Fascinating Feather Fascinators

DIY Project: Feather Fascinators

Fascinators are fun and easy to make and are a totally unique accessory. Fascinators have been worn by stylish women since the 1800s, but have made quite a comeback in modern times. Many of today's fascinators are reminiscent of those worn in the 40s and 50s.

A woman sporting a feather fascinator circa 1953

image (http://hereiam.typepad.com/the_pesky_bombolino)

I made my first fascinator in 2008 after watching an episode of Project Runway and seeing a contestant, Kenley Collins, wearing her homemade feather creations inspired by 1940s calendar girls. After making it, it soon became my favorite accessory and I started seeing them in mainstream stores in the following months.

Kenley Collins

image msnbc.com

Today my fascinator collection has grown and whenever I wear one out, people always ask where I got it and are always shocked to learn that I make them myself. The next question is always "How?" Well, lucky blog readers, today I'm going to show you how!

What you'll need:

-hair clips (big/wide ones are best)

-feathers

-hot glue gun (if you're likely to burn yourself, tacky glue works fine as well)

-scrap fabric (i like to use felt)

-sequins and/or rhinestones

-old brooches, buttons, broken jewelry, etc.

Step 1:

cut a tear drop shape out of your fabric. The size of your fabric base will determine the size of the finished product. This is going to be a relatively small one. My largest fascinator has a base that measures 4.5" by 3.5" at the widest points. Keep in mind that the feathers will extend a bit off the edges, especially on the back. As far as fabric choice, pretty much anything you have lying around works; however, I would advise against especially flimsy fabrics as they wont hold their shape well.

Step 2:

Arrange and glue the feathers on to the fabric piece. Start with large feathers at the back and layer smaller feathers in the front. Be sure to cover all edges of the fabric with feathers so none of it shows when it's in your hair.

Feather choice is one of the most important aspects of this project. Most craft stores carry bags of feathers for around $3 a bag. I prefer natural looking feathers, but they are also available in technicolor varieties.

One important thing to keep in mind when choosing feathers is type of feather. Some feathers mimic actual bird feathers and make excellent fascinators, while others are more of "boa fluff."

this is boa fluff. Can you tell I'm disgusted by it?

When you try to make a fascinator out of boa fluff, it turns out like this. Ew.

Step 3:

Glue your hair clip to the back of the fascinator, Make sure that the part you want for the front of the fascinator (typically the small end) corresponds with the front part of the clip (in this case the wide end)

I have seen other people stitch on the clips or glue loops of ribbons down to put clips through. Feel free to experiment with these methods, but I like gluing because it's easiest.

Step 4:

Personalize it! This is the most fun and creative part. I chose to use an old locket and some green rhinestones on this one, but you can really let your imagination run wild. Just avoid anything too heavy, because it will weigh the fascinator down and it won't stay in your hair.

Step 5:

Wear and look fabulous! Don't forget to send me photos of your finished product. I'd love to see!

Cost: <$5

Difficulty: Easy