TIPS & TRICKS
Add neat and functional ties and straps to your me-mades using these top tips and tricks.
1 PICK THE RIGHT FABRIC
Straps and ties are usually functional as well as decorative, so it’s important that you pick the right type of fabric to make them – one that looks nice, but is durable enough to withstand being fastened, pulled, and knotted, too. For sturdy straps, consider using strong woven materials like cotton twill, denim, or canvas. For more delicate ties, opt for lightweight fabrics such as satin, or cotton lawn. Try to match your ties to the rest of your garment for a truly put-together look.
2 CONSIDER CUTTING ON THE BIAS
If you’re making thin spaghetti straps or ties, cutting the fabric on the bias will allow your straps to drape smoothly and stretch a little, making them more comfortable to wear. To find the bias, lay your fabric out and identify the selvedge edge, then take a close look at the weave of the material. The bias sits at a 45 degree angle to the selvedge and the straight grain.
3 STAY STABLE
When making bows and ties that you don’t want to stretch, it’s often a good idea to back the fabric with interfacing or stabiliser before you begin sewing. The extra layer of support will help your straps and ties maintain their structure, and will prevent them from becoming saggy or misshapen over time.
4 USE A ROTARY CUTTER
Never is achieving clean, neat cuts more essential than when sewing straps and ties, which are almost exclusively made of straight edges. Using a rotary cutter and a cutting mat to slice your fabric pieces will make it much easier to cut accurately and efficiently, ensuring that your straps and ties are uniform in size and shape.
5 INVEST IN QUALITY HARDWARE
Your pattern may call for additional hardware such as D-rings, sliders, and buckles to make your ties and straps adjustable. When purchasing hardware, the old saying often rings true – if it’s good, it’s not cheap, and if it’s cheap, it’s not good. Investing in high-quality hardware not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your finished pieces but also ensures that they will withstand regular use and washing.
6 PRESS YOUR SEAMS
Pressing is key to achieving crisp, well-defined seams, another essential when making your own straps and ties. If your fabric can withstand it, use a steam iron to press your seams and straps as you go. If you’re working with a more delicate material, you can use a pressing cloth to protect the
