
Often I introduce a new pattern by talking about the stroke of inspiration that got me started. But in the case of these ultra quick, ultra cute belts, I’m afraid I can’t take much credit. Page, one of Purl Soho’s owners, has wanted us to make belts for as long as I can remember, I suspect because belts are the perfect vehicle for Page’s favorite thing, a pop of color! Page is a true lover of statement-making color, a dash of neon, a touch of citrus, a burst of tomato. At a recent meeting she breezed into the store wearing a white shirt, white pants, and a blinding orange scarf, managing to make the wild shade seem playful and chic at the same time!
here!
Materials

To make one belt up to 34-inches in circumference:
- One yard of Neon Elastic (if you’re making a belt with a larger than 34-inch circumference you’ll need 2 yards.) I used green in the example.
- Neon Thread to match your elastic. I used Limedrop in the example.
- A large silver Fish Buckle
- A handsewing needle
Pattern
Repeat this for the second end of the belt and you’re all done!
Update 2024: You can explore our current collection of beautiful fabrics and supplies on our page of Sewing Tools + Notions!
Does this have to be hand sewn? If so, why can't you use a sewing machine?
Hi MaryTess. These can be done on the machine. I think sewing multiple layers of the elastic on the machine can be tricky and that is why Molly suggests hand sewing those. Totally give it a try though. Let us know if you have any other questions! -Laura
I am having a hard time finding this simple fish-shape buckle. Joann's does not have it nor does Hobby Lobby. It seems impossible to find it online except sold in bulk. Where do you find it?
Hi Marie-
We sell all of the products featured in our patterns. They are linked in the “Materials” section. Just click on the red text and you will be taken to that item in our online store, purlsoho.com.
Or you can just click on the link below for the fish buckle: https://www.purlsoho.com/purl/products/item/8675-Dill-Buttons-Fish-Buckle
Thank you very much for writing in and please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
I just bought a buckle at Joannes.. The buckle costs more than the elastic
Can you buy these belts anywhere? I use to have every color and loved them. Now I can find them.
HI Tressa-
I'm not sure where you can buy something like this finished but we sell all of the materials to make them yourself! And they are really easy to sew!
Thanks for getting in touch!
Molly
The instructions say to use a piece of elastic 2 inches larger than waist measurement. Then you fold each end back 1 inch around the buckle. But since the buckle is a couple of inches long, wouldn’t this make the finished belt too big?
Hello, Valerie,
Thank you for your question! The D-ring and the buckle are both roughly an inch in legnth, thus adding an inch to the waist measurement as you noted. If you are concerned that this will make the belt too big you could fold back each end about an inch and a half around the buckle, pin it and see how it fits. I’d contiune to play around with the amount you fold around the buckle until you find your desired fit!
Thanks again for writing in! Happy sewing!
Best wishes,
Kumeko