Do you use French Tacks to secure your lining to your fabric, or to make belt loops. I had never done a french tack before I went to college – but it is a great way to stop a lining from shifting during wear, and a look I really love for belt loops. You can use ribbon, twill tape, or a machine stitch to do french tacks but I like to do them by hand. If you havent’ done a french tack before, here’s how I do them:
1. Start by double threading a needle, so you have a total of 4 threads (2 going through the eye, doubled). Knot your end, and thread it through your fabric – I’m making a sash loop in this picture.
2. Thread the needle through the fabric again forming a loose loop about 2-3 inches in diameter (big enough for your fingers to fit through plus some!).
3. Put your fingers into the loop, and grab the thread – pull another loop through the original loop, pulling the original loop taught. You’re beginning to form your chain.
4. Continue pulling loop through loop until your tack is long enough (usually about 1 inch to tack lining in place – do this on each side seam near the hem for skirts and dresses)
5. Secure your tack by passing your needle through the loop and pulling tight – this will for a knot. You can then join your tack the end point on your fabric or lining. Knot securely.
No Comments