Hi Everyone! In Part Three, Donna joins us again with another way to elevate your design work with a hook and loop closure!
This tutorial demonstrates how to install a hook and loop closure that looks like an invisible zipper. The method requires pre-planning and is best suited for designs with a lined bodice. The closure is inserted during construction and eliminates the need for topstitching. The tutorial uses the lining pattern pieces from the Art Deco Dress pattern and follows the construction method of the Reversible Tunic pattern hack. The hook and loop tape is cut into two strips, one quarter inch wide and one half inch wide, and sewn onto the left and right sides of the lining. The wider strip is sandwiched between the main fabric and the lining. The closure is virtually invisible when completed!
Follow along to see the full process.
Overview of how to use this closure method:
The hook and loop tape is attached to the garment by sewing it onto the lining and main fabric before the side seams or back opening is sewn together. In this example, a 3/4" wide piece is trimmed into two sections, 1/4" wide and 1/2" wide.
The narrow 1/4" wide strip of tape is placed on the left back lining along the center back line with the loop or soft side facing up. Using a zigzag stitch, stitch around all four sides of the strip.
The wider 1/2" strip is inserted into the right side of the garment with the hook side of the tape facing towards the right side of the main fabric. The tape is stitched with a quarter inch seam allowance, stitching only to the main fabric. When the garment is finished, half of the wider tape will be sandwiched between the main fabric and the lining.
To finish sewing the garment, the next steps would be to sew the side seams according to the instructions in the Art Deco dress pattern, and then finish the hem from the inside like a reversible garment. The hem should be pressed carefully, avoiding contact with the hook and loop tape. Finally, the opening along the center back should be closed, either by hand stitching or by stitching in the ditch just beside the fold of the main fabric.
Isn't this a great construction method? We hope you try this on a project too!
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Pamela W.
September 21, 2023
Donna, thank you for sharing this elegant finish for using hook and loop tape. Definitely going to try this.