Do you have bottoms that seem to wear out and fit loosely to you but those are your favorite pieces that you cannot let go of anytime soon? Worry no more, because there is an effective solution for that problem. You can still wear them by sewing an elastic waistband on each piece so that it will complete fit you again, no matter what size you may be in the coming months.
This article is a tutorial for dummies on how to sew an elastic waistband on worn-out pants, shorts, or skirts.
Step 1
Each garment has a stitch guide so start by unstitching the waist hem. The width of the elastic waistband depends on the waist hem pattern, but if you want to customize your own waistband size, you may do so.
Step 2
Measure your waist using the elastic waistband, mark the end, and cut out the excess. Reduce the measurement by half an inch to make the elastic more functional and to set an adjustable fitting. Then, sew both ends, overlapping by only 1/3”, to form a circle. To make it more hard-wearing, do a backstitch twice if the elastic waistband is too thin.
Step 3
Turn your garment right side out. Using small pins, pin the elastic waistband onto the insides of the waist hem. Be sure to allot at least ¼” of space on the top hem. Continue attaching pins until you fully covered the waist hem. In this process, you need to constantly adjust the garment to fit on the waistband. This technique will allow you to thread the pieces easily because they are properly in place.
Step 4
Turn the garment wrong side up. Fold the ¼” cloth of the top hem and then fold the entire waist hem down to cover the waistband.
Step 5
Use the topstitching technique when you sew the seam. Start stitching from the bottom folded edge until you complete covered the entire garment. Once finished, sew the top edge as well.
Step 6
Turn the garment to the right side. Stretch the newly sewed waist hem and trim out excess threads.
Points to remember:
1. Before you sew the elastic, be sure that it is not twisted. Flat it out onto the waistband.
2. If possible, choose the kind of elastic that is sturdy and not too thin. You’ll know if the elastic is not of a good quality if it feels too light and weak when touched.