Q&A for How to Make a Sash

Start by measuring your waist. Then, use a scarf or measuring tape to tie a bow to your liking. Untie the bow and add that number to the waist measurement to get your length. Next, determine the height of your waistband. A longer waist person can wear a taller band more easily and the opposite is true for a short-waisted person (although wearing what you like and with confidence trumps almost any fashion rule).

Upload the text or image file you want to Cricut’s Design Space, then select “Mirror Image” on the Cricut and print out the design on Cricut iron-on material. Use your weeding tools to remove all non-design areas from the iron-on. Cut out the design and place it on your sash, then use the Cricut EasyPress mat to adhere the design to the sash. If you used a metallic iron-on, wait for it to cool before peeling off the plastic backing.

To tie a square knot, start by holding the left tie in your left hand and the right tie in your right. Cross the left over the right, then bring the left tie back up through the center. Pull the ends tight, then cross the right tie over the left. Bring the right tie under the left, then pull it through the loop you’ve created so it comes out on the left side. Pull the ends to carefully tighten the knot, but don’t tighten it so much that you lose the square in the middle. Tug the edges of the square to smooth it out, then arrange the ties so they fall neatly on either side.

Find a ribbon or fabric in a color that complements the dress. Depending on the size of the dress, the sash should be between 60 and 180 inches (152.4-457.2 cm) long. If you’re using ribbon, simply cut the ends in a fishtail shape to keep them from unraveling. If you’re using fabric, you’ll need to fold it over and sew the edges to get the desired shape, then tie it around your waist.

You can use a paintbrush to paint them on it, or use a fabric marker, or print words to paste or staple on it.

It's for both. It's actually optional for professors.

You can do many different things depending on your taste. You can sew another, smaller ribbon going over all of the main fabric, you can add glitter, write/draw on it, or add decals. The possibilities are endless.

You can purchase from a craft or hobby shop, online, or at a superstore like Walmart or Target.

Due to body shapes and different proportions, there is no simple answer. You would need to measure him to get the perfect length. Other than that, doing an estimate would be a good approach.

Use a match or lighter to carefully melt the ends to prevent fraying, but be cautious not to burn yourself.

No, fabric is common but not required. Alternatives can include: Satin ribbon or pre-made sash ribbon (ready width/finish); vinyl or faux leather for durability/water resistance; paper/cardstock or laminated paper for single-use/events; burlap or felt for rustic look (easy edges); or mesh/netting or organza for lightweight/transparent effect. Choose by budget, durability, drape, and finish. For wearable comfort pick soft, non-itchy materials (satin, rayon, polyester). For reusable/cleanable choose vinyl or faux leather. Add interfacing for structure if needed.

There is no strict limit, and the answer depends on sash size, weight, and look. For safety/durability, secure with stitching rather than glue for heavy pieces. If unsure, mock one practice sash first.

Yes, marker pens can work as a cheaper, no-heat alternative to iron-on letters, but results vary by pen type, fabric, and desired look. Use permanent fabric markers (not regular markers) for colorfastness and less bleeding. Pre-wash and iron fabric; stretch sash flat and secure with tape or a template. Sketch in pencil or use a stencil; fill slowly for even coverage. Let dry fully, then heat-set per marker instructions (usually iron with cloth or dryer) to improve durability. For bolder/raised letters, combine markers with fabric paint or appliqué.

Write letters so they read left-to-right on the side that faces people when worn (usually the front-left-to-front-right diagonal). For a sash worn over the right shoulder to the left hip, orient text top-left to bottom-right; for left shoulder to right hip, orient top-right to bottom-left. Center vertically across the sash width, size letters for readability (≈1–2" high for viewing at arm’s length), and mock up on paper or tape before marking.