Shemagh or Silk Wild Rags?

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Oct 14, 1998
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Perhaps my search skills are a little weak but, I didn't turn up any titles for these that were <5 years old.

Right now, I'm looking for a cloth Shemagh primarily for sun protection and to a lesser degree to deal with buzzing mosquitos around my head. I DO NOT WANT A CHINESE cloth version! I have tried the cheap Chinese/Rothco versions and I'm unimpressed primarily due to poor fabric quality but, I also don't really want tassels either.

Silk Wild Rags look like a good option too but, finding something in 100% silk that isn't tissue paper thin and less than $100 has been tough. Wyoming Traders is available locally for $32 but, they are super thin (~8mm?) so I question sun protection in the summer and warmth in the Winter.

I have seen some references to Merino Wool versions which might be a good option at ~$60. Based on my Wool sock experience, I tend to think Merino Wool would be a good option for Summer and definitely a good one for Winter.

Shemandanna from Opossum Pouch Soft Goods looks promising and is likely to be next purchase as I find the colors they offer and the perceived quality to be high without overcharging for a essentially a 43" Bandanna.

While JoAnna Fabrics might be a good source for some, I don't have access to a sewing machine to hem edges of raw fabric so, probably not the best option for me. If I could find a bolt of good silk, I would consider possibly taking a swing at making one myself.

What vendors should I consider purchasing from? Any recommendations for Silk vs. Merino Wool vs. Fabric options?

TIA,
Sid
 
Since you mentioned merino, there's NxN kerchiefs...but they're unpatterned and a little small (42" square). The quality is good, though.
 
I don't know what the shipping prices from Varusteleka is to where ever you live but I have their black merino wool version of shemagh (it doesn't have the shemagh pattern nor the decorative thingies) called square scarf and I really like it. They also have silk version wich is pretty pricey. I do have to say that the merino wool version is WARM and it's hard to wear even in the autumn. For winter or just staying warm it's perfect.
 
Thanks! I was looking at their website recently and wondered about those and their regular scarves. They are a bit spendy but, the quality appears to be pretty good.
 
What is the best material to use as a "sock" to hold the water crystals? I've tried the silk scarves and even wool versions - but they all seem to let the gel lump to one side or another.
 
Water crystals?
What is the best material to use as a "sock" to hold the water crystals? I've tried the silk scarves and even wool versions - but they all seem to let the gel lump to one side or another.
Water crystals? If I'm working with potted plants, I'm going to use something more appropriate.
 
It's the same whether it's for potted plants, diapers or gun desiccants - it's water absorbing gel
 
If you can find the right fabric, there are alteration tailors who can hem (and haw) and do most sewing tasks.
 
Yes, I'm looking to buy a used silk Saree from India and have someone local hem and sew me some silk 'wild rags'.
 
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