A winter balaclava is an essential addition to every baby's and toddler's wardrobe. Unlike a classic hat, it protects not only the head but also the neck and ears from frost and wind.
And what's best? Sewing one at home is easier than you think!
In this detailed guide, we'll show you how to do it step by step.
Why sew a balaclava at home?
Sewing your own balaclava has several advantages:
- Perfect size – exactly according to your child's head circumference
- Quality materials – you know exactly what touches your baby's skin
- Unique design – colors and patterns of your choice
- Cost savings – homemade production is cheaper than buying in a store, often by hundreds of crowns!
- Joy of creation – a handmade piece has greater value, and you'll love it more
What you'll need to sew a balaclava
Material
- Main fabric: 0.5 m of thicker warm material (boiled wool, sweatshirt fabric, French terry, or fleece for the winter version). Note that it must stretch slightly like fleece or sweatshirt fabric
- Lining: 0.5 m of thinner knit fabric – here you can get creative
- Rib knit: approx. 20 cm for face trim
- Thread: in the color of the fabric
Tools and aids
- Sewing machine with a classic straight stitch – it's easier for sewing. You can also sew by hand!
- Fabric scissors
- Pins or clips
- Tailor's chalk or disappearing ink pen
- Measuring tape for head circumference
- Pattern (we recommend the North Pole pattern)
How to choose the right balaclava size
The correct size is crucial for your child's comfort. Measure the child's head circumference with a tape measure just above the eyebrows and ears. For the North Pole balaclava, the following sizes are available:
- 43 cm – newborns and small babies (0-3 months)
- 46 cm – older babies (3-9 months)
- 49 cm – toddlers (9-18 months)
- 52 cm – small children (1.5-2.5 years)
- 56 cm – preschoolers (2.5-3 years)
Tip: If the child is between sizes, choose the one where the child is snug! The balaclava must fit well, and a larger one will be a bit cumbersome when moving. I personally recommend sewing two. One smaller and one larger, and trying which one fits you better.
What material to choose for a winter balaclava
Sweatshirt fabric (French Terry)
An ideal choice for autumn and milder winter. Soft, breathable, and comfortable on the skin. The inside is lightly brushed, providing warmth without overheating.
Fleece or boiled wool
Perfect for really frosty days. Excellent insulation, lightweight, and quick-drying. Especially suitable for outdoor winter activities in the snow.
Knit with fleece (combination)
A professional solution – an outer layer of knit (nice appearance) and an inner layer of fleece (maximum warmth). The best choice for extreme winter.
Important: Always choose Oeko-Tex certified materials that are safe for children's skin.
Step by step: How to sew a North Pole balaclava
Step 1: Prepare the pattern and fabric
Print or lay out the paper pattern and check the control square (it should be exactly 10×10 cm). Cut out the pattern pieces in the chosen size.
Wash and iron the fabric before sewing – knit materials can shrink during the first wash.
Step 2: Cut out the pieces
Place the center balaclava piece on the side balaclava piece right sides together and sew. Pay attention to the rounded shapes. I recommend pinning it well. It's like sewing a hoodie. Sew it together with the second balaclava piece. Sew on an overlocker (sweatshirt fabric) or a regular machine (fleece, boiled wool)
Machine settings:
- Stitch length: 2.5-3 mm
- Slight thread tension
Step 3: Sew the inner layer
Sew the inner layer of the balaclava in the same way. No opening for turning out needs to be left.
Step 4: Attach the rib knit trim
Fold the rib knit in half lengthwise (right side out) and sew it to the face opening edge of the outer layer. Gently stretch the rib knit so it fits snugly. If you're sewing with a non-stretch material, you'll need to lengthen the trim.
Tip: The rib knit should be approximately 80-85% of the length of the face opening – this will ensure the balaclava stays in place and doesn't pinch.
Step 5: Join the layers
Place both balaclava pieces right sides together, one inside the other. Pin the trim between the layers and stretch it. Then sew. Turn the balaclava right side out.
Step 6: Finishing
Now, serge or overlock the bottom edge of the balaclava, and you're done! If you don't have an overlocker, try an overlock stitch or zigzag stitch.
Tips and tricks for a perfect balaclava
✂️ Sewing the rib knit
Divide the rib knit into quarters with pins, and do the same for the face opening edge. When sewing, connect the marks – this ensures even stretching.
🧵 Stitch choice
If you don't have an overlocker, use a combination on a regular machine: zigzag stitch + straight stitch close to each other. Then trim the excess fabric close to the stitch.
🎨 Decoration
You can decorate the balaclava with an appliqué, embroidery, or patch. Attach it before sewing the layers together – it will be easier.
⚠️ Common beginner mistakes
- Too tight rib knit – the balaclava pinches and leaves marks
- Wrong knit direction – the balaclava doesn't stretch correctly
- Insufficient seam allowance – the balaclava is too small after sewing
Recommended pattern: North Pole
For beginners and advanced sewers alike, we recommend the North Pole balaclava pattern. This pattern includes:
- ✅ Sizes 43-56 cm (from newborn to preschooler)
- ✅ Detailed step-by-step photo guide
- ✅ Tips for material selection and sewing the rib knit
- ✅ Instructions for a double balaclava with trim
- ✅ Precise markings for easy sewing
The pattern is designed so that the balaclava fits perfectly, doesn't pinch, and reliably protects from the cold. You'll be done in an hour!
Care for your sewn balaclava
To make your balaclava last all winter (and maybe even longer), follow these guidelines:
- Washing: Machine wash at 30-40°C, gentle cycle
- Drying: Lay flat to dry, do not tumble dry
- Ironing: Low temperature over a damp cloth or not at all
- Storage: Folded in a drawer, not hung (deformation)
Conclusion: Get sewing!
Sewing a children's winter balaclava is a great project for beginners. It's quick, simple, and you'll use the result every day. With a quality pattern like North Pole, you can sew a balaclava in an afternoon.
Don't hesitate and get started! And if you need advice, join our FB group Šibabi.cz, where you'll find support and inspiration from hundreds of other sewers.
Good luck with your sewing and enjoy the winter in warmth! ❄️🧣
