Belt Buckle Finishing

1. Block your canvas so that it regains its original shape. If the canvas is not badly misshapen and the threads are colorfast, you may be able to use a steam iron and pull the canvas back into shape. Do not iron directly over the threads, but use a damp cloth between the canvas and the iron.

2. Trim the canvas about one third of an inch from the design and clip notches in the canvas as shown. Take care not to clip any threads.

3. Using a fabric glue or other clear glue, secure the canvas "flaps" back against the wrong side of the design. You may need to add more notches to ensure you get a nice even curve. Do not use a glue gun as the glue tends to become lumpy when it dries.

 

4. Flip the canvas over and check that it fits nicely in the buckle (adjust accordingly).

5. Place some glue (you can't use fabric glue for this as it will not adhere the canvas to a metal buckle. Use a clear glue from the hardware store that is safe to get on your fingers, as this might occur.)  in the center of the metal belt buckle (about one inch diameter amount), and press the center of the canvas (wrong side down of course!) onto this glue so that it is lined up to fit the buckle nicely. This secures the center of the canvas onto the buckle and allows you to slowly work around the edges and glue them down to fit evenly and tightly against the buckle.

Et voila!