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How to Make a Thread Belt Loop

Sometimes a particular shirt or skirt requires a belt, but the belt won't sit exactly where you want it to sit. Constantly pushing and pulling it into place is not an effective option. Adding thread belt loop loops may be the solution. These delicate-looking belt loops, also called swing tack and chain knots, don't add bulk to a garment like fabric belt loops. They are made by simply knotting thread and are stronger than they look. They practically disappear when their thread is the same color as the belt, and they can provide colorful contrast to a garment while keeping a belt exactly where it's supposed to rest.

Things You'll Need

Measuring tape
Scissors
Table

Instructions

- 1
  Measure and cut thread to the length required for one belt loop. Fold the thread in half if you use regular thread.
  
  Regular thread cut to 24 inches then doubled. or folded in half, yields about 1 inch of chain with 4 inches of loose thread at either end to attach it to the garment. For every extra 1 inch of belt loop you need, add 8 inches to your measurement.
- 2
  Tie a slip knot in one end of the doubled-up thread, leaving a 4-inch tail. Lay the folded thread horizontally on a table. From the right, measure 4 inches. Cross the right end of the thread over the left end at the 4-inch mark, creating a loop big enough for a thumb and index finger to fit through. Carefully pick up the loop in your right hand, holding the ends in place with your left hand. Sliding your right thumb and index finger through the loop, grasp the longer thread and pull it through. Tighten until you have a knot at the 4-inch mark.
- 3
  Knot the thread continuously until the chain is long enough. To speed up the process after you're comfortable making slip knots, lay the ends of the thread on your right palm with the shorter end closest to you, curl your middle, ring and pinky fingers around the longer end and hold the shorter end between your thumb and index finger. Maintain a firm grip on those threads. Slip your right hand's thumb and index finger through the loop, and grasp the longer thread, pulling it through the loop until the next knot forms. If you have trouble pulling the knot tight, use your right hand's middle or ring finger to tighten the side of the loop closest to you.
- 4
  Lock the chain when you have enough chain to fit your belt comfortably. Begin a slip knot, but after you pulled the longer thread through the loop, release it and continue to to pull it fully through the loop. At this point, you will no longer have a loop, and your chain will be locked and ready to attach to your garment.

Sewing