Sewing Sticky Back Velcro: A Comprehensive Guide for Fabric Crafts and DIY Projects

Velcro, also known as hook and loop fastener, is a versatile and convenient material used in various applications, from clothing and accessories to home décor and crafts. While the sticky back adhesive allows for easy application, sewing sticky back Velcro ensures a more durable and long-lasting hold, especially when dealing with fabrics or materials that experience frequent use or stress. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of sewing sticky back Velcro, providing detailed instructions, tips, and tricks to achieve professional-looking results.

Understanding Sticky Back Velcro

Before diving into the sewing process, it’s important to understand the composition and properties of sticky back Velcro. Sticky back Velcro consists of two components: the hook side and the loop side. The hook side features tiny, stiff hooks that grip onto the soft, fuzzy loops of the loop side. The adhesive backing on both sides allows for temporary attachment to various surfaces.

While the adhesive backing is useful for quick fixes or temporary applications, it is not designed to withstand repeated use or heavy stress. Over time, the adhesive can weaken, causing the Velcro to detach from the fabric or material. Sewing the Velcro in place provides a much stronger and more reliable bond, ensuring that it stays securely attached even with frequent use and laundering.

Materials You’ll Need

To sew sticky back Velcro, gather the following materials:

* **Sticky Back Velcro:** Choose the appropriate width and length of Velcro for your project. Consider the weight and thickness of the fabric when selecting the Velcro strength.
* **Sewing Machine (Optional):** A sewing machine will make the process faster and easier, especially for larger projects. However, you can also sew Velcro by hand.
* **Needle:** Use a needle suitable for the fabric you are working with. A universal needle or a denim needle works well for most fabrics.
* **Thread:** Select a thread that matches the color of the Velcro or the fabric. Polyester or nylon thread is durable and resistant to fraying.
* **Scissors:** Sharp scissors are essential for cutting the Velcro and thread.
* **Pins:** Use pins to hold the Velcro in place before sewing.
* **Measuring Tape or Ruler:** Accurate measurements are crucial for proper placement of the Velcro.
* **Seam Ripper (Optional):** A seam ripper can be helpful for removing stitches if you make a mistake.
* **Iron and Ironing Board (Optional):** Ironing the fabric before sewing can help to prevent wrinkles and ensure accurate placement.
* **Walking Foot (Optional):** If you are using a sewing machine, a walking foot can help to feed the fabric evenly and prevent the Velcro from shifting.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Sewing Sticky Back Velcro

Follow these step-by-step instructions to sew sticky back Velcro securely and effectively:

**Step 1: Prepare the Fabric and Velcro**

* **Pre-wash the fabric:** If you are working with washable fabric, pre-wash it to prevent shrinkage after the Velcro is sewn on.
* **Iron the fabric:** Iron the fabric to remove any wrinkles or creases. This will ensure accurate placement of the Velcro.
* **Measure and cut the Velcro:** Use a measuring tape or ruler to measure the desired length of the Velcro. Cut the hook and loop sides to the same length.
* **Round the corners (Optional):** Rounding the corners of the Velcro can help to prevent them from snagging or catching on other fabrics.

**Step 2: Position the Velcro**

* **Peel off the adhesive backing:** Carefully peel off the adhesive backing from the hook side of the Velcro.
* **Position the hook side:** Place the hook side of the Velcro on the desired location on the fabric. Use pins to hold it in place. Ensure the hook side is facing outwards.
* **Repeat for the loop side:** Peel off the adhesive backing from the loop side of the Velcro. Position the loop side on the corresponding location on the other piece of fabric, ensuring that it aligns perfectly with the hook side when closed. Use pins to hold it in place. Make sure the loop side is also facing outwards.
* **Double-check alignment:** Before sewing, double-check that the hook and loop sides are properly aligned and that they will close securely when pressed together.

**Step 3: Sewing the Velcro (Using a Sewing Machine)**

* **Thread the sewing machine:** Thread the sewing machine with the appropriate thread color and type.
* **Select a stitch:** Choose a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch. A zigzag stitch provides more flexibility and strength, especially for fabrics that stretch.
* **Adjust the stitch length:** Set the stitch length to a medium setting (around 2.5-3 mm). A shorter stitch length will create a denser and stronger seam.
* **Lower the presser foot:** Lower the presser foot and position the fabric with the Velcro under the needle.
* **Sew around the perimeter:** Start sewing along one edge of the Velcro, close to the edge. Maintain a consistent seam allowance (around 1/8 inch). Sew slowly and carefully, guiding the fabric with your hands.
* **Backstitch at the beginning and end:** Backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam to secure the stitches and prevent unraveling.
* **Repeat for all sides:** Continue sewing around the perimeter of the Velcro, ensuring that all sides are securely attached. Overlap the stitches slightly at the corners for added strength.
* **Repeat for the other side:** Repeat the process for the loop side of the Velcro.

**Step 4: Sewing the Velcro (By Hand)**

* **Thread the needle:** Thread the needle with the appropriate thread color and type. Tie a knot at the end of the thread.
* **Choose a stitch:** Use a backstitch or a whipstitch. A backstitch creates a stronger and more durable seam.
* **Start sewing:** Insert the needle from the back of the fabric, close to the edge of the Velcro. Bring the needle up through the fabric and the Velcro.
* **Backstitch:** For a backstitch, insert the needle back into the fabric a short distance behind the point where it emerged. Bring the needle up again a short distance ahead of the first stitch. Continue this process, creating a series of overlapping stitches.
* **Whipstitch:** For a whipstitch, wrap the thread around the edge of the Velcro and the fabric, creating a series of diagonal stitches.
* **Secure the thread:** After sewing around the entire perimeter of the Velcro, secure the thread by tying a knot on the back of the fabric. Trim the excess thread.
* **Repeat for the other side:** Repeat the process for the loop side of the Velcro.

**Step 5: Finishing Touches**

* **Trim any excess thread:** Trim any excess thread from the seams.
* **Check the stitches:** Inspect the stitches to ensure that they are secure and even. Repair any loose or uneven stitches.
* **Test the Velcro:** Test the Velcro to ensure that it closes securely and holds firmly.
* **Reinforce corners (Optional):** For added durability, reinforce the corners of the Velcro by sewing a small X or square over each corner.

Tips and Tricks for Sewing Sticky Back Velcro

* **Use a walking foot:** A walking foot can help to feed the fabric evenly and prevent the Velcro from shifting, especially when working with thick or bulky fabrics.
* **Use a needle with a sharp point:** A needle with a sharp point will penetrate the fabric and Velcro more easily and prevent skipped stitches.
* **Sew slowly and carefully:** Sewing slowly and carefully will help to ensure that the stitches are even and secure.
* **Use pins to hold the Velcro in place:** Pins will prevent the Velcro from shifting while you are sewing.
* **Backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam:** Backstitching will secure the stitches and prevent unraveling.
* **Reinforce the corners:** Reinforcing the corners of the Velcro will add durability and prevent them from tearing.
* **Choose the right thread:** Select a thread that matches the color of the Velcro or the fabric. Polyester or nylon thread is durable and resistant to fraying.
* **Adjust the stitch length:** A shorter stitch length will create a denser and stronger seam.
* **Clean the needle:** Clean the needle regularly to remove any adhesive residue.
* **Use a Teflon presser foot:** If the adhesive on the Velcro is sticking to the presser foot, use a Teflon presser foot.
* **Practice on scrap fabric:** Before sewing the Velcro onto your project, practice on a scrap piece of fabric to get a feel for the process.
* **Consider using a specialized Velcro sewing foot:** Some sewing machine manufacturers offer specialized feet designed for sewing Velcro. These feet often have a groove or channel that helps to guide the Velcro and prevent it from shifting.
* **If hand sewing, consider using beeswax on your thread:** Coating your thread with beeswax before hand sewing can help to prevent it from tangling and make it easier to pull through the fabric.
* **Be mindful of the hook and loop direction:** Ensure that the hook and loop sides are oriented correctly so that they engage properly when closed. This is especially important for projects with multiple Velcro closures.
* **Consider the end use of the project:** If the project will be subjected to frequent washing or heavy use, consider using a stronger Velcro and reinforcing the seams with multiple rows of stitching.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

* **Sewing too close to the edge of the Velcro:** Sewing too close to the edge of the Velcro can cause the stitches to pull out or tear the Velcro.
* **Using the wrong type of thread:** Using the wrong type of thread can cause the stitches to break or fray.
* **Skipping backstitching:** Skipping backstitching can cause the stitches to unravel.
* **Sewing too fast:** Sewing too fast can cause the stitches to be uneven or skipped.
* **Not using enough pins:** Not using enough pins can cause the Velcro to shift while you are sewing.
* **Ignoring the fabric’s grain:** Pay attention to the fabric’s grain, especially when sewing Velcro onto garments. Sewing against the grain can cause puckering or distortion.
* **Overlooking the thickness of the fabric:** Consider the thickness of the fabric when selecting your needle and thread. Thicker fabrics may require a heavier needle and stronger thread.
* **Failing to clean the area before applying:** Before sticking the velcro to the fabric, make sure to clean the fabric so that the Velcro adheres better.

Applications of Sewn Sticky Back Velcro

Sewn sticky back Velcro is ideal for a wide range of applications, including:

* **Clothing:** Securing closures on jackets, skirts, pants, and shirts.
* **Accessories:** Attaching straps to bags, wallets, and belts.
* **Home décor:** Fastening cushions to chairs, securing curtains, and attaching removable covers to furniture.
* **Crafts:** Creating closures for pouches, wallets, and scrapbooks.
* **Costumes:** Securing costume pieces and accessories.
* **Medical devices:** Fastening braces, supports, and other medical devices.
* **DIY projects:** Countless other applications where a secure and adjustable closure is needed.

Conclusion

Sewing sticky back Velcro is a simple and effective way to create durable and long-lasting closures for a variety of projects. By following these detailed instructions and tips, you can achieve professional-looking results and enjoy the convenience and versatility of Velcro for years to come. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced sewer, mastering the art of sewing sticky back Velcro will open up a world of possibilities for your crafting and DIY endeavors. So, gather your materials, fire up your sewing machine (or grab your needle and thread), and start creating!