I am looking for a pattern(s) for non-crocheted snoods. These would cover the entire head (not just a bun cover). I don't like the look of the crocheted ones and have seen some nice cotton and velvet ones and would like to make some. Please let me know if you can help. Thanks!!

-- Leah (cavie77@yahoo.com), April 06, 2001

Answers

Hi Leah ~

I don't know if this is what you are looking for. I have a book on Elizabethan costuming, and there is a form of headgear in there that SOUNDS like what you have in mind.

Basically, it is a largish circle of fabric gathered into a straight band. For a larger one, that hangs further down the neck, they recommend a circle 20-24 inches. For a closer fitting one, they say the circle should be about 18-20 inches. Cut the band 6-8 inches wide and for the length, the measurement of the head plus 2 inches.

Sew the ends of the band together, then fold it in half. Zigzag the outer edge of the circle, then gather it into the raw edge of the band. The seam goes inside when you are wearing this cap or snood (they call it a muffin cap or caul). Your hair goes inside the hat too. I guess you use the standard 5/8" seams.

Personally, I would modify the band so that I could put a little elastic into it (which would be worn at the base of the skull where the loose part drapes down over it). With elastic in it, you'd be able to get it on and off easier, and it would probably stay on better. I wouldn't make the whole band elastic because it would drive me nuts to wear that all day -- too much pressure around the head.

I can think of two methods to put elastic in the band. Probably the easiest would be to cut the band even longer, maybe a couple of inches, and make casings for the elastic in the fabric of the band.

-- Joy F (So.Central Wisconsin) (CatFlunky@excite.com), April 07, 2001.