How to Make a LARP Tabard

* 2 yards of fabric (your choice of color and weight)

* 1 yard of lining fabric (optional, but recommended for added durability)

* 1 package of bias tape

* Thread

* Scissors

* Sewing machine (or needle and thread)

* Pins

* Measuring tape

* Iron

Instructions

1. Cut the fabric.

- Cut two rectangles of fabric, each measuring 36 inches wide by 48 inches long.

- If you are using lining fabric, cut two rectangles of lining fabric the same size.

2. Sew the side seams.

- With right sides together, sew the side seams of the front and back pieces, using a 1/2-inch seam allowance.

- Trim the seam allowances and press them open.

3. Sew the shoulder seams.

- With right sides together, sew the shoulder seams of the front and back pieces, using a 1/2-inch seam allowance.

- Trim the seam allowances and press them open.

4. (Optional) Sew the lining fabric.

- If you are using lining fabric, sew the lining pieces together in the same way that you sewed the outer fabric pieces.

- Trim the seam allowances and press them open.

5. Attach the lining to the outer fabric.

- With right sides together, place the lining inside the outer fabric.

- Sew around the edges of the tabard, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.

- Leave a 4-inch opening in one of the side seams for turning.

6. Turn the tabard right side out.

- Carefully turn the tabard right side out through the opening in the side seam.

- Use a point turner or other blunt object to help push out the corners.

7. Press the tabard.

- Press the tabard flat, making sure to press the seams open.

8. Sew the bias tape around the edges of the tabard.

- Cut the bias tape into 1-inch strips.

- Starting at the center front of the tabard, sew the bias tape around the edges, overlapping the strips by 1/4 inch.

- Mitre the corners of the bias tape so that they lie flat.

9. Add any desired embellishments.

- You can add any desired embellishments to your tabard, such as appliques, embroidery, or trim.

Tips

* Choose a fabric that is durable and easy to care for.

* If you are using a lightweight fabric, you may want to interface it to add body.

* If you are not confident in your sewing skills, you can have the tabard made for you by a professional seamstress.

* A tabard is a great way to add some personality to your LARP character. You can choose a fabric and embellishments that reflect your character's personality and background.