D Rings – Sizes, Sewing Tips, and Craft Ideas

D rings are adjustable metal or plastic buckles that are shaped like a capital "D". They are commonly used to temporarily connect a strap or strip of fabric or to make a strap adjustable. They come in many different sizes and finishes including nickel, black, gold, silver, antique gold, gilt, and more. D rings are mainly used for functionality  to make a strap adjustable, but they can also be used decoratively with purse straps and more.

Sewing with D rings

• Always sew 2  together, one on top of the other. This allows the strap you will use to connect to be adjustable and will keep the strap in place.
• Set your D rings with the flat side down on top of your strap.
• Fold the strap over the flat sides of both D rings, and leave at least 1½ inches at the edge.
• Fold about ½ inch of the edge under to hide the raw edge.
• Place the fold under your sewing machine and sew in a straight line through all folds of fabric once forward and once back. Do the same if hand stitching.
• Remove the fabric and move the needle closer to the D rings, about ½ inch. Sew forward and back once again.
• This will help to reinforce the stitches and keep the D rings in place.

 

D Ring Sizes

The size is measured along the flat side from one edge to the other.

Your D ring should be the same width as the strap or fabric that you are using. If the proper size is not available, always choose a D ring that is slightly wider than your strap. If it is bunched around the edges, the fabric will not be able to glide as easily. A larger D ring will not stay in place as securly as a properly sized D Ring.

• ¾"
• 1"
• 1 3/16"
• 1.5"
• 2"

Common D Ring Manufacturers

• Dritz
• Clover
• EZ Notions
• Atkinson Designs

 

D Ring Project Ideas

• Belt buckle on a ribbon or rope belt
• Backpack straps
• Purse handle
• Baby sling
• Ties, add a funky hardware element, or attach them to the thick end for a belt.
• Capes, for an adjustable neckline that will look better than tied.
• Hat or bicycle helmet strap
• Overalls
• Tote bags, use one at a time at the ends of the straps for decoration!

Projects Using D Rings

DIY Dog Collar

For more prjects and ideas, visit ThinkCrafts.com!