Sewing with hook and loop tape, universally known as VELCRO®, can sometimes be a test of patience due to broken needles and skipped stitches. However, when handled correctly, it serves as an excellent alternative to buttons, zippers, and snaps, offering ease of use, especially for kids and individuals with limited mobility. In this guide, we share expert tips to make sewing with VELCRO® a breeze, promising a stress-free experience.
Mood has a selection of sew-on and adhesive VELCRO® to suit all your creative needs, but this post will predominantly focus on the sew-on variety.
Identifying the Sides of VELCRO®
Before delving into the sewing process, it’s essential to distinguish between the two sides of VELCRO® – the hook side and the loop side. The hook side is harder, while the loop side is soft and fuzzy. Knowing the differentiation will guide you in correctly aligning the tape on your fabric.
Recommended Supplies for Sewing with VELCRO®
Before starting, ensure you have all the necessary supplies on hand:
- Sew-on VELCRO® (avoid adhesive variants as they can damage your sewing machine)
- Universal needle (size 14 or 16) or a denim needle
- Strong polyester thread
- Zipper foot
- Wonder Clips or temporary washable adhesive
- Chalk or a marking pen
How to Sew VELCRO® on a Sewing Machine
Utilizing a sewing machine can make the process quicker and more streamlined. Here’s how you can go about it:
- Test on a scrap piece of fabric to avoid mistakes on your final piece.
- Adjust thread tension as needed and choose a thread color matching your VELCRO® to disguise any potential errors.
- Use a narrow VELCRO® strip and trim it to the required size.
- Mark the region where the VELCRO® will be placed using chalk or a marking pen.
- Secure the VELCRO® using Wonder Clips or a temporary washable adhesive, avoiding pins as they are challenging to maneuver through the tape.
- Opt for a zigzag or blind hem stitch to retain VELCRO®’s flexibility while sewing.
How to Sew VELCRO® by Hand
If you prefer sewing by hand or find it necessary for specific projects, here is how you can do it:
- Secure the VELCRO® on the fabric using adhesive or clips.
- Use a matching thread to sew around the edges neatly.
- Stitch in a box pattern and create an “X” through the tape to hold it in place effectively.
- For broader VELCRO® strips, follow a pattern of sewing length to width initially, followed by diagonal stitches to create a secure hold.
Applications of VELCRO® in Sewing
Adding VELCRO® to your projects can be a game-changer, finding applications in:
- Children and baby doll clothing
- Totes and backpacks
- Home décor items like cushion covers and slipcovers
- Eco-friendly projects such as reusable sandwich bags
FAQs on Sewing with VELCRO®
Is it okay to stitch through VELCRO®?
Yes, stitching through VELCRO® is generally okay and is often required to secure it properly on your fabric.
What is the best thread to use with VELCRO®?
A strong polyester thread is recommended as it ensures durability and prevents breakages while sewing.
Do you need a special needle to sew with VELCRO®?
While not compulsory, using a universal needle of size 14 or 16 or a denim needle can help in easy sewing, and avoiding broken needles.
By following these tips, sewing with VELCRO® will no longer be a daunting task, and you’ll master it in no time. So gear up and get ready to sew like a pro with VELCRO®!
You did not address my question, what tension is generally used for sewing on Velcro?
Hi Milagros, we don’t see another comment from you, so it may not have come through. You shouldn’t need to adjust the tension if you use the correct needle and stitch length!