If you're looking for a fun, reusable twist on the classic paper chain, I've got you! In this tutorial I will show you step-by-step how to make your own fabric paper chain links using simple materials you probably already have at home! They're beginner friendly, completely customisable and an amazing scrap buster! Plus with velcro or popper closures, you can rearrange the links any time and store them flat when you're done.
Click below to explore my sewing patterns:
Materials Needed:
- Fabric rectangles
- Fusible Interfacing
- Iron and ironing board
- Scissors or rotary cutter (with cutting mat)
- Ruler
- Pins or clips
- Sewing machine
- All purpose sewing thread
- Velcro (hook and loop) OR poppers/snaps OR fabric glue
Below I have added a link to my recommend sewing supplies on my Amazon Storefront:
Studio Favourites - Amazon Storefront
Please note this is an affiliate link which may earn me a small commission on any products purchased using this link. This is at NO extra cost to you. I can't thank you enough for your support!
Recommended Measurements
You can make your fabric links any size you like - however the dimensions I used that I feel work well are:
Fabric - 10" x 4"
Interfacing - 9" x 4"
Let's get making!
1. Cut Pieces
- Cut fabric to 10" x 4"
- Cut the fusible interfacing to 9" x 4"
- Cut velcro (I cut mine to be 1" long)
2. Fuse Interfacing
- Place the fusible interfacing on the wrong side of the fabric (NOT on the pretty side) with the glue side facing down - leave about 1/2" at each short end uncovered.
- Follow the interfacing manufactureres instructions and iron to fuse.
3. Folding and Pressing
- Fold each short edge (the 4" sides) over 1/2" towards the wrong side of the fabric and press with the iron.
- Fold each long edge (the 10" sides) over 1/2" towards the wrong side and press with the iron.
- Fold the whole piece in half lengthways (so the two long folded edges meet), press flat and clip or pin so the edges stay aligned. You should now have a long narrow strip!
4. Sewing
- Using a regular straight stitch, sew all the way around the rectangle about 1/8" from the pressed edge to secure the folded edges. Backstitch at the beginning and end.
5. Adding The Fasteners (Velcro / Poppers / Glue)
Important orientation step (do this before attaching anything)
Check where the ends will meet.
- Lay the finished strip flat. Fold it into a circle the way you will join it (one short end overlapping the other) and make note of where the ends meet and overlap. This tells you exactly where to place the velcro (hook and loop) or poppers (snaps) so they line up when joined.
If using velcro (hook and loop) follow these steps:
- On one short end, place the hook piece (the rough part of the velcro) on the fabric strip, centred and about 1/8" from the edge.
- On the other short end place the loop piece (the soft part of the velcro) on the opposite side of the fabric strip so that when you overlap the ends they meet and fasten.
- Sew around the edges of the velcro with a regular straight stitch.
- Fold into a ring and fasten the velcro to confirm orientation and that it lays flat.
If using poppers (snaps) follow these steps:
- Using a snap tool or pliers - put the male snap on one short end and the female snap on the other short end (on the opposite side of the fabric strip).
- Close the snap with the tool.
- Test by snapping together and checking that the links lay flat.
If using glue follow these steps:
- Apply a strip of fabric glue to the overlap area on one short edge.
- Press the opposite end onto it and let it dry completely according to glue instructions.
Final Steps
- Repeat the above steps until you have the desired amount of links!
- Trim away any loose threads.
- Attach the links together and then your project is complete!
Don't forget to tag me in your groovy creations! @GroovyOoze on instagram!
Below is a link to my sewing patterns, thank you so much for your support!