This DIY Scarf Will Be Your New Favorite Travel Accessory

We found the fashionable alternative to the money belt: this DIY no-sew security scarf that anyone can make.

DIY No-Sew Scarf With Secret Pocket
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The last thing you want to worry about when traveling is getting pick-pocketed or forgetting where you stashed your money and important documents. This DIY no-sew scarf takes that stress away. You can make this security scarf out of an existing scarf — we started with a scarf that measured 84 inches long — or from any fabric of your choosing, even an old T-shirt could work! It will keep your valuables in a spot that thieves won't expect or won't be able to access without you noticing. Plus, it's fashionable, and you can make one (or multiple!) in the fabric and color and pattern of your choosing. One of these scarves would make an incredibly thoughtful gift for the traveler in your life, too.

Follow these steps to make your own.

DIY Hidden Pocket Scarf, Step 2

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Materials Needed

  • existing scarf or fabric of choice
  • iron-on hem tape
  • iron
  • ironing pad
  • scissors
  • zipper
  • cutting mat
  • rotary tool

DIY Hidden Pocket Scarf, Step 3b

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Attach the iron-on hem tape on one end of the fabric into a loop so you'll have an infinity scarf.

DIY Hidden Pocket Scarf, Step 4b

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Fold over the fabric and iron.

DIY Hidden Pocket Scarf, Step 6c

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Use the rotary tool to cut fringe about six inches long on the outer edges of the scarf. If you prefer a simpler look, feel free to leave off the fringe step.

DIY Hidden Pocket Scarf, Step 8a

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Prepare to add a zipper that measures about nine inches long.

DIY Hidden Pocket Scarf, Step 8c

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Cut a slit in the top fold of the fabric that's the length of the zipper.

DIY Hidden Pocket Scarf, Step 9a

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Attach iron-on hem tape to the zipper and iron in place.

DIY Hidden Pocket Scarf, Step 9b

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Remove the backing to the tape.

DIY Hidden Pocket Scarf, Step 10

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Adhere zipper to the fabric.

DIY Hidden Pocket Scarf, Step 11

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Iron zipper in place.

DIY Hidden Pocket Scarf, Step 12

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Along the inside of the fabric, attach three strips of iron-on hem tape that are about six inches each on the right side of the zipper to form a pocket. If you'd like a larger or smaller pocket, adjust the length of the hem tape.

DIY Hidden Pocket Scarf, Step 13

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Iron in place and then remove the tape backing.

DIY Hidden Pocket Scarf, Step 14

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Fold the top layer of fabric over the adhesive and iron again, forming a seamless pocket.

DIY blue-and-white security scarf

DIY Hidden Pocket Scarf

Keep money and important travel documents safe and secure in this DIY no-sew travel scarf you can make in just a few easy steps.

Photo by: Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Andy Vinson, Loch & Key Productions

Want more travel crafts?

DIY Travel Photo Map
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