How to Sew an Elastic Waistband Easily for Beginners #versatilesewin #sewing #sewingtips, by Clara Threads on YouTube. 1 min 3 s.
- Video length
- 1 min 3 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Measure your waist and cut elastic to that length plus 2 cm overlap. Stretch it slightly to check it feels snug but not tight.
Fold the top edge of the fabric over by 1 cm and press it flat. This gives a neat edge inside the casing.
Fold the fabric over again, wide enough to fit the elastic plus 5 mm. Pin along the fold all the way around.
Sew along the lower folded edge, leaving a 5 cm gap open. Backstitch at both ends of the gap so it does not unravel.
Attach a safety pin to one end of the elastic. Push the pin through the gap and feed it around the casing.
Keep hold of the other elastic end so it does not disappear inside. Work the fabric along the pin until it comes out the gap.
Overlap the two elastic ends by 2 cm and sew them together firmly with a zigzag stitch.
Try the garment on and adjust the gather until it sits evenly around your waist.
Stitch the gap closed, catching the elastic ends so they stay flat. Sew through the casing only, not the elastic.
Tips and common mistakes
Use a ballpoint or stretch needle if your fabric is knit, so the stitches do not snap.
Do not sew over the elastic itself when closing the casing or the waistband will not stretch.
Pin the elastic at the side seams before threading so it stays evenly distributed.
Questions
How wide should the elastic be?
A 2 to 3 cm wide elastic is easiest for beginners and sits comfortably. Make the casing about 5 mm wider than the elastic.
Can I do this without a sewing machine?
Yes. Use a backstitch for the casing and a strong zigzag or several rows of straight stitch to join the elastic ends.
What if the elastic twists inside the casing?
Stitch a few vertical lines through the casing at the side seams to hold the elastic in place and stop it rolling.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
