Replacing Velcro on Sandals

[KatieSSS]

Has anyone ever replaced worn Velcro on a pair of sandals? They are sort of like the "river" ones here: http://www.roundyboots.com/sandals.html. So they have a strap over the top of the foot and one by the ankle. They are great to walk in and so comfortable, but the Velcro has worn and the straps come loose constantly. Any tips on replacing the Velcro? Hot glue? Or succumb to taking these into a shoe repair shop? The shoes are not quite two years old.

[Worsted Skeins]

You can try Shoe Goo or see if someone you know has an upholstery or heavy duty sewing machine that can stitch through these thick materials.  If you try the latter, you may need to invest in a leather needle for the machine.

Of course, a cobbler could fix it for you too.  And it probably would not be that expensive.

[Christiana]

I'd try hand sewing with strong thread and an embroidery needle, with a thimble or something to push the needle through.

If you can stitch through the original stitching holes, it'll be a lot easier.  If you need to make new holes beyond what you can do with just a needle, you can use an awl or a sharp nail.

[KatieSSS]

Thanks for the tips! First step is seeing if I can remove the current velcro with a seam ripper. If I can't do that, then I might as well give up! :)