How to Apply Velcro Strips

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You’ve probably used Velcro on clothes or shoes before, but there are so many other uses for it around your home. You can use it to hang decorations, to keep your rug from moving around, or to organize a drawer. [1] Adhesive-backed Velcro works great on most indoor and outdoor smooth surfaces. Sew-on strips are perfect for clothing and fabric accessories, but iron-on Velcro is better for thick fabrics or fabrics that are difficult to sew. We’ll walk you through how to use these 3 types of strips so you’re able to keep your items secure!

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Adhesive-Backed Strips

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  1. The adhesive on your strips won’t stick very well if the surfaces are dirty. You can use any multi-surface cleaner to wipe the items you’re attaching the Velcro to. After cleaning off any dust or residue, dry the surfaces completely with a clean cloth. [2]
    • Rough up a smooth surface with fine-grit sandpaper for an extra secure hold.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Apply Velcro Strips
    The Velcro’s hook side and loop side will each have their own adhesive backing. Peel the protective sheet off the strip to expose the adhesive underneath. Once you take the backing off, be careful not to touch the sticky sides, or else they might not adhere very well. [3]
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  3. Watermark wikiHow to Apply Velcro Strips
    You can use the hook or loop strip on either surface, so it doesn’t matter which one you use right now. Line the strip up with where you want to place it and push it firmly against the surface. Press down on the strip with your palm to make sure it’s flat. [4]
    • Adhesive strips don’t work well on fabrics, vehicle dashboards, or flexible vinyl. They may also come loose if they’re left in direct sunlight.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Apply Velcro Strips
    Peel off the adhesive from the other strip and position it on the second item. Press the strip down firmly so it makes good contact with the material. [5]
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Apply Velcro Strips
    While you can attach the Velcro strips to one another right away, it won’t quite hold at full strength. If you’re worried about the adhesive coming undone, then give it at least a day before putting the strips together. [6]
    • Adhesive Velcro strips won’t stick as well if you peel them off and try reusing them.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Sew-On Strips

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  1. Velcro strips work perfectly to secure fabrics without using a button or zipper. Since sew-on Velcro comes in a roll, measure the area of the fabric where you want to attach the strip. [7] Use a pair of scissors to cut the strip to size. [8]
    • You can buy sew-on Velcro strips online or from big box stores and craft stores.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Apply Velcro Strips
    [9] The hook strip is the scratchy side of the Velcro that holds onto the loop, or soft, side. Since it’s easier to pull the loop strip off of the hooks, set the hook strip on the garment so it points away from your body. [10]
    • If you’re not attaching the Velcro to clothing, then it doesn’t matter which strip you use.
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Apply Velcro Strips
    [11] You can either sew by hand or use a sewing machine to attach the Velcro. Go around each edge of the strip with your needle and thread so the Velcro doesn’t lift up off of the fabric. Be sure you backstitch the seam to make it more secure. [12]
    • Try using the same color thread as the Velcro so it blends in.
    • You can also sew an X through the center of the Velcro to keep it flat against the fabric. [13]
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Apply Velcro Strips
    Position the second strip on your fabric so it lines up with the first piece when you fasten them together. [14] Use your sewing machine or sew by hand to secure the edges of the strip. Backstitch the Velcro so it’s less likely to tear off after using it repeatedly. [15]
    • You can wash and dry the fabric immediately after you sew the Velcro to it.
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Iron-On Strips

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  1. The adhesive on the back of your Velcro strip won’t stick very well if there’s dirt or residue on the fabric, so toss the garment in with your regular laundry. Make sure the fabric feels completely dry before you start, or the strip could come undone.
  2. Fill up your iron with water and turn on the steam setting. Set your iron to the highest heat and let it warm up completely before you start working. [16]
    • Make sure you use an ironing board and keep the oven in a heat-safe place so it doesn’t burn anything.
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Apply Velcro Strips
    The iron-on Velcro has a protective backing on both the hook and loop pieces. Only remove the backing off of 1 piece at a time so it’s easier to work with. Once you remove the backing, don’t touch the exposed adhesive or it might not stick against the fabric well. [17]
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Apply Velcro Strips
    If you’re putting the Velcro on a garment, attach the scratchy hook side so it points away from your body. Otherwise, you can use either of the strips. Line the Velcro strip up on the fabric and push down on it firmly so it stays in place. [18]
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Apply Velcro Strips
    Since the adhesive is heat-activated, it adheres best when you iron it from behind. Turn your fabric over so the Velcro presses against your ironing board.
    • Never iron the front side of the Velcro since you could damage it.
  6. Watermark wikiHow to Apply Velcro Strips
    Press your iron firmly against the fabric, and rub it back and forth to apply heat. Lift up the iron every few seconds so you don’t burn or damage your fabric. After about 90 seconds, let the fabric cool down. [19]
    • If you’re attaching Velcro to delicate fabric, lay a press cloth over the actual fabric for an additional layer of protection.
  7. Watermark wikiHow to Apply Velcro Strips
    Since all steam irons are different, you may not have fully secured the Velcro on the first pass. Pick at an edge with your finger to see if it moves. If the edge stays in place, then you’re finished! If it peels back, go over it with your iron before checking again. [20]
    • Wait 24 hours after attaching the Velcro to wash or dry your fabric again. When you do, close the fastener so lint doesn’t get caught in it.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    What type of velcro should I use when sewing?
    Mia Danilowicz
    Master Tailor
    Mia Danilowicz is a Master Tailor who works onset and on the red carpet in Los Angeles, California. With over a decade of experience, Mia specializes in bridal and gown couturier fittings, garment reconstruction, and custom design. Mia has worked at the Oscars, Grammys, SAG Awards, and Golden Globes. Her clients include a long list of entertainment and fashion industry headliners, major fashion magazines, luxury consumer brands, and popular media. Mia was trained at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising and received her AA in Fashion Design and BS in Business Management.
    Mia Danilowicz
    Master Tailor
    Expert Answer
    There's several different types of velcro you can purchase. There is the adhesive velcro that already has glue on the back, and there is also the self-fastening velcro that you should use when sewing. Make sure you purchase the right type, as velcro with adhesive can get into your needle and mess up the sewing process.
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  • Question
    Which side of Velcro goes on fabric?
    Mia Danilowicz
    Master Tailor
    Mia Danilowicz is a Master Tailor who works onset and on the red carpet in Los Angeles, California. With over a decade of experience, Mia specializes in bridal and gown couturier fittings, garment reconstruction, and custom design. Mia has worked at the Oscars, Grammys, SAG Awards, and Golden Globes. Her clients include a long list of entertainment and fashion industry headliners, major fashion magazines, luxury consumer brands, and popular media. Mia was trained at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising and received her AA in Fashion Design and BS in Business Management.
    Mia Danilowicz
    Master Tailor
    Expert Answer
    Place the outer, smooth side of the Velcro on the fabric. Make sure the first piece goes on the side of the fabric that faces away from your skin. Then, apply the second piece of Velcro on the spot where the garment will attach.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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      Tips

      • Keep the Velcro pieces fastened together whenever you wash the fabric so lint and other laundry doesn’t get caught in it. [21]
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      • If your Velcro isn’t as sticky as before, try cleaning the hook side with a stiff-bristled brush.
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      Warnings

      • Adhesive Velcro strips aren’t as effective on fabrics, dashboards, or flexible vinyl. It may also come undone if they’re left in direct sunlight. [22]
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      Things You’ll Need

      Adhesive-Backed Strips

      • Multi-surface cleaner
      • Cleaning cloth

      Sew-On Strips

      • Scissors
      • Thread
      • Sewing needle
      • Sewing machine (optional)

      Iron-On Strips

      • Iron
      • Ironing board

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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/12-ways-to-hack-your-life-using-velcro-48802
      2. ↑ https://www.anixter.com/content/dam/Suppliers/Velcro/Adhesive%20Guide.pdf
      3. ↑ https://www.velcro.com/wp-content/sc_media/Files/TargetPDFs/us/velcro-brand-adhesive-guide.pdf
      4. ↑ https://youtu.be/LTKJBZIRjCg?t=10
      5. ↑ https://www.velcro.com/support/application-instructions/
      6. ↑ https://www.velcro.com/support/application-instructions/
      7. ↑ Mia Danilowicz. Master Tailor. Expert Interview. 8 January 2021.
      8. ↑ https://youtu.be/L2kvHL-gOrk?t=44
      9. ↑ Mia Danilowicz. Master Tailor. Expert Interview. 8 January 2021.
      1. ↑ https://www.velcro.com/business/customer-service/application-guidelines/
      2. ↑ Mia Danilowicz. Master Tailor. Expert Interview. 8 January 2021.
      3. ↑ https://youtu.be/1xcD9PTc3p8?t=13
      4. ↑ https://youtu.be/tfL4TvJAkFU?t=249
      5. ↑ Mia Danilowicz. Master Tailor. Expert Interview. 8 January 2021.
      6. ↑ https://youtu.be/tfL4TvJAkFU?t=367
      7. ↑ https://www.joann.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-joann-project-catalog/default/dwa7e89090/images/hi-res/project/pdf/0565874P66.pdf
      8. ↑ https://www.velcro.com/support/application-instructions/
      9. ↑ https://www.velcro.com/support/application-instructions/
      10. ↑ https://www.joann.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-joann-project-catalog/default/dwa7e89090/images/hi-res/project/pdf/0565874P66.pdf
      11. ↑ https://www.velcro.com/support/application-instructions/
      12. ↑ https://www.joann.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-joann-project-catalog/default/dwa7e89090/images/hi-res/project/pdf/0565874P66.pdf
      13. ↑ https://www.velcro.com/support/application-instructions/

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