How to Sew Belt Loops
@GloryAllen
@missmatti
@ProfesorPincushion
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Sewing belt loops is a straightforward process that adds a functional and stylish element to garments such as pants, skirts, and dresses.
Materials Needed:
- Fabric
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Scissors
- Pins
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Iron
Tips for Perfect Belt Loops:
- Reinforcement: For added strength, you can sew a small rectangle or a zigzag stitch at the top and bottom of each loop.
- Fabric Choice: Use the same fabric as the garment or a complementary fabric for a cohesive look.
- Placement: Ensure the belt loops are evenly spaced around the waistband for a balanced appearance.
1. Cut the Fabric Strips
- Determine the length and width of your belt loops. A common size is about 2-3 inches long and 1 inch wide before folding and sewing.
- Cut strips of fabric accordingly. For example, if your finished belt loop width is 1/2 inch, you’ll need to cut strips that are 1 inch wide plus seam allowance (1/4 inch on each side), making it 1.5 inches wide in total.
2. Fold and Press the Fabric Strips
- Fold each fabric strip lengthwise with the right side facing out.
- Press the fold with an iron to create a sharp crease.
- Open the fold, then fold each long edge toward the center crease, so they meet in the middle.
- Fold the strip in half again along the original crease, enclosing the raw edges inside.
- Press the folded strip to ensure it lies flat.
3. Sew the Fabric Strips
- Topstitch close to the open edge of the folded strip to secure it. This line of stitching will hold the strip in place and create a neat finish.
- Optionally, you can topstitch along the other folded edge for symmetry.
- Sew two parallel lines of stitching within the seam allowance. Place the first row approximately 1/8″ from the edge and the second row 1/4″ from the edge.
- Ensure you do not backstitch at the beginning or end; these stitches need to be easy to pull.
4. Cut the Belt Loops
- Cut the sewn strip into equal lengths for each belt loop. The number of belt loops you need depends on the garment’s design. For example, pants typically require five loops: one on each side seam, two on the front, and one in the back center.
5. Attach the Belt Loops to the Garment
- Position the belt loops on the garment. Mark the placement with tailor’s chalk or fabric marker.
- Pin the top and bottom of each loop to the garment, ensuring they are evenly spaced and aligned.
- Sew the top edge of each loop to the garment, using a straight stitch. Backstitch at the beginning and end for durability.
- Fold the loop down, aligning the bottom edge with the marked position on the garment.
- Sew the bottom edge of the loop in place, backstitching at the beginning and end.
6. Finish the Belt Loops
- Trim any excess threads.
- Press the belt loops flat with an iron for a crisp finish.
