For this tip, I give instructions for using grosgrain ribbon in the center of your strap or handle. This helps add strength to a strap or handle and helps prevent materials such as cork, faux leather or vinyl from stretching. Below are the written instructions. If you require diagrams, the PDF is attached below for you to download and save.
1. After the strap/handles are cut to width and length draw a line down the middle, the length of the strap/handles, on the wrong side of the fabric at 1-1/4".
*When making your straps or handles with this method, you’ll cut them half the width that is given in the pattern. So for example, if the pattern says to cut your handles or straps at 4” wide, you’ll cut them 2” wide for this method.
2. Measure and cut grosgrain ribbon to the length of the strap, I cut a bit longer just to be safe. Using double sided wash away tape, place the grosgrain ribbon down the middle of the strap/handles or on each side of the line (depending on the size of ribbon you are using). You can use a washable glue stick for this step but allow it to dry before sewing, so you don’t gum up your needle. You may want to put the straps or handles under something heavy to help hold them down and together.
If you used a grosgrain ribbon that went down the center of the strap, you will need to redraw the center line.
Don't worry if the grosgrain ribbon is not perfectly centered. As long as the line you draw is at the center, that's all the matters.
3. Fold one long edge of the strap/handle to meet the center line you drew and use double sided wash away tape to hold it in place. Repeat this for the other side and other strap/handle. If you’re using a washable glue stick, allow the glue to dry for about 10 minutes before sewing.
4. Sew the strap/handles 1/8" away from the long edge that meets the center line. Repeat this step for the other side. Trim any excess grosgrain ribbon that is longer than the strap/handles
Here's what the strap will look like from the right side, after it has been sewn. 2 lines down the center 1/4" away from each other.
*You can also sew along the folded edges, using 1/8” seam allowance. This will give 4 rows of stitching on your strap.
5. Attach the strap/handles as per the instructions.
NOTES
1. Adding the grosgrain ribbon strengthens the strap and helps prevent the strap/handles from stretching on you. I always add grosgrain ribbon to my straps, even when I use cotton. Folding the strap/handles like this will hide the raw edges.
2. If your machine can handle bulk, you can fold cork, vinyl or faux leather in half, so that all the raw edges are hidden. You will have created what looks like double fold bias tape.
3. You can also make your straps or handles double sided.
