The USA is turning 250 years old this July, which is such an exciting milestone! To celebrate in a big way, I decided to make some big and bold star spangled headwear for myself and my family. Just as I did with this oversized floral wreath project, I reached for my Oly-Fun Fabric to create beautiful faux blooms that are vibrant and full. These fabric flowers are easy to make and perfect for decorating headwear with!
Why Oly-Fun is perfect for this project
If you’ve never worked with Oly-Fun from Fairfield World, you’re in for a treat. This polypropylene fabric is lightweight, cut-friendly, and — best of all — it doesn’t fray. That means no hemming, no sealing edges, and no stress. For dimensional fabric flowers, it’s practically magic: the material holds its shape beautifully once layered and gathered, giving you full, fluffy blooms that actually stay put.
For these patriotic headpieces, I reached for three colors that practically scream summer celebration: Cherry Pop (a bold, saturated red), Blueberry (a deep, rich navy), and Snow White (crisp and clean). Together they’re a red-white-and-blue statement you can wear.
WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE STAR SPANGLED HEADWEAR
- Oly-Fun in Cherry Pop, Blueberry, and Snow White
- Hat blank of your choice
- Headband blanks
- Scissors or rotary cutter
- Ruler or cutting mat
- Needle & thread
How to make the carnation-inspired flowers
These blooms are inspired by carnations — layered, ruffled, and wonderfully full. They’re easier to make than they look, and because Oly-Fun doesn’t fray, the petals have a naturally finished look right off the scissors. Check out this short video tutorial for the complete instructions:
Two Ways to Wear It
Hat vs. headband — which to make?
I made both, and honestly? I love them equally for different reasons. The hat is a true showstopper — perfect for parades and outdoor celebrations where you want to make an entrance. I added a cluster of all three colors (Cherry Pop, Blueberry, and Snow White) to the front brim, and the flowers sit beautifully against the fabric.
The headband blank is a quicker project and more versatile for everyday wear or for making multiples. A row of small carnation flowers across the band looks adorable and festive without being over the top. It’s also a fantastic project to make with kids — the simple technique is easy little hands can help with.
Ready to make your own Star Spangled Headwear?
These patriotic headpieces are quick to make, budget-friendly, and genuinely fun. Whether you’re heading to a Fourth of July cookout, a parade, or just want to add some festive flair to a summer outfit, these Oly-Fun flowers deliver serious style with very little effort. Grab your Cherry Pop, Blueberry, and Snow White, fire up the glue gun, and get crafting!