How to Turn Loops Four Ways

There are lots of times in sewing when you need to turn a loop. Spaghetti straps, rouleaux straps, maybe it's a big loop (think scrunchie) or super tiny (like the button loops for our Nicks Dress and Blouse). Whatever the size, the principle is the same, and there are lots of tools and techniques you can use to achieve the same effect. That said, you will be slightly limited as to the width of the finished tube you are going for with a few of these methods, so it's important to know that going in.

We tried four ways to turn loops of various sizes so the next time you have to tackle this step, you can jump right to the right solution for the job! We'll walk you through these methods here or if you prefer, skip right to the video at the end of the post!

SAFETY PIN METHOD

The most DIY of all the versions, this one only requires your tube and a safety pin! Seeing as though the safety pin needs to pass through the tube you will only be able to make a tube that is wider than the widest part of your pin so you will have to take that into consideration. 

1. Sew your tube right sides of the fabric together at the width you would like your finished tube.
2. Angle the beginning and ends of the seam allowance to allow a little extra space for both the pin and extra fabric to move around.
3. Insert the safety pin in either end through only one layer of the fabric. 
4. Push the pin back through the opening you just pinned into.
5. Turn the tube using the pin to pull it through.

RIBBON METHOD

For this method, you will need a piece of narrow ribbon or bias tape that is at least as long as the tube you wish to turn. Something sturdy like grosgrain or cotton should do the trick. 

1. Fold your fabric tube in half right sides together, sandwiching the ribbon or bias tape into the fold.
2. Sew the end of your ribbon to the end of the fabric, close to the edge. Use a short stitch length and backstitch to make sure the ribbon is secure.
3. Sew the tube closed making sure to not sew through the ribbon.
4. Use the ribbon to pull the tube right side out.
5. Cut off the ribbon close to the seam.

Fabric Tube Turner Set

This set from Core Fabrics comes with three different widths of tube. This is the best tool for tubes that will be closed at one end. Choose which tube you need for your finished loop. 

TURNING HOOK METHOD

If you are looking to get the absolute tiniest of loops (like for the button loops of Nicks) then this is the tool for you. 

1. Sew your tube, right sides of fabric together.
2. Pass the turning hook through the tube.
3. Push the hook through one side of your fabric tube.
4. Pull the loop the right way around.

VIDEO TUTORIAL