How to Make an Eye Patch: 11 Steps (With Pictures)

An eye patch is a basic accessory for handmade costumes. Although originally designed for medical purposes, today they are increasingly being used to complement costumes. The most common use for a patch is as a pirate costume accessory, but you can also get creative and put it on any character. Read on to learn how to make an eye patch and wear it on different occasions.

Steps

Part 1 of 3: Prepare the patch

Step 1. Get a piece of fabric

A traditional patch is made from black cloth. You can use any fabric you like. Canvas is a widely used material, but not so comfortable. If you are going to wear the patch for a long time, you could opt for a soft fabric like cotton.

You can also use cardboard instead of throwing it away

Step 2. Measure the dimensions

Use a ruler to measure one of your eyes and the surrounding area. Most eye patches extend from the eyebrows to the lower eye area. Measure from the eyebrow to the top of the cheekbone to calculate the vertical length. Next, measure from the center of the nose to the other side of the eye to calculate the horizontal length. Write these measurements down on a piece of paper.

After deciding how big you want your patch to be, measure and trace the dimensions on the fabric. You can use chalk to better see the outline.
Draw something like the moon from a sun lens over the rectangle. Make sure you get to the edges of the rectangle as you draw the outline.

Step 3. Cut the outline

Use sewing scissors to cut the patch. Once you've done this, use a lighter to burn off the frayed threads. Removing the frayed threads will make your patch look neater.

Step 4. Use cardboard for support

To make a stiff patch that looks great, you can place a piece of cardboard on the back. Put the patch on a clean piece of cardboard. Then, draw the outline of the patch on the cardboard with a pen. Now cut the cardboard.

Glue the patch to the cardboard using standard glue or a hot glue gun. Use more fabric than necessary to cover the cardboard completely, and fold the excess fabric towards the back of the cardboard so that the front of the patch looks perfect.
This is not necessary, but it might look more credible than just using fabric.

Part 2 of 3: Prepare the Rope

Step 1. Measure your head

Use a sewing tape measure to measure your head. Write down the dimensions. The rope should be a little longer, so that it reaches for joints and adjustments.

Step 2. Prepare the rope

Use black string for an authentic look. Measure the rope by the length you wrote down. Remember to leave an extra 2 inches (5.1 cm) for knots and adjustments.

If you don't have black rope, use what you have on hand. Darker colors will look better

Step 3. Use an elastic hair band

Some rubber bands could double as string for your patch. If you notice that it is too small, use an elastic headband. Cut the band that you are going to use so that it is in the shape of a rope.

You can also remove the elastic from an old pair of pants

Step 4. Try it on

Before attaching the string to the patch, try to try it on by using your hands to hold everything in place. This will help you assess whether the string is the correct length.

Make the necessary adjustments

Part 3 of 3: Assembling the Patch

Step 1. Drill a hole

You can make a hole to tie the string or glue it to the patch. If you decide to poke holes in the patch, use a sharp knife. Punch holes on the left and right side of the patch.

If you decide to use glue, prepare a hot glue gun or strong glue

Step 2. Attach the string

Tie a small, simple knot if you choose to make holes. Be sure to allow for the extra length needed to attach the string. Use a hot glue gun or strong glue to attach it. Glue the string behind the front of the patch to create a neater look.