How to Make a Simple Neck Ruffle | Easy DIY Sewing Tutorial
A gathered neck ruffle is one of those accessories that instantly transforms a simple outfit into something theatrical, romantic, or vintage-inspired. Whether you're creating a Pierrot costume, a clown ensemble, a Renaissance look, or a whimsical fantasy outfit, this simple sewing project is quick to make and requires only basic sewing skills.
In this tutorial, I'll show you how I create my simple neck ruffle using cotton fabric, bias tape and a ribbon - short video tutorial below.
Materials You'll Need
- 3 cotton fabric strips (21.5 cm × 76.5 cm / 8½ × 30 in)
- 2 cm (¾ in) cotton bias tape
- Ribbon or cotton cord
- Sewing machine
- Serger(or zigzag stitch)
- Iron
- Large needle (darning needle)
Step 1 – Cut the Fabric
Cut three cotton fabric strips, each measuring 21.5 cm wide and 76.5 cm long.
These three pieces will become one continuous strip.
Step 2 – Sew the Strips Together
Place the fabric strips right sides together and sew the short ends together with serger.
Once sewn, you'll have one long fabric strip.
Step 3 – Finish the Edges
Overlock all four edges of the long strip.
This gives the ruffle a clean finish while keeping the fabric lightweight and soft.
Step 4 – Fold and Press
Fold the strip lengthwise in half and press it with an iron.
This creates a crisp center crease that will act as your guide in the next step.
Open the fabric back up.
Step 5 – Sew the Bias Tape
Lay the 2 cm cotton bias tape directly over the pressed center crease.
Sew along both long edges of the bias tape, creating a tunnel through the middle of the fabric.
Be careful not to sew the ends of the tunnel closed, as you'll need an opening for the ribbon or cord.
Step 6 – Tidy the Threads
Use a large needle to weave in all loose thread ends for a clean, professional finish.
Step 7 – Insert the Ribbon or Cord
Use darning needle and thread the ribbon/cord through the tunnel created by the bias tape.
Pull it all the way through until it extends from both ends.
Step 8 – Gather the Ruffle
Pull both ends of the ribbon or cord until the fabric gathers evenly.
Adjust the fullness to fit comfortably around your neck, then tie the ribbon or cord into a bow or knot.
Your simple neck ruffle is finished!
Create Your Own
This simple neck ruffle can be styled with Pierrot costumes, Victorian clothing, clown outfits, fantasy characters, Renaissance garments, and theatrical costumes.
If you'd rather skip the sewing, I also create handmade neck ruffles and costumes in my Motley Costumier shop, each crafted in my sewing studio in Latvia.
Happy sewing! ✂️🤍