How to Stitch Velcro

Sew Velcro strips onto cloth diapers instead of using diaper pins.

Sewing Velcro by hand is often the easiest and most efficient way to handle a project. Machine needles often loop or skip when sewing through Velcro teeth. Beginning seamstresses can hand sew Velcro zippers or snap enclosures for stitch practice. Velcro presents safe sewing options for children's tiny garments, as Velcro coins can be sewn onto them, replacing buttons causing choking hazards. Velcro sewing projects require only a needle, thread and few other items.

Things You'll Need

• Velcro coins or strips
• Sewing scissors
• Straight sewing pins
• Measuring tape
• Needle
• Thread

Instructions

1. 

   Velcro, now used on soldier's uniforms, was invented in 1941.

   Gather the type of Velcro you need for your project; strip tape, squares or coins. If you are using strip tape, cut the tape into the size you need for your project. If you are using squares or coins, check the size to see if they are a fit. They are sold in 3/4 inch and 1/2 inch sets. If you need a smaller size, trim them down to fit your needs.

2. Pin the Velcro set pieces into place onto the fabric. If you are using more than one Velcro set, use the measuring tape to ensure that you have lined them up properly.

3. Thread the needle with thread that matches the fabric you are using, instead of matching the Velcro strip, as Velcro strips are predominantly sold in only black and white.

4. Sew the Velcro pieces onto the fabric, around the edges of the Velcro without placing the needle into the Velcro teeth. Sew a clear knot at the beginning of the first stitch and back-stitch at the beginning of the stitch before continuing forward along the Velcro edge. Continue sewing along the edge of the Velcro until you reach the other end of the Velcro, or, if you are using a Velcro coin, you should sew around the coin, thus ending up where you began. Sew another back-stitch at the end of your stitch to secure the stitch.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash and dry fabrics before sewing Velcro onto them.

• Stick the Velcro sets together before placing garments into the washer to keep Velcro in the best condition.

References

• Velcro: Consumer Products: Sew On

Resources

• Diaper Sewing: Sew Your Own Diapers
• TimeUS: A Brief History of: Velcro; Claire Suddath