How to Sew a Velour Robe
Velour is a knit fabric, usually cotton or polyester, with a dense, soft nap that makes it perfect for a cozy robe. Velour has a lot of "give," is exceptionally comfortable, affordable, easy to maintain and comes in a wide array of rich colors and pastels.
Instructions
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Preparing and Cutting the Fabric
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1
Purchase sufficient fabric to allow for the nap, which requires that all pattern pieces be cut the same direction. Launder the fabric using the method recommended by the manufacturer.
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2
Determine the direction of the nap by running a hand along the length of the fabric. Mark the top edge of the back of the fabric where the nap is smooth.
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3
Spread the yardage in a single thickness wrong side up on a flat work surface. Trim all the pattern pieces to the cutting line allowances.
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4
Place the pattern pieces on the fabric. Make sure they are all pointing in the same direction per the arrows on each. Pin the pattern pieces to the fabric, setting the pins into the seam
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5
Position the pieces marked with a fold line, allowing sufficient fabric to flip the pattern piece, and cut the other half. Use a straightedge and tailor's chalk to mark the fabric along the edge of the fold line.
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6
Flip the pieces with fold lines and repin. Finish cutting all the pattern pieces. Remove the pins and tissue. Mark with tailor's chalk on the wrong side of the pieces to help identify them.
Sewing the Robe
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7
Start with the shoulder and side seams and pin within the seam allowance when possible to prevent marks to the fabric.
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8
Trim and serge the seams to prevent fraying. Add seam tape when serging is not an option.
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9
Make sure the direction of the nap is correct when adding cuffs, pockets, a front band and/or belt loops. Mark the top edge of the fabric on the backside for pieces that are symmetrical.
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10
Use a light pressure on the presser foot. Set the stitch gauge to 10 to 12 stitches per inch. Select a number 11 Universal point needle and an all-purpose thread.
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11
Stitch the seams in the direction of the nap. Place a strip of tissue paper between the feeder and the fabric to prevent slipping.
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12
Top stitch around the neckline, front band, cuffs, pocket edges and along the edges and ends of the belt to create a finished edge.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Cut through only one thickness of velour at a time. Cutting through two pieces of fabric causes it to slip and distorts the shape.
Create a third belt loop to the rear center of the robe to better support the robe's belt.
Press velour on the wrong side with a special pressing cloth to prevent crushing the nap.
Place the finished robe inside out in the dryer with 2 to 3 damp towels. Tumble dry for 10 to 15 minutes to remove any loose pile or fraying.
