Fat Quarter Friday Tutorial - Obi belt

Here is another Fat Quarter Friday (ignore the fact that it's Monday) tutorial.
I was inspired by some japanesey fabric I had to make this thick belt. It's great for covering a multitude of sins, can be made in no time at all and makes you look like you have an hourglass figure, even if you don't.

Make the pattern by measuring out as follows. Measure 17cm by 15cm rectangle. Mark out the mid-point on one edge and 4cm in from that edge on the top and bottom. Then draw a curved shape. Fold in half to make sure your curves match.

This pattern piece goes on the fold (on the side edge). Cut one in your fabric, and one of contrasting fabric.

For the straps, cut two strips 50cm by 15 cm. Fold over one end 1cm and press. Fold in half lengthwise, press. Unfold, then fold the two sides in to meet in the middle. Press. Now fold over the original crease and press hard.

Do the same for the other side. REMEMBER that if your fabric has a "top" like mine, you'll need to make a left and a right. You can see here what I mean - one strap is folded on the left, one on the right. This is important for when you attach them later. Stitch the three sides, you don't need to stitch the raw edge.

Make a sandwich with your two front panels - right sides together- then two pieces of sew in interfacing on the outside. Lay the straps with the raw edge even with the raw edge of the front panel (making sure that you get your left and right the right way around).

Pin in place around three sides, and poke the straps throught the bottom. This will keep them out of the way of the stitching and remind you not to stitch all the way around. TIP: Before stitching, hold the belt up with your pattern the right way around and facing out (as you would wear it) and double check the straps are in the right place.

Slowly stitch all three sides, backstitching at the ends and over the straps.

Trim the seams and clip into the corners. If you clip a V out of the seam allowance where you stopped stitching, it will make the next bit easier.

Then fold over the fourth edge, pin, press.

Top stitch all around the front panel.

(ew, I think my machine is due a clean!)

Back view.