Tutorial - Easy Tube Turning

Methods for turning a fabric tube

If you need to turn a fabric tube to the right side, here are a few easy methods: 

Using a DIY turning device

I have an old display base which I use to turn tubes. The first bit of business is to prep the tube for turning. Choose one end of the tube, and at about 2 inches or so up from the end use your thumb or finger to tuck about an inch of the end up inside of itself (see above photo). This makes it look like it has a little fold. 

Next, place the tucked in part onto the stem of the turning device. 

Carefully pull on the sides of the tube to nudge it down toward the bottom of the device. Be mindful that if you tug too hard that the inside may let go and you will need to begin again. 

Allow the end to poke through once you can grasp it without losing it down inside. Continue pulling down until your tube is turned to the right side. 

Other methods: 

Alternatively, you can use a chop stick or any sort of similar item. 

 

 

Another method is to insert a ribbon or string while constructing your tube. Sew across the bottom to secure it in place. Make sure that the ribbon is a bit longer than the tube itself so that you can grasp it and use it to pull the tube to the right side. Once pulled to the right side, just cut off the sewn end and keep the ribbon for another time or project. 

If you would like a free printable PDF copy of this tutorial, it is available as a PDF download on my Google Drive or in the file section of my Facebook group Judy's Sewing Circle.