You could add another piece down the back on one side. This extension would go under the other side allowing room to sew the velcro. Finish the other side and sew velcro along that folded edge. Zippers aren't that hard to insert and can be done by hand. There used to be directions inside the cardboard they came in but I'm not sure they still come in the cardboard. I'm sure there are utube videos out there. Good luck and if you can't figure it out I heard you wanted to take a road trip to MD anyway.lol Bring it over and I'll do it for you. Bows are easy too. PM me if you want help with that too.