The short answer: Three simple ways to tie a square chemo head scarf are the Free Spirit, tied at the back, the Classic Wrap, knotted at the front, and the Side Knot, twisted above one ear. Fold the scarf into a triangle or rectangle first, and let the weight of your arms hold it taut while you tie.
Learning how to tie a chemo head scarf can feel daunting at first, especially when you're tired and your arms ache. The good news is that a few simple styles will cover most days, and they get easier every time you try. Here are three of our favourites, all using a large square chemo head scarf, along with the tips we share most often.
If you'd like the quickest option of all, pop a soft hairband on, drape the scarf over your head and gather the ends into a ponytail. That's it. On days when you feel like trying something new, the styles below are a lovely place to start.
Tips to make tying easier
- Start when you have some quiet time. Make yourself a cup of tea and give yourself 20 minutes to play with a few styles. Try not to learn when you're in a rush or have visitors popping in and out, as it'll only feel frustrating.
- Let the weight of your arms do the work. There's no need to grip the scarf tightly. Once you've crossed the ends behind your head or tied a single knot, relax your arms and let their weight keep the fabric taut. This gives your arms a rest, which really helps if you've had breast surgery, and it gives you a moment to pause before the next step.
- Use a hairband if knots are a pain. Sweep the ends together and secure them like a ponytail. You can tighten the scarf whenever you need to, slip it off and on again without re-tying, and even make a bow by pulling the ends partway through the hairband.
Style 1: The Free Spirit
Fold your square scarf corner to corner to make a triangle, then fold the long edge over a few times.
Place the scarf on your head with the long folded edge across your forehead and the point at the back of your head.
Bring both ends behind your ears and tie them at the back of your head.
Style 2: The Classic Wrap
This style gives full coverage and stays comfortable all day. It works with a rectangular or square scarf. If you're starting with a square, fold it in half to make a rectangle or corner to corner to make a triangle. Both work well.
Place the scarf over your head so it's even on both sides, with the front edge sitting just above your eyebrows.
Cross the ends at the nape of your neck and pull them snug without making them too tight. Bring both ends up to the front of your head and tie a firm knot.
Tuck the loose ends under the scarf for a smooth, tidy finish.
Style 3: The Side Knot
If you'd like something softer and more relaxed, try the side knot.
Fold your scarf into a triangle and place it over your head with the long edge across your forehead.
Bring the ends round to one side of your head, just below your earlobe.
Tie them once, then twist the ends together and loop them into a small knot just above your ear. Secure the ends by tucking them partway through the middle of the twisted knot.
More ways to wear your scarf
If you'd like your scarf to stay put when your arms get tired, try wearing it over a soft cotton hat. Our guide to tying a hat and headscarf combination has five easy styles to try. If tying from scratch isn't for you right now, an easy-tie chemo scarf is already shaped to fit your head, so you just wrap the long ends round and knot them at the back. Our guide to easy-tie vs square head scarves can help you decide.
Not sure which scarf to start with? Our guide to choosing chemo head scarves covers fabrics, sizes and how to care for them.
Be patient with yourself. Everyone's fingers fumble at first, and it really does get easier with practice.
