boys needed something fun to dress up their outfits too. So I got busy and created some skinny ties and made a pattern for bow ties. The bow ties have yet to manifest themselves, but it will happen! Soon hopefully.

For now, I present you with the skinny tie tutorial. This is actually my first tutorial that I had to break down start to finish. It was a lot trickier than I thought it would be. Trying to think of the best way to break down the steps took careful thinking and trying to take pictures with my left hand while holing things in my right hand...awkward! So I apologize in advance if things aren't as clear as they should be. I'm excited to create more project tutorials and with time get better at doing them! So here it is:

1. Print out pattern and cut out. Cut the neck band on the fold so it's double the length. The tie part of the pattern is cut in half for scanning purposes, so you will need to tape the two pieces together, having the longest points on opposite sides (see picture on step two).

This pattern is sized for 6-12 months. If you need to adjust the length on the tie or neck band, take measurements of your little guy and then add the extra length. For the tie part add the length in the middle. To print your pattern, click here and here. I appologize that it's not formatted to click and print in PDF format. I have no idea what I'm doing and couldn't get it to work (BTW, my friend Amy totally revamped my pattern, making it look much more professional. Thanks Amy, you're the best!).

2. trace your pattern out onto the back side of your fabric. After you have cut it out, the tie part should look something like this.

3. Fold the longer part of the diagonal across so it leaves an even triangle shape on each end. Make sure you're doing it right sides together.

4. Sew up the the unfinished edge then trim the end close to the seam, being careful not to cut into it. This will help the fabric to lay flat when you turn it right-side out.

5. Repeat same steps on the other end and then turn right-side out.

6. Fold the length of the tie in half, right sides together, making sure your crease is in the center of the two triangle ends. Pin closed and sew up the raw edge.

7. Once you have sewn up the edge you will turn it right-side out. The easiest way is to use the safety-pin method. Poke the pine through one side of the fabric on either end. I did mine on the skinnier end. Close the pin shut and push into the hole or tube of the fabric (not sure if that makes sense).
Continue to push pin down through the middle, scrunching the fabric until it comes out the other end. Continue pulling the fabric through.

8. Once you've got your tie right-side out, iron on the proper setting, centering your seam.

9. Cut out the neck band that you've traced out.

10. Fold the strip length-wise, matching the raw edges. sew up the unfinished side.
11. Repeat step seven, using the safety-pin method turn your neck band right side out.

12. Fold raw edges inside and pin shut. Sew each end closed.

13. Sew on velcro stitches or you can use the sticky kind, but I usually have to sew those on to reinforce them anyway. You can make them as long as you you desire if you're wanting to be able to adjust the neck size a little. Make sure to do the strips on opposite sides of the fabric. You can see below one piece is on the finished side and the other is on the side with the seam.

14. Take the tie and cross it with the skinnier end folded under the larger one, adjusting the smaller ends length to your desire.

15. Loop the ends of the tie around the back of the band and through the loop you made by crossing the tie.

16. Continue pulling through and tighten. You may have to recenter the tie on the band and adjust the tie part so it sits straight.

16. You may also have to hand stitch the back of the knot if the back of the tie wont stay in place.

This one I worked nicely so I didn't have to. :)

You're done!!! I hope that you had fun making it and that my directions were clear. Enjoy showing off your wonderful work on your little man- your best creation. :)