Sewing flat straps typically involves preparing fabric strips, sewing them into a tube, turning the tube right side out, and then pressing it flat. This method creates durable and professional-looking straps for bags, garments, and other projects.
Creating flat straps involves several steps, from cutting the fabric to finishing the edges. The specific method can vary depending on the desired width and thickness of the finished strap, but the basic principle is to sew a seam and then turn the fabric.
Basic Fabric Strap Construction
Here are the general steps for constructing simple fabric straps:
- Cut Fabric: Determine the desired finished width of your strap and multiply it by two. Add seam allowances to both long edges. For example, for a 1-inch wide strap with 1/4 inch seam allowances, you would cut a fabric strip 1 inch + 1 inch + 1/4 inch + 1/4 inch = 2.5 inches wide. The length will be your desired strap length plus any extra needed for attachment.
- Fold and Press: Fold the fabric strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and press to create a crisp fold line.
- Sew the Seam: Open the fabric strip. Fold one raw edge in towards the center fold line and press. Fold the other raw edge in towards the center fold line and press. Now, fold the strap along the original center fold line, enclosing the raw edges inside. Press firmly. For some strap types, you might sew a seam down the open long edge to form a tube before folding the raw edges in.
- Topstitch (Optional but Recommended): Stitch close to the edge(s) of the strap to secure the layers and provide a finished look.
For thicker or bulkier straps, you might use interfacing or multiple layers of fabric.
Sewing a Tube for Turning
A common method for flat straps, especially narrower ones, is to sew the fabric into a tube first and then turn it right side out.
Steps for Tube Construction:
- Cut Fabric: Cut your fabric strip to the desired finished width multiplied by two, plus seam allowances on both long edges.
- Fold and Sew: Fold the fabric strip lengthwise, right sides together, aligning the raw long edges. Sew a seam along the raw long edge using your chosen seam allowance (e.g., 1/4 inch or 1/2 inch), creating a tube. Leave the short ends open.
- Trim Seam Allowance: Trim the seam allowance if needed, especially if working with bulky fabric or narrow straps, to reduce bulk.
- Turn Right Side Out: This is often the trickiest part, especially for narrow straps.
Turning Thin Straps Right Side Out
Turning a narrow tube of fabric right side out can be challenging. A common technique involves using a turning tool or even a simple cord or loop turner.
According to the provided reference:
And now all we have to do is pull the cord. And it smoothly turns the strap. Right side out now I have have a beautiful 8in wide strap and the cord.
This highlights the effectiveness of using a cord to turn narrow fabric tubes.
How to Use a Cord for Turning:
- Insert Cord: Secure a cord (like kitchen twine or a strong thread) inside the fabric tube at one end. You can stitch it securely to the seam allowance or tie it around a safety pin attached to the seam allowance.
- Thread Through Tube: Carefully feed the cord through the inside of the fabric tube until it emerges from the other end.
- Pull to Turn: Hold the end of the strap where the cord is secured and gently pull the other end of the cord. The fabric will begin to turn right side out as the cord pulls the secured end through the tube. Pull smoothly until the entire strap is turned.
- Press: Once the strap is turned, press it flat. You can position the seam along one edge or center it on the back, depending on the desired look.
Using a cord is particularly helpful for thin straps where traditional turning methods are difficult. While the reference mentions resulting in an "8in wide strap" after turning, this technique is typically used for much narrower straps (e.g., 1/4 inch to 1 inch wide finished).
Summary Table: Basic Strap Construction
| Step | Description | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Cut Fabric | Width = (Desired Width x 2) + Seam Allowances | Consider fabric weight for seam allowance size. |
| Fold & Press | Fold lengthwise, wrong sides together; press. | Creates a guide for later folds. |
| Fold Raw Edges | Fold raw edges to center fold line; press. | Use steam for crisp folds. |
| Fold in Half | Fold along original center line, enclosing raw edges; press. | Ensure raw edges are neatly tucked inside. |
| Topstitch | Stitch close to edges. | Helps the strap lie flat and adds durability. |
Summary Table: Tube Strap Construction & Turning
| Step | Description | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Cut Fabric | Width = (Desired Width x 2) + Seam Allowances | Cut accurately for even strap width. |
| Fold & Sew | Fold lengthwise, right sides together; sew seam. | Sew a consistent seam allowance. |
| Trim Seam | Trim seam allowance (optional). | Essential for very narrow straps or thick fabrics. |
| Insert Cord | Secure cord to one end of the tube inside. | Use a strong, non-stretchy cord. |
| Thread Cord | Push/feed cord through the tube. | Take your time to avoid snagging. |
| Pull to Turn | Hold one end, pull cord from the other end. | Pull smoothly; avoid forceful tugging. |
| Press Flat | Press the turned strap. | Press seam to one side or center it. |
Once turned and pressed, the flat strap is ready to be attached to your project.
