The shemagh scarf is relatively unknown outside of the Middle East, where it is routinely encountered, and to a lesser degree, among military personnel and bushcraft enthusiasts.
Be that as it may, those that know it, use it for a million and one different things. A shemagh scarf can be used to bind a wound, carry loose items, can be used as a lightweight blanket, and for so much else besides.
Another thing a shemagh can be used for is a makeshift pillow. Here’s how to do just that.
Making a Pillow from a Shemagh Scarf
First, lay your shemagh scarf out on a clean, dry surface. They might vary in size but yours is probably something like 40” square.
If you have some spare clothing, you’re in luck. Ball some up and place them in the middle of the shemagh.
Then, fold the corners of the shemagh over on themselves towards the middle of the bundle, then turn the whole thing over and use the unfolded side as your pillow – it’s as easy as that.
If you don’t have spare clothes, you need to use what nature gave you.
There are two easy ways to go about this. You can use either dry leaves or dry grasses, and the latter are better.
It is absolutely imperative that you use only dry leaves or grass as your shemagh’s cotton will absorb and hold onto whatever moisture is present, which will not only be uncomfortable for you while you sleep, but which can result in the growth of mold.
So, make sure you have some dry grasses or leaves, bunch them up, drop them in the middle of the shemagh scarf, and fold the whole thing up as previously indicated.
Just be careful with this makeshift pillow as if you toss and turn a lot in the night, it will come undone when made in the manner described.
If you need a thinner pillow, just fold the shemagh over on itself four times without stuffing it. This will leave you with a thin 12” square piece of cotton cloth that can increase your comfort in the night.
Another note: you can also use your shemagh scarf as a lightweight blanket if the night is cool – that’s just one more use for it.
Just be aware that it’s not going to provide a lot of warmth, so don’t expect to rely completely on your shemagh if you’re going to be abroad in an area with cold weather.
Don’t Have a Shemagh Scarf Yet?
If you landed on this page and you don’t have a shemagh scarf yet, it’s easy to change that and these are not particularly expensive pieces of gear to begin with. For a few dollars you can get a new one over at Fatigues Army Navy.
You’ll also find a whole bunch of other camping and survival gear on their website, including cookware, hiking gear, and other equipment for outdoor sports. Visit their website and get in touch with them directly if you have any questions.
