Fabric straps are used in all kinds of sewing projects, but making them can sometimes involve a frustrating extra step: sewing a narrow tube and then trying to turn it right side out.
If you've ever wrestled with a tube turner or another tool to get a strap turned, you'll appreciate this simpler method!
Instead of sewing the strap into a tube and turning it, this technique folds the raw edges toward the inside of the strap before stitching. The result is a neat, sturdy strap without the struggle of turning it inside out.
The first steps are the same for both strap variations. Once the basic strap is formed, you'll choose how to finish the short ends based on how your strap will be used.
Creating the Basic Strap
Step 1: Fold the Long Edges
Working with the fabric piece for your strap, fold one long edge toward the wrong side of the fabric ½" (or whatever size your seam allowance is) and press to hold the fold. Repeat with the second long edge.
Step 2: Fold the Strap in Half
Fold the strap in half, matching the long edges with each other along the folds. The raw edges should now be nicely tucked inside the folded strap. Press to hold.
At this point, your strap is ready to finish! The next step depends on how the short ends of your strap will be used.
Option 1: Enclosed Ends
If the short ends of your strap will be enclosed when you attach it to your project, there's no need to finish them separately. This is the quickest option and is perfect for straps that will be sewn into a seam or otherwise hidden.
Step 3: Topstitch the Strap
Topstitch along both long edges of the strap. Start and stop at the same short end each time to reduce fabric twisting as you sew. This is a good opportunity to try out some decorative stitches or fun accent thread colors to give your project some extra design details.
That's it! Your strap is ready to attach to your project. The short ends will be tucked away when the strap is sewn into place.
Option 2: Finished Ends
If the short ends of your strap will remain visible, you'll want to give them a finished edge. This is a great option for straps that will be used as ties, such as an apron tie.
The process starts with the same folded strap above, but you'll temporarily unfold the ends to finish them.
Step 3: Prepare the First Short End
At one short end, unfold all of the folds. Fold the short end in half with the right sides of the fabric facing and the raw edges lined up.
Sew across the short end, reverse-stitching at the beginning and end.
Step 4: Trim and Turn the End
Cut away the excess fabric from the corners along the sewn section, being careful not to cut through your stitching.
Turn the sewn end right side out. Then fold the long raw edges back inside the strap and smooth everything flat. Press to hold.
Step 5: Repeat on the Other End
Repeat Steps 3–4 with the other short end of the strap.
Step 6: Topstitch the Strap
Topstitch along both long edges of the strap. Start and stop at the same short end each time to reduce fabric twisting as you sew.
Now you have a completely finished strap with clean edges on all four sides—without ever having to turn the strap inside out!
Which Method Should You Use?
Not sure which finish is right for your project? Just look at the short ends of the strap.
Will the ends be enclosed when you attach the strap? Use the Enclosed Ends method.
Will the ends remain visible? Use the Finished Ends method.
Both options begin with the same simple folding technique, so once you've mastered the basic strap, you can easily choose the finish that works best for your project.
Put Your New Skill to the Test!
Now that you've learned how to make a fabric strap without turning a tube, it's time to put your new skills to work!
Our Adjustable Apron project gives you the perfect opportunity to try both techniques in one sitting. You'll use the Enclosed Ends method where the strap ends will be tucked into the finished project for some accessory loops and the Finished Ends method where the ends will remain visible as the apron ties.
It's a great way to practice both variations while creating something useful along the way. Give it a try and see if this simple strap-making technique earns a permanent spot in your sewing toolbox!
Happy Strap Sewing!
Have any questions about straps or need help modifying the straps to work with these methods in a project? Join our helpful Facebook group to post pictures, ask questions, and celebrate sewing wins with other like-minded sewists.