Belt loops

As a general rule, two belt loops are sewn onto dresses and coats at the side seams; four loops onto skirts positioned halfway between the side and centre back and front seams; and five onto pants positioned as on a skirt and adding an additional loop at the centre back.  Determine how many belt loops you would like on your garment. The finished loops should be 1 cm (3/8")longer than the waist-band width. Measure the waistband width, add 1 cm (3/8") ease and a 25 mm (1") seam allowance. Multi-ply this measure by the number of required belt loops to determine the length of the fabric strip. The width of the strip should be twice the finished belt loop width plus seam allowance. Cut a fabric strip to the above measurements. Fold the strip in half lengthwise, right sides together and stitch along the seamline. Trim the seam allowance and press open. Turn the long loop right side out. Press so the seam allowance is centred. Topstitch close to both edges of the strip. Cut the strip into the desired number of loops, equal in length. If the loops are to be sewn into the bottom waistband edge, pin in place prior to attaching the bottom edge of the waistband to the garment. If the loops are to be sewn to the bottom waistband edge after the waistband is attached, fold under 7 mm (1/4") and topstitch or bartack in place. For the top end of the belt loop, fold under 7 mm (1/4") and topstitch or bar tack to the top edge of the waistband. You can also add belt loops to finished garments. TIP: Bartack 60 is most suited for securing belt loops.