How to Sew Velcro: Step-by-Step Guide

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Are you ready to get creative with Velcro? Sewing on this versatile fastener is an essential skill for any crafter or tailor. It’s a surprisingly simple task, and once mastered, it can open up new possibilities in your projects! Whether you’re stitching by hand or machine, our step-by-step guide will show you how to sew Velcro like the pros.

First, gather your materials. You’ll need your Velcro strips, fabric, thread, scissors, and a sewing needle or sewing machine. Make sure to have Velcro that matches the thickness of your fabric so it stays flush and even when applied.

Next, cut the Velcro to the size needed for your project. Measure the area where you want to place the Velcro and cut strips to match. Cut two matching strips for each Velcro closure (one fuzzy side and one prickly side).

Now it’s time to sew. If sewing by hand, thread your needle with a strong thread that matches or contrasts nicely. Knot the end. Then, starting at one end of the Velcro strip, sew a straight stitch down one side, across the bottom, and back up the other side.

For machine sewing, change to a zigzag stitch setting. Place the Velcro face down on the right side of the fabric and edgestitch down both long sides. Trim any excess fabric. Repeat with the other side of the Velcro on the opposite fabric piece.

And that’s it—you did it! Press your Velcro to check that it adheres correctly. Now you can start adding this useful closure to clothing, accessories, crafts, and so much more.

Key Takeaways

Prepare Velcro by cutting it to the needed size and cutting the fuzzy and prickly sides separately for clean edges.
Choose a sewing method, either hand sewing or machine sewing using a zigzag stitch setting and a zipper foot.
Attach the Velcro by placing it face down on the fabric, edgestitching both sides, and trimming excess fabric.
You may want to consider alternatives to sewing Velcro, such as iron-on options, zippers, buttonholes, press studs, or Kam snaps.

Sewing Velcro: Step-by-Step Tutorial

You’ve got your Velcro, needle, and thread ready to go. Now let’s walk through sewing this handy fastener onto fabric, whether by machine or by hand.

To start, cut your Velcro to the desired length. This will depend on how long of a fastening strip you need. Measure the area you want to attach the Velcro to and cut a strip slightly longer than that measurement.

It’s best to cut the fuzzy side and hook side of the Velcro separately to ensure clean edges.

Next, decide whether you’ll sew the Velcro by machine or hand. Sewing by machine is quicker, while hand sewing allows for more control and working with trickier fabrics or areas.

If sewing by machine, choose a stitch length between 2-3 mm. Shorter stitch lengths are sturdier for holding the Velcro in place. Line up the edge of the Velcro strip with the edge of your fabric’s right side.

For hand sewing, thread your needle and tie a knot at the end. Insert the needle from the back through to the right side of the fabric, then through the top of the Velcro strip. Continue with a straight stitch, keeping your stitches close together, about 1/8 inch apart.

Once you’ve sewn the length of one side of Velcro, reposition the fabric and repeat the process to sew the other side. Follow the same technique, machine or hand, on the opposing piece of fabric for the other half of the Velcro fastener.

With the Velcro strips securely sewn, attach the pieces by pressing the fuzzy and hook sides together. You now have a removable closure! Velcro is great for jackets, bags, crafts and so much more.

Identifying the Sides of Velcro

You’ll want to identify the hook and loop sides of the Velcro before you start.

The fuzzy side is the loop.
The prickly side is the hook.
Test them by pressing together to confirm which side is which.

Knowing the difference between the two sides is crucial for properly aligning and securing them during sewing. Correct placement prevents frustration and ensures a durable hold. Having the hook and loop sides identified beforehand allows you to perfectly sew on this adaptable fastener.

Recommended Supplies for Sewing With Velcro

Tackling velcro calls for some special supplies. Polyester thread and a thick universal needle are essential tools when dealing with the scratchy hooks and loops. The durable thread withstands the friction while the needle easily pierces through without complaint.

Here are the recommended supplies:

Polyester thread. Withstands friction from velcro.

Universal needle, sizes 14-16. Thick shank pierces through the tape’s grip.

Zipper foot. Guides your work under the foot.

Velcro. The hook and loop fastener tape.

With the right thread, needle, foot, and know-how, you’ll conquer even the prickliest fastener tasks with ease.

Holding the Velcro in Place

Clamps or adhesive will stabilize the Velcro as you stitch it to fabric. To ensure proper placement, secure the hook and loop sides before sewing. Adhesive and clips hold Velcro flat, preventing shifting while you work. Hand-sew an X or box pattern through the tapes to permanently attach your Velcro fastenings.

With the Velcro stabilized, you can sew clean, straight lines for a professional finish.

Stitches for Sewing Velcro

Choose a zigzag or blind hem stitch for securing velcro’s grip while permitting some give. Either stitch allows the velcro to flex without tearing loose. The zigzag stitch offers sturdiness while the blind hem provides invisible strength.

Hand sew velcro using a simple crisscross pattern through the tape for durability. Match the thread color to the velcro to conceal the stitches. Consider the needed strength when selecting the hook and loop sides.

How to Sew Velcro on a Sewing Machine

When sewing Velcro on your sewing machine, start by choosing the right needle – generally a denim or universal 14/16 size needle to handle the thick Velcro. Then match your thread color to the Velcro, test your machine’s zigzag stitch settings on a scrap piece, and use a zipper foot to get close to the edges.

Choosing the Right Needle

A universal needle serves as your trusty sword to pierce that unyielding hook and loop fabric squarely and swiftly, scoring their sturdy threads for a lasting bond. Choose a universal or denim needle, sizes 14-16, with a sharp point to penetrate the Velcro’s robust fibers.

Match the thread color and weight to the project fabric. Adjust tension and stitch length for smooth sewing. A zipper foot prevents fabric snags. Finally, trim inner corners before turning and topstitching.

Matching Thread and Needle

When stitchin’ Velcro, you gotta match the thread color to your Velcro so it blends in nicely.

Use polyester thread for durability.
Match light thread to light Velcro.
Match dark thread to dark Velcro.
Contrasting thread shows through.
Use thread that matches your project.

Matching thread helps the Velcro blend in for a clean, inconspicuous look on your fabric.

Testing Machine Settings

You’ll want to test your machine settings by stitching on a scrap of the project fabric first, as studies show over 80% of sewers have tension issues when using specialty stitches or thicker threads. Before starting, check your needle type and size, thread weight, and foot fit. Make any adjustments needed to achieve balanced tension, stitch length, and width when test sewing your chosen zigzag or other Velcro-friendly stitch.

With the practice sample, you’ll have your sewing savviness ready for neat, durable Velcro attachment.

Using a Zipper Foot

Snapping that zipper foot in place gives you such control and precision for attaching Velcro. The narrow base guides the stitching perfectly along the edge of the tape. You’ll get professional results every time when you use this handy sewing machine attachment.

Sewing With Zigzag Stitch

Settle down and zigzag that scratchy fastener tight – your determined spirit sews a seam of pride.

Adjust stitch width for optimal coverage.
Slow speed for control on curves and corners.
Use decorative stitch on edges or as embellishment.
Lengthen stitch length to avoid fabric bunching.

Handcrafted heirlooms stitched with care endure.

Trimming Corners

When attaching the Velcro, trim the corners before sewing to reduce bulk. Trimming the corners allows the adhesive to lie flat and prevents your stitching foot from catching. This prevents skipped stitches and a neat finish. Your Velcro application will look clean and tailored with trimmed corners before sewing.

How to Sew Velcro by Hand

Ready to sew on some Velcro by hand and have it hold strong? First, you’ll want to secure the Velcro pieces in place with clips before neatly stitching around the edges in a box pattern. Then make an X stitch through the tape itself to really lock it down and prevent things from ripping open.

Using Clips for Securing Velcro

You’ll want to securely fasten the Velcro with clothespins before stitching to keep everything aligned. Investigation reveals proper preparation prevents pesky problems. Use non-rusting plastic clips spaced every inch or two along the Velcro strip for precise positioning.

Wooden clothespins or binder clips work too. Test the clips on fabric scraps first to ensure no snagging or tearing. Proper preparation and diligent securing leads to professional results when sewing on Velcro.

Sewing Edges in a Box Pattern

While stitching invigorates, encircle the Velcro’s edges with a box pattern for long-lasting security. Deviate from ordinary squares by creating zigzags or framing each side with two lines. Reinforce corners with an X. Though hand-sewing takes more time, it allows for creative touches and stronger bonds than sewing by machine.

Creating X Stitch Through Tape

After securing the Velcro, make a sturdy X stitch by piercing the tape in an X pattern with your needle and thread. This cross-stitch locks the fastener in place. Reinforce each arm of the X with a backstitch at its end.

Use a thick needle to penetrate the tape. Take care to keep the stitches tight and straight when forming the X.

Sewing Wide Strips

For wide Velcro strips, first secure them lengthwise. Then, stitch across the width and finally diagonally through the tape. When working with wide Velcro, take care to align the edges before sewing to ensure a tidy, durable fastening.

Consider your fabric and project needs when selecting fastening options like Velcro, zippers, or kam snaps.

Tips for Sewing Velcro

When working with Velcro, it’s important to start with the right materials. Choose high-quality Velcro and polyester thread; you may also want to coat your needle in beeswax to help it glide through the fabric.

Before you begin sewing, take time to properly align your Velcro pieces so your end result looks clean and professional. Varying sentence structure and length while fixing any spelling, grammar, or syntax errors improves the flow and readability without sounding robotic.

Choosing High-Quality Velcro

You’ll regret it if you skimp on quality when selecting the Velcro. Opt for a reputable name-brand with durable thick nylon and high-density polyester hook backing. Lesser quality Velcro wears out quickly with use. For long-lasting, high adhesion Velcro for your projects, choose the best materials from trusted brands.

Using Polyester Thread

Use polyester thread when attaching Velcro; it’s stronger than cotton. Polyester thread is less likely to break when sewing on Velcro. It holds up better to machine washing too. For hand sewing, wax the polyester thread to prevent tangles.

Match thread color to Velcro for a clean look. Consider light gray thread for white Velcro.

Coating Needle in Beeswax (optional)

While sewing on velcro, dipping your needle in beeswax makes it glide through fabric smoothly.

It reduces friction.
It protects the fabric from damage.
It lubricates the needle.
It prevents skipped stitches.
It increases needle sharpness.

To coat your needle, simply press it into a block of beeswax before stitching. Using beeswax allows for clean velcro application and helps your needle easily penetrate tough fabrics.

Aligning Velcro Before Sewing

To ensure proper adhesion, press the Velcro pieces together before threading that first stitch. When preparing the fabric, clip the properly aligned Velcro in place. Adhering Velcro correctly from the start prevents frustrating popping and misalignment later on.

Hand sewing offers more control for precision alignment, while machine sewing’s speed lends itself to projects requiring many Velcro strips. Whether adhering by hand or machine, properly aligning your Velcro is critical for a long-lasting bond.

Alternatives to Sewing Velcro

Sewing on velcro is not your only option for closures. You can also iron on velcro, sew in zippers, make custom buttonholes, add press studs, or use Kam snaps for your garment or craft project.

Alternatives to sewing on velcro include ironing on velcro, sewing in zippers, making custom buttonholes, adding press studs, or using Kam snaps. These provide different closure options for garments and craft projects other than just sewing on velcro.

Iron-on Velcro

You’ll cut sewing time drastically with iron-on Velcro. So convenient! Simply iron to bond the adhesive backing. Great for little ones’ clothing and quick projects, iron-on Velcro sticks flat and holds well.

If you’re tired of stitching or pinning, consider this easy option that requires no sewing.

Zippers

Zippers give a clean finish while allowing easy access. Opt for metal teeth over plastic. Match the zipper color to the fabric. Practice on scraps first. Engage the zipper foot and stitch slowly. Check the alignment as you go. Use longer stitches at the ends. Finish by backstitching neatly.

Buttonholes

Instead of velcro, create functional buttonholes for a more polished look.

Mark the buttonhole placement.
Machine stitch a rectangle/square shape.
Carefully cut the opening with a seam ripper.

Buttonholes offer customizable sizes and shapes for personalized garments. Consider buttonhole techniques before defaulting to velcro.

Press Studs

Press studs offer a quick, no-sew way to attach and remove fabric. Simply pound the prongs through the fabric using the stud setter tool; no needle or thread is required! Just squeeze to snap pieces together.

Snaps are ideal for baby clothes, dresses, jackets, and heavy fabrics like denim, where Velcro can be bulky.

Kam Snaps

You can swiftly fasten kam snaps like lightning to secure fabrics. Kam snaps exceed Velcro for garments needing frequent opening and closing. Press male and female kam snap components in place with a snap tool. Kam snaps withstand washing yet unfasten easily.

PIN FOR LATER

Bookmark this info for when ya need it. Here’s a quick list for pinning velcro sewing tips:

Pick the right needle and thread
Prep your velcro before sewing
Use a zigzag stitch
Reinforce the edges
Cut corners on thick velcro

Whether you’re adding velcro to baby onesies or crafting a cute pencil pouch, having the right techniques makes all the difference. Start with good supplies – polyester thread and a thick needle handle velcro best.

Then trim your velcro and test stitching on scraps first. When sewing, zigzag over the edges twice for security. And don’t forget to backstitch at the beginning and end! Lastly, clip sharp inner corners to reduce bulk.

Conclusion

As the old adage goes, measure twice, cut once, and the same principle applies to sewing Velcro. Knowing how to sew Velcro is an invaluable skill for seamstresses and tailors. With the right supplies, preparation, and attention to detail, sewing Velcro onto fabric can be a simple and rewarding experience.

Whether you decide to sew by hand or machine, the steps outlined in this article will help you get the job done quickly and properly. With the right technique, you’ll be able to sew Velcro with confidence and create lasting, beautiful pieces of clothing and accessories.

To begin, you’ll need Velcro, thread, needles, scissors, fabric, and a sewing machine or thimble. Ensure you have purchased Velcro with adhesive backing to make application easier. Cut the Velcro to size, peel away the adhesive cover, and stick it in place on the fabric.

For increased hold, it can also be pinned. When hand-sewing, use a thimble and aim for small, tight stitches about 1/8 apart. Go slowly and be careful not to sew through the Velcro loops. If using a machine, select a tight zigzag stitch and sew around the Velcro’s perimeter.

Whether sewing by hand or machine, take care not to stretch the fabric. Make sure the Velcro lies flat with no puckering. Double check measurements before cutting to avoid mistakes. Once the Velcro is neatly and securely sewn in place, admire your workmanship.

With some practice, you’ll be able to expertly sew Velcro for bags, clothing embellishments, crafts, and more in no time.

How to Sew Velcro: Step-by-Step Guide (2024)

Key Takeaways