Buckles - make or buy?

Hi all, need some advice on acquiring buckles for a wrap skirt I'm making.

I'm using black PVC coated fabric, and want two or three buckles to tie it at the side.

I'm not sure the fabric wil be durable enough to make the straps (and will be to fiddly to fold and hem)

Can I buy buckles and straps?

Would it be a good idea to find some cheap strappy shoes (or handbag) and transfer them?

Is there something else I haven't thought of?

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3 replies since 25th July 2010 • Last reply 25th July 2010

Reply #1:

If your fabric is likely to split after going through a few times you could consider using a canvas tape which you can burn the ends of to seal and put small eyelets in. Or use leather which is easy to punch holes in.

If you main fabric is quiet flexible you may need to re-inforce where the straps attach to stop the fabric from tearing with wear.

You could also back PVC straps with a heavy interfacing if you use a rolling buckle which has a tube that grasps the fabric without the need for eyelets.

Another buckle type has a sliding clasp with a small row of teeth. These don't need eyelets on the strap either but may leave marks and over time weaken PVC.

The buckles that are on kilts that are square with a pin would probably go best with the design you are making. These need eyelets or use leather with punched holes. Try 3/4 inch to an inch in size in a silver colour.

You will need at least 2 buckles. One at waist and one just on the hip level. I have rescued buckles from old handbags at thrift & charity shops. They can be difficult to find that way though as most handbags have just one buckle to adjust the strap. You do get lucky sometimes though.

Hope this helps Happy

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Reply #2:

Thanks Sheila. I hadn't thought about reinforcing a material strap! I'll keep an eye out for suitable handbags too.

I might also look at webbing and those plastic snap-buckles. I'm not sure if I want to go full on cyber, or whether I want to use my skirt for other events.

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Reply #3:

You're welcome Pandora x

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