Gator (neck warmer) instructions:

These directions are very detailed, and take longer to read than to sew a gator! If you still have questions, please email me at mary.skelton@gmail.com .

Directions:

60 inches of 60″ wide stretch fleece will make nine gators, so purchase fleece in multiples of 60 inch increments. (Many fabric stores have given a discount if it’s not on sale, when told about the project!) Choose tan, grey or black. With 2 yards of fabric still folded in half as it came off the bolt, cut across the length every 20 inches, then cut each of these strips into thirds, making nine 20×20” squares. Fold each square in half so it measures 20×10″, checking to see that this folded rectangle stretches the long way.

First seam: Zigzag stitch the 20″ seam close to the edges, creating a long tube. (NOTE: This is important — this first seam must stretch, as this is how they gator is pulled on over the head. If you cannot stretch the tube around your head, rip out the seam and refold the other way.)

Second seam: To sew the seam that closes the tube (this vertical seam will be located at the back of the head): turn the tube right side out, and then turn tube inside out just half way, lining up the raw edges and seams. Zigzag stitch around the tube close to the edge, to within 4″ of where this seam starts, leaving an opening. Pull all the fabric through the opening, turning the gator right side out.

Third seam: Turn the remaining 4″ raw edges under, and straight-stitch opening closed, very close to the edge. Turn right side out. Insert a postcard or a note of thanks and encouragement, if you like.
Sewing Tips:

-For the second seam, you may find it easier to turn the tube right side out, as instructed above, then place right sides together, matching seams, and begin stitching around the tube, an inch before the seam. This does create alot of bulk in the opening you’ll have, so your opening will be greater than 4″ which is fine.

-I also found that stretching the fabric for the first seam eliminates the critical need to zigzag stitch. The other two seams can be straight stitched as well.

-A large rotary cutting blade can go through 4 layers of fleece with no problem. If you have a friend who quilts, you might ask to borrow one.

-There is also no need to back stitch, as long as your stitch length isn’t too long.

If you have any other suggestions, please email me at mary.skelton@gmail.com
Insert a postcard or a note of thanks and encouragement, if you like.

My son-in-law wearing a gator

Sewing Tips:

– -A large rotary cutting blade can go through 4 layers of fleece with no problem. If you have a friend who quilts, you might ask to borrow one.

-There is also no need to back stitch, as long as your stitch length isn’t too long.

If you have questions, or any other suggestions, please email me at mary@thegatorproject.org.

Illustrated instructions