How to Sew a Cozy Storybook Hooded Cloak (Beginner Friendly)

If you’re looking for a simple, cozy sewing project—especially one that feels like it belongs in a fairy tale—this DIY felt hooded cloak is a favorite in our home. I’ve made them for my own kids and friend’s kids (and even a mini one for a beanie baby!) and they always turn out great. It’s easier than it sounds, and once you’ve made one, you’ll want to make more in every color.

What You’ll Need:

• A large piece of felt
• String and a marker
• Scissors
• Pins
• Sewing machine (or needle and thread)
• Optional: additional fabric for trim or lining, rope, button, cloak clasp

Step 1: Measure for Cloak Length

Start by measuring from the person’s shoulders to where you want the cloak to end—usually just below the knees. This will be your cloak length.

Step 2: Prepare Your Fabric

You will need a piece of felt (or fabric of your choosing) that is twice as long as it is wide. When folded in half it should make a perfect square. The length and width of this square should be at least as long as your cloak length.

Step 3: Mark and Cut the Cloak Shape

Use a piece of string to draw your cloak’s rounded shape:

1. Mark your cloak length on the string, and add a few inches as a buffer.
2. Clip or pin one end of the string to the folded corner of your felt square.
3. Wrap the other end around a marker up to your length mark.
4. Keeping the string taut, draw a curved line from one edge of the square to the other, creating a quarter-circle shape.
5. Now, mark a neck hole. For younger kids, I use about 5″; for older kids or adults, go up to 6”. Again, pin one end of the string to the folded corner and draw a second smaller arch.

Carefully cut along both arches. (I usually cut just inside the line to avoid any visible marker.)

Step 4: Make the Hood

A hooded cloak without a hood would just be a cloak. So lets add a hood! To make the hood, first measure the neck opening you just cut and add about ½ inch for seam allowance.

1. Take a piece of fabric and fold it over so that your cut will yield 2 hood pieces.
2. Mark the neck opening length along the edge of your fabric—this will become the base of the hood.
3. Use the hood of a hoodie or jacket as a reference, or sketch your own:
   • On the left side, draw a straight line—this will be the front opening of the hood.
   • On the top and right side, sketch a gently curved shape that tapers down to meet the other end of your neck measurement.

Cut out the hood shape, then sew the top and back seams (right sides together) to form the hood.

Step 6: Optional Edge Finish

You can leave the edges raw (felt doesn’t fray), but I like a cleaner finish:

1. Cut a long rectangle of coordinating fabric, slightly longer than the hood opening.
2. Fold it in half lengthwise and sandwich the edge of the hood opening between the layers.
3. Pin it in place and sew along the edge to secure it.

Step 5: Attach the Hood to the Cloak

Pin the base of the hood around the neckline of your cloak, right sides together. Sew the hood to the cloak using a straight stitch.

Step 7: Add a Closure

You can buy a cloak clasp online for a no-sew option or make your own like I did:

• Sew a button on one side of the cloak.
• Take a small piece of rope or cord, loop it around the button, and position it on the opposite side.

• Once you like the placement, pin in place and sew the rope down securely with a few strong back and forth passes of stitches.

Optional: Add Handles for Kids

To give your kids more control over their hooded cloak while they play:

• Take two short pieces of rope.
• Sew them on the inside edges of the cloak (parallel with the edge), about waist-level or wherever their hands naturally fall.
• Secure them well with two rows of stitching.

These act like hidden handles, letting little ones hold and maneuver their hooded cloak easily as they walk, run, or twirl.

Tips and Ideas to Customize

• For a structured hood, add a thicker lining or stabilizer to help it hold shape and create a dramatic drape.
• Add a ruffled collar by pinning a ruffle or gathered trim between the hood and the cloak before stitching.
• Decorate with lace along the edges or bottom hem for extra charm and whimsy.
• Try different colors and sizes—once you’ve made one, you’ll want to make a whole wardrobe!

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Final Thoughts

This project sounds more complicated on paper than it really is—once you get started, it’s all very intuitive. I’ve made these cloaks in all sizes and they never fail to wow the recipient. Whether you’re heading out for a walk in the woods or playing dress-up at home, there’s just something magical about a handmade hooded cloak.

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If you’re a fan of the Cottagecore Aesthetic checkout my Cottagecore kitchen inspo board here!