|
I’m the type of person who doesn’t like having too many tools lying around. My sewing room is too small for all the sewing gadgets you can buy - so before I get anything new, I always try to find a way to make it work with what I already have.
Actually, my grandmother only had a sewing machine, and she created the most beautiful garments!
So, I want to show you one of my favorite tricks on how to turn a thin strap without a loop turner. Whether you're using one of my sewing patterns or another favorite, this method works great with just a needle and thread.
|
|
What Is a Loop Turner (And Do You Really Need One)?
A loop turner is a long, thin metal tool used to turn narrow tubes of fabric right side out, like spaghetti straps. It’s very helpful, but not everyone has one on hand. Luckily, my method works just as well!
|
|
What to Use Instead of a Loop Turner
So if you don’t own a loop turner, don’t worry, I don’t have one either. You probably already have everything you need:
-
A needle
-
A piece of thread
And this is enough for turning thin straps inside out.
|
Step-by-Step: How to Turn a Thin Strap Using a Needle and Thread
Step 1: Fold Your Strap:
Fold the strap pieces in half lengthwise with right sides together, and pin along the raw edge.
|
Step 2: Sew Your Strap:
Sew with the seam allowance you’ve chosen (I usually recommend 1 cm).
|
Step 3: Trim the seam allowance:
Trim the seam allowance to reduce bulk and make it easier to turn the strap right side out. If your fabric is bulky, trim it down to 3 - 5 mm (⅛-¼"). If you're using a lightweight fabric, you can trim to around 7 - 8 mm (¼-⅜").
|
Step 4: Prepare the Thread:
Cut a piece of thread that is twice as long as the strap you want to turn. Fold the thread in half and insert the two loose ends through the eye of the needle. This creates a double thread, which makes it stronger and less likely to break while pulling through the fabric.
|
Step 5: Attach the Thread to the Strap:
Insert the needle through both layers of fabric at one end of the strap. Then, before pulling the needle all the way through, pass it through the loop at the folded end of the thread.
Pull tight to secure. This creates a strong hold without tying a knot and will keep the thread firmly anchored as you turn the strap right side out.
|
Step 6: Guide the Needle Through the Strap:
Turn the needle around and gently insert it eye first into the strap.
|
Step 7: Slide the Needle Through the Strap:
Gently slide the needle through the fabric strap until it comes out the other end.
|
Step 8: Turn the Strap Right Side Out:
As you pull the thread, the fabric will begin to turn right side out. Use your fingers to loosely hold the end of the strap where you inserted the needle - not too tightly, just enough to guide the turning motion. Keep pulling the thread little by little.
Don’t rush or pull too hard, especially if you're working with bulky fabric, as the thread might break.
|
Step 9: Pull the Strap All the Way Out:
At some point, the turned end will reach the opening on the other side of the strap. Once it does, you can grab the fabric and gently pull the rest of the strap through without using the thread.
|
Step 10: Press the Strap:
Once your strap is fully turned, press it flat with an iron. This step smooths out any wrinkles and gives your strap a polished, professional look, ready for sewing onto dresses, tops, or accessories.
|
Why I Love This Method
This trick has saved me so many times! And it works for all kinds of sewing patterns that include thin straps.
|
A Sewing Pattern to Try It On?
If you’d like to try this method in an actual project, you can use it when sewing the Peony Dress Sewing pattern. That pattern includes a structured bodice, bustier-style cups, and a tulle underskirt and even though the sewing instructions don’t include this exact step-by-step, this is the method I used for turning the straps.
|
|
I really hope this was helpful. I noticed so many of you were curious about this method after I shared it in a reel on Instagram, so I wanted to turn it into a step-by-step guide you can save and come back to later.
Next time you're sewing a dress or a top and don’t have a loop turner, I hope this little trick can help you too.
And if you try it (or already use this method), I’d love to hear how it goes! You can always tag me over on Instagram @nordicseam I love seeing what you’re working on 🧵💛
Warmly, Alessia
|
