Simple adjustments

Reattach Belt Loops

Sew a loose or missing belt loop back onto a waistband so it holds a belt again.

Beginner30 minHand or machine

What you will learn

Check how the other loops are attached, so you can copy the position. Measure how far apart they are.

Examine the loop. It may be sewn at the top and bottom with a small bar of stitches. Find which end has come loose, and remove stray threads with a seam ripper.
Pin the loop in place on the waistband, matching the position of the other loops. The loop should sit evenly spaced from the others, and it should be square to the waistband.
Cut 24 in (60 cm) of strong thread, thread the needle and double it. Knot the ends together.
Turn the loop end under 1/4 in (6 mm) so that the raw edge is hidden. Hold it against the waistband.
Sew a bar tack by hand. Pass the needle through the loop and the waistband in short, tight stitches, side by side, about 1/4 in (6 mm) wide and 1/8 in (3 mm) tall, 6 to 8 times.
Six short parallel stitches pass through the loop and the waistband to form a bar tack.
Check the belt passes through freely. A loop that is too tight will pull. Leave enough room for the belt thickness.
Finish with a knot on the back, then take the needle through the waistband and cut the thread. Do the same at the other end if needed.
Pull on the loop to test the strength.

On denim, push the needle with a thimble and pull the needle with pliers if needed.
Match the loop's number of stitches to the originals.

The loop twists.

It was not square when pinned. Re-pin and sew again.

The loop pulls loose again.

The stitches were too few or too loose. Use double thread and stitch the bar tack at least 6 times.

When to use a professionalTake the garment to a tailor if the waistband fabric is damaged or if the loop was riveted on and needs a machine.