Have you ever worn pants with a comfortable waistband that stretches but also lets you adjust the fit? That’s the magic of a drawstring elastic waistband! Today, I’ll show you how to make one yourself. This tutorial works for joggers, pajama pants, shorts, or any garment with a wide waistband. Even if you’re new to sewing, you can create this professional-looking finish that’s both stylish and comfortable.
What You’ll Need for Your Drawstring Elastic Waistband
Before we start sewing, let’s gather everything you’ll need:
| Materials | Tools |
|---|---|
| Fabric for waistband | Sewing machine |
| Elastic (1-2 inches wide) | Scissors |
| Drawstring or ribbon | Pins or clips |
| Fusible interfacing | Ruler or measuring tape |
| Thread that matches your fabric | Bodkin or safety pin |
| Marking tool |
Understanding Your Waistband Pattern
Your pattern should have a wide waistband piece. If you’re using the Sky Joggers pattern like I am, it comes with the perfect waistband. But you can use this technique with any pattern that has a waistband at least 2 inches wide.
The waistband needs to be wide enough to hold both the elastic and the drawstring channel. Remember that about half an inch will be used for the seam allowance when attaching it to your garment.
Step 1: Preparing Your Waistband
First, identify the center front of your waistband piece. Mark this spot clearly with a pin or fabric marker. This is where your buttonhole for the drawstring will go.
Cut a small piece of How To Sew a Skirt Waistband: An Effortless Guide to a Flawless Finish”>Sewing Interfacing? The Essential Beginner’s Guide for Flawless Projects”>fusible interfacing and apply it to the wrong side of the fabric at the center front mark. This gives extra strength to the buttonhole area and prevents stretching or tearing later.
Next, fold your waistband in half with right sides together, matching the short edges. Sew down this edge to create a loop. This will be your complete waistband circle.
Step 2: Making the Perfect Buttonhole
The buttonhole is crucial for the proper functioning of the drawstring. To place it correctly:
- Fold the waistband in half lengthwise, ensuring the raw edges are aligned. This shows how it will look when finished.
- Measure the complete height of the waistband after it has been folded. For example, if it’s 2¾ inches tall and has a ½ inch seam allowance, you have 2¼ inches of visible waistband.
- Mark the center point of this visible area. For a 2¼ inch waistband, your mark would be at 1⅛ inches from the bottom edge.
- Create a horizontal buttonhole about ½ inch wide at this mark. Make sure it’s centered on your center front marking.
Step 3: Attaching the Waistband to Your Garment
Turn your waistband so the buttonhole side faces up (this will be the outside of your garment). Align the waistband seam with the center back seam of the pants. Position the buttonhole at the center front of your pants.
Pin or clip the raw edge of the waistband all around the top edge of your pants, matching any other seams or marks. Sew all the way around the edge with a ½ inch seam allowance.
Then, turn the waistband to the inside, making sure it covers the seam you just stitched. Pin it in place all around. Leave a 1–2 inch opening along the waistband—away from the buttonhole—for inserting the elastic.
Step 4: Inserting the Elastic
Topstitch close to the bottom edge of the waistband to secure it to the pants. Don’t forget to leave the small opening for the elastic!
Measure your elastic by wrapping it around your waist (or the wearer’s waist) and pulling it to a comfortable tension. Cut it to this length plus one inch for overlap.
Attach a bodkin or safety pin to one end of the elastic, then thread it through the gap and around the entire waistband casing. Once both ends meet, overlap them by about an inch and secure with a zigzag stitch. Then close the gap with a straight stitch.
Step 5: Creating Topstitched Channels
This step gives your waistband that professional, store-bought look. Set your machine to the longest straight stitch. You’ll sew multiple rows to create channels.
Turn your garment inside out. Begin sewing approximately ⅜ inch below the top of the waistband and stitch all the way around. Gently pull the elastic as you sew to ensure it’s spread out evenly.
For the second line, stitch about ⅜ inch below your first line. Be careful to avoid the buttonhole area! You may need to adjust your spacing slightly.
Add a third line of stitching about halfway between your second line and the bottom edge of the waistband. These three lines create perfect channels for your elastic and drawstring.
Step 6: Adding Your Drawstring
Cut your drawstring or ribbon to the right length. A good rule is to use the hip measurement plus 18 inches, which gives enough length to tie a bow.
If using ribbon, cut the ends at an angle to prevent fraying. For cord or other materials, tie a knot at each end.
Use a safety pin or bodkin to thread your drawstring through the buttonhole, around the channel, and back out the same buttonhole. Adjust the ends to be even, and you’re done!
Tips for a Perfect Finish
The elastic provides everyday comfort, while the drawstring lets you adjust the fit when needed. Make sure your buttonhole is secure and well-stitched to prevent tearing.
For thicker fabrics, use a larger needle size. If your fabric is slippery, use more pins to keep everything aligned while sewing.
When topstitching the channels, keep an even tension as you stretch. This helps avoid puckering and ensures a clean, polished finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to sew a casing for a drawstring?
Sewing a drawstring casing is simpler than you might think. First, fold your fabric down twice at the top edge. The width of these folds should be slightly larger than your drawstring width. Press these folds flat with an iron. Pin the folded edge in place. Sew close to the bottom edge of your fold. Remember to leave two small openings at the front for your drawstring.
How to turn elastic waist into drawstring?
Converting an elastic waistband to a drawstring is a popular alteration. Start by finding the center front of the waistband. Cut two small vertical slits through the outer layer only. Remove the old elastic using these openings. Create a clean finish around the openings by adding small buttonholes or zigzag stitches. Thread your new drawstring through the casing. It’s that simple!
How to add a drawstring into pants?
Adding a drawstring to existing pants is easy. Locate the center front of the waistband. Make two small buttonholes about 2 inches apart. Cut them open carefully. Attach a safety pin to your drawstring. Guide it through the existing waistband casing. Pull it out through the other opening. Tie knots at both ends. Your pants now have a perfect drawstring closure.
What is the drawstring hole called?
The opening for a drawstring is called an “eyelet” or “buttonhole.” Some sewists also call it a “casing opening.” In commercial patterns, you might see it labeled as a “drawstring opening” or “cord entry point.” These openings are usually reinforced with stitching to prevent tearing.
How to make a waistband casing?
Making a waistband casing starts with measuring. Cut a strip of fabric twice the desired finished width plus 1 inch. Fold the strip in half lengthwise. Press it flat. Open it up and fold each long edge to the center crease. Press again. Fold once more along the original center line. Pin in place on your garment. Sew along both long edges. Leave openings for the drawstring. That’s your perfect casing!
Ready to Wear Your Creation!
Congratulations! You’ve mastered the drawstring elastic waistband technique. This versatile finish works on so many different garments, from casual joggers to pajamas and even skirts.
Try different drawstring materials like cord, ribbon, or even fabric scraps for unique looks. The more you practice this technique, the faster and neater your results will be.
Have you tried making a drawstring elastic waistband before? What project will you use this technique on first? Start sewing today and enjoy the perfect combination of comfort and adjustability in your handmade garments!