Berets have been everywhere lately, and with so many affordable options available, they make an ideal canvas for a simple DIY. This tutorial shows how to embroider a friendly “hello” (or any short word or design) onto a basic beret to create a unique accessory. Follow the steps below to make your own personalized piece.
Materials Needed
- Beret (any inexpensive wool or felt beret works well)
- Embroidery floss in your chosen color
- Embroidery needle (or any needle with an eye large enough for the floss)
- Scissors
How to Create an Embroidered DIY Beret
If you prefer a guide rather than freehand lettering, use a basic embroidery transfer method or follow a step-by-step tutorial on how to embroider designs on clothing. For this project the lettering was done freehand, but a guide can help keep spacing and style consistent.
Begin by threading your needle with embroidery floss. For a bolder, more visible line, double the thread (use two strands or fold the floss). Tie a triple knot at the end of the floss so the stitches won’t pull through, then push the needle up from the inside of the beret where you want to start the text or design.
Work with short, even stitches to form each letter or line in your design. Take your time to maintain consistent spacing and stitch length—this produces a cleaner, more professional-looking result. When the word or design is complete, secure the floss on the inside of the beret with a triple knot and trim any excess thread close to the knot. Your beret is now ready to wear.
Take it further
If lettering isn’t your style, try a small line drawing, a simple shape, or a minimal face motif instead. A tiny embroidered illustration can be equally striking and gives you lots of room to personalize the placement and scale. For inspiration, you can create or print a small face line drawing or any simple outline and transfer it lightly to the beret before stitching.
Crafting Emma Spear / Photography Brittni Mehlhoff
What do you think of the beret trend? Are you a fan, or have you moved on already? Share your thoughts and any ideas you’d add to personalize a beret.