Simple Closures - Topic Overview

Hi Everyone! Are you ready for a deep dive into the topic of "simple closures"? Throughout this month long topic I'll share with you my tips and tricks for working with a variety of closures such as: hook and loop tape, buttons, buttonholes, eyelets, and more... Watch the video below for an overview of the month long topic. You can also see a bit more general info about Simple Closures in the Sewing Academy Part 3.3 Video (password for viewing site: PixieFaire). This was included in your sign up bonus!

 

Pattern Overview: For this topic, you can choose to sew with any pattern you already have. Below you'll find a list of the Liberty Jane patterns either shown in the videos or ones that highlight the specific types of closures mentioned.

 

Week One: To kick off the topic of simple closures I wanted to share with you a few tips for working with hook and loop tape. We've used a variety of types over the years and have come to love the Velcro® Brand Qwik Tie or One-Wrap Tapes. Not only are they thinner than the standard packaged velcro that you can buy locally (or at big box online stores), but they are two sided providing a built-in stabilizer for easy application!

Watch the video below:

 

Resources (where to buy):

  • Currently, you can find a mixed color 3 yard bundles of hook and loop tape at Pixie Faire. We have the  Color Variety Bundle available. This roll can be cut in half lengthwise to create both the left and right side pieces.
  • You can also find Velcro® Brand Qwik Tie Tape (the ultra thin stuff in both black and white) at Zipper That Doll (1" wide, must be cut narrower)
  • Or Velcro® Brand One Wrap Reusable Cable Tie packages (multi color 8" long strips)
  • You can find 1/4" Steam-A-Seam Lite or 1/4" Pellon® Lite EZ-Steam pretty much anywhere sewing supplies are sold. You can use this product on any seam that needs stabilization that doesn't need stretch. We use this in all our Janes shoe patterns too!

Resources (other tips & tricks):

  • A glue stick can be used in place of double sided fusible tape. It won't gum up the needle and keeps the velcro in place while sewing. This also works great for zippers!
  • Use thread that matches your velcro to keep it clean and professional looking. 
  • Use specific scissors for trimming/cutting the hook and loop tape so you don't dull your fabric scissors!

 Week One task:

  • Sew a garment using a hook and loop tape closure. If you haven't tried the tips mentioned in the video, give them a try and test the difference they make. If possible, test out using different types to see which type you prefer most.
  • Post questions as comments under this Facebook Group Post - please preface your question by stating the closure product used, the pattern used, and step number you're on. Post finished projects as well  - we'd love to see them!

Next Tuesday  - Week 2: Buttons used with loop closure...

 

 


7 Comments

Marsha
Marsha

May 12, 2017

Suggestion: Would it be possible in the future to link the list of suggested patterns so that it takes users to the point of purchase? Thank you.

Tari
Tari

May 05, 2017

I really like the little Wonder Clips you can get on Amazon for clipping the Velcro to the garment. They’re small, reusable and really strong too. (Plus they have tons of other uses in the sewing room) :)

Genine
Genine

May 05, 2017

I bought packs of whelping collars from a pet store. They come in mixed packs of brights or pastels and each collar is a different color. They are double sided Velcro and work really well for dolls clothes.

Pat B
Pat B

May 04, 2017

Some patterns have back closures left over right and others have right over left. It just depends on the pattern or designer. I was taught girls go wearers right over left in front and the same way all around the body so that the back would be as you look at doll back left over right and boys are just the opposite. Is there a right or wrong way? American Girl clothes go left over right but Liberty Jane seems to go right over left. I’m confused. Help please.

Margaret(Peggy)
Margaret(Peggy)

May 02, 2017

Thank you soooo much, never thought about using my double sided fusable tape for holding the Velcro down! I almost missed class cause I have been sewing jersey knit pants and tops all week. They look so great because of the tips you all have given me. I am in sewing heaven. Hugs to you all!

Marcy Mahle
Marcy Mahle

May 02, 2017

I am really looking forward to this month’s class. Could you please add the download video button to both videos. I really like to save them to my Dropbox for viewing easily on my tablet. The button was there on the April videos. Many thanks.

Beth
Beth

May 02, 2017

May I also suggest “Velcro Brand One Wrap Reusable Cable Tie” I found packages in primary colors and pastel colors (to match your outfit) . They are 8 in long, but you lose some of that length because you trim off the narrow and wider ends that are designed as the “tie” part. Still enough length for separates for dolls though!

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