Winter is well and truly here and if you haven’t already, it is certainly time to be digging out your winter woolies and getting geared up for the colder months.

If you’re finding, that last year’s winter wardrobe just isn’t what it used to be, how about considering the merits of a handmade scarf to add colour and class to any outfit and keep the chill of winter under control.

Be it silk, woolen, lace, knitted, crocheted or sewn, handmade scarves are just one of a number of handcrafted goodies enjoying a return to popularity. No longer the sole domain of the over 70s, these stylish pieces are turning up everywhere and on everyone from politicians to popstars.

And it’s not just the creative few who get to indulge. If you’re not too keen on the idea of making your own, handmade scarves are readily available in a variety of stores and are a particular favourite at local markets - a great source for creative women.

So why do we love them? SheInspires takes a look at the reasons behind the love affair with the humble handmade scarf.

1. Unique. Offering differing length, width, colour and pattern options, handmade scarves are available in a great number of styles and patterns, in fact if you’re making it yourself the sky is the limit. Different trimmings, intricate lace work and additions like detailed beading or sparkling sequins sets these scarves apart.

2. Versatile. Good in winter or summer, handmade scarves can be worn in a number of ways to add that little something to any look. Popular as head scarves in a celebrity return to bohemian-chic, handmade scarves can be adapted to suit a variety of looks and are popular tied at the neck, hip, in the hair, and around the head, in fact anywhere you can tie it seems to do the trick.

3. Make your own. For those of you making your own scarves, the experience can often be therapeutic and rewarding, as it gives you a chance to express your creativity and individuality. For those of you not quite there yet, there are a number of courses being run both on and off-line showing you how to get started with scarf patterns and designs, so get into it.

4. A touch of colour. Particularly in the colder months, people seem to stick to darker browns, blacks and greys for their day-to-day wear. The addition of a handmade scarf can bring a dull tired wardrobe back to life and transform everyday looks into something stylish and extraordinary. So bust off the winter blues with the addition of a hand crafted scarf to add luxury, style, colour, texture, and playfulness to virtually any outfit.

5. Works of art. Hand-crafted scarves are more than your typical run of the mill scarf. Often unique in their design, the array of colours and fabrics and intricate trimmings like silk, or satin ribbon also makes these originals beautiful and intricate works of art.

6. Trendy. Be it winter or summer, these colourful concoctions have become the ultimate glorified item in the fashion world. Rarely seen without her head scarf, Nicole Ritchie is leading the charge of young A-listers embracing the renaissance of the handmade scarf.

7. Great gift idea. Popular no matter what the season, a handmade scarf is a great gift that always fits. With so many colours, styles and fabrics to pick from, handmade numbers can be customized to suit the individual. So whether you’re buying it or making it yourself, a gorgeous hand crafted scarf makes a perfect gift that will be treasured forever.

8. Express yourself. Handcrafted scarves are a fun way to get creative and express yourself. The unique colours, designs and fabrics like silk, pashmina, wool and velvet mean that your individuality can shine on through. The variety of colours, fabrics and trims means that you can have a different scarf to suit every special occasion.

So whether it’s colour, creativity or gift ideas that you’re after, the handmade scarf is a perfect addition to any outfit.

But wait, there's more!

All inspired? Check out these blogs for great scarf design ideas and knitting patterns:

Handmade Winter Scarves...

Get great ideas for your scarfs! This blog is full of creative and new ideas on making your scarfs into a stylish masterpiece. See the different variations of knitting that can be used for these unique creations. Experiment with your scarfs and find something that fits your style.

Click here to go to Kid Independent

All The Way Around Cowl

Mix up your scarfs by adding in a cowl that goes all the way around. Keep your neck extra warm during these cold winter months. Find the pattern and materials you will need to make your very own cowl. You can make this easy design in no time!

Go to Whip Up for more articles

Free Knitting Patterns

Experiment with new knitting patterns online! This blog provides a variety of different knitting stitches that you can try out. Have fun creating new scarfs with your new knitting patterns and come up with something your friends will be jealous of.

Visit The Blog Hub to find more articles

Crochet Flower Scarf

Try out making this fun crochet flower scarf for yourself. This scarf will be perfect for the winter months and then still look great for those cool spring nights as well. Start making yours today!

Click here to go to Being So Well

One Hour Scarf

Whip up a handmade gift in no time. Save your time and crochet a scarf in an hour. They will make great presents or can be great to add to your own wardrobe. In only an hour you could make up loads of scarfs in all different colors. Make one for all of your friends and family.

Go to the Laughing Purple Goldfish Design for more articles