What You Need to Sew a Kippah
A kippah is a small, rounded skullcap worn on the back of the head. The simplest version to sew is a six-panel design—six identical fabric pieces sewn together in a circle, then lined. You do not need advanced sewing skills or special equipment. A needle, thread, scissors, and fabric are enough to start.
Gather these materials before you begin: two pieces of fabric (one for the outer layer, one for the lining), each about 8 by 10 inches; thread that matches or complements your fabric; a needle or sewing machine; scissors; pins; and a measuring tape or ruler. Felt, cotton, linen, and velvet are all common choices. Many people use contrasting fabrics for the outer and inner layers so the kippah looks finished on both sides.
You will also need a pattern. The six-panel pattern is the easiest to draft yourself: it is straightforward six identical trapezoid shapes that taper slightly from bottom to top. If you prefer, you can read or print a kippah pattern from a sewing resource site—search for "six-panel kippah pattern" and you will find templates ready to trace.
Key Takeaways
- A six-panel kippah is the simplest design and requires only basic sewing skills, a needle, thread, and two pieces of fabric.
- Cut six identical trapezoid panels from both your outer fabric and your lining fabric, then sew them into two separate circles.
- Join the outer and lining circles with their right sides facing inward, leaving a small opening to turn the kippah right-side out.
- Hand-stitch the opening closed after turning, then add a non-slip grip or elastic band inside if you want the kippah to stay in place.
Cutting Your Fabric Panels
Start by making or printing your pattern. If you draft it yourself, draw one trapezoid on paper: the bottom edge should be about 2.5 inches wide, the top edge about 1.5 inches wide, and the height about 3 inches. This is your template. Trace or pin this shape onto your outer fabric six times, leaving a small gap between each piece so you have room to cut.
Cut out all six pieces from the outer fabric. Then repeat the process with your lining fabric—cut six identical trapezoids from that as well. You now have twelve panels total: six for the outside of the kippah and six for the inside. Lay them out in two separate piles so you do not mix them up.
Add a small seam allowance—about one-quarter inch—around each piece as you cut. This extra fabric is what you will sew into when you join the panels. If your pattern already includes a seam allowance, you do not need to add more.
Sewing the Outer Panels Together
Take your six outer-fabric panels and arrange them in a circle, with the narrow ends pointing inward. Pin two panels together along one of the long edges, with the right sides (the pretty sides) facing each other. The wrong sides will be on the outside for now—that is correct.
Sew along the pinned edge using a running stitch if you are hand-sewing, or a straight stitch on a sewing machine. Use small, even stitches about one-eighth inch long. When you reach the end, tie off your thread and remove the pins. Sew a second panel to the other side of the first panel the same way, then continue until all six panels form a complete circle. The last panel will overlap slightly with the first one—sew them together to close the circle.
Press the seams flat with your fingers or an iron. You now have a shallow dome shape made from your outer fabric. Set this aside.
Sewing the Lining Panels Together
Repeat the exact same process with your six lining-fabric panels. Pin them together in a circle, sew them with right sides facing inward, and press the seams flat. You now have two identical dome shapes—one outer, one lining. Both should look the same from the outside and have their seams on the inside.
Try the outer dome on your head to check the fit. It should sit on the back of your head and cover the area where a kippah is traditionally worn. If it is too loose or too tight, you can adjust the width of your trapezoid panels and cut new ones. Most kippahs are about 6 to 7 inches across the widest part.
Joining the Outer and Lining Layers
Place the outer dome and the lining dome together with their right sides facing each other—the pretty sides are now touching, and the seams are on the outside. Pin around the entire open edge where the two domes meet. This is the bottom rim of the kippah.
Sew around this pinned edge using a running stitch or straight stitch, but leave a gap of about 2 inches unsewn. This opening is how you will turn the kippah right-side out. Sew carefully and keep your stitches small and even. When you reach the 2-inch gap, tie off your thread and stop.
Trim the seam allowance around the entire rim to about one-eighth inch. This reduces bulk and helps the kippah lie flat. Be careful not to cut through your stitches.
Turning and Closing the Kippah
Reach through the 2-inch opening and gently pull the kippah inside out. The right sides of your fabric are now on the outside, and all the seams are hidden inside. The kippah should look finished and neat. Gently push out the edges with your fingers so they are smooth and even.
Fold the raw edges of the opening inward about one-quarter inch on each side, and pin them closed. Hand-stitch the opening shut using a ladder stitch (also called an invisible stitch), which closes the gap so neatly that the seam is almost invisible. If you are not familiar with a ladder stitch, a straightforward running stitch works fine—it will be slightly visible but still neat.
Press the finished kippah gently with an iron on a low setting if your fabric allows it. This helps it hold its shape.
Adding Grip or Elastic (Optional)
A kippah will stay in place better if you add a non-slip grip or elastic band inside the rim. Sew a strip of non-slip fabric (the kind used on the bottom of socks or rugs) around the inside edge of the kippah, or sew a thin elastic band into the seam where the outer and lining layers meet. Either option helps the kippah stay put without being uncomfortable.
If you did not add elastic during construction, you can hand-stitch a strip of non-slip material to the inside rim after the kippah is finished. This takes only a few minutes and makes a real difference in how well it stays on your head.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sew a kippah by hand, or do I need a sewing machine?
You can absolutely sew a kippah entirely by hand. A running stitch is strong enough for all the seams. A sewing machine is faster and produces more even stitches, but it is not required. Hand-sewn kippahs are traditional and look beautiful.
What fabric works best for a kippah?
Felt, cotton, linen, and velvet are all good choices. Felt is easiest because it does not fray and does not require a lining. Cotton and linen are breathable and comfortable. Velvet looks elegant. Avoid very stretchy fabrics like jersey knit, which will not hold the dome shape well.
How do I make the kippah bigger or smaller?
Adjust the width of your trapezoid panels. Wider panels create a larger kippah; narrower panels create a smaller one. You can also add or remove panels—an eight-panel kippah is rounder and slightly larger than a six-panel one. Test your fit before cutting all your fabric.
What if my kippah is too floppy and does not stay on my head?
Add a non-slip grip or elastic band inside the rim. You can also make the dome slightly deeper by increasing the height of your trapezoid panels. A deeper dome naturally sits more securely on the back of the head.
Can I decorate my kippah after sewing it?
Yes. You can embroider designs on the outer fabric before you sew the panels together, or add embroidery, beads, or trim after the kippah is finished. Many people personalize their kippahs with initials, symbols, or patterns that reflect their heritage or interests.