How to Sew a Waistband

Waistbands are an essential part of many clothing items, and are actually quite simple to sew. Here you will find both the instructions and step-by-step photographs to help you create the waistband you want.

Steps

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    Some factors that must be considered are your waist measurement, fastening/overlapping fabric, and seam allowances. The format used here is shown below. You may alter it and adjust measurements accordingly.
    • Seam allowance - 1/4"
    • Lengthwise measurement - waist measurement + fastening space (2-3", depending on the skirt) + seam allowance x 2 + growth room (optional)
    • Widthwise measurement - desired result width + seam allowance
  2. the fabric you'll be using if it's wrinkly. Also consider washing the fabric beforehand so it won't shrink.

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  3. Watermark wikiHow to Sew a Waistband
    Shown here is cutting using a mat, ruler, and rotary cutters, but you may use any preferred method.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Sew a Waistband
    right-sides together lengthwise.
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Sew a Waistband
    Do not sew the remaining short edge.
    • It helps to have the sewing machine on needle-down setting so you can easily maneuver the corner.
  6. Watermark wikiHow to Sew a Waistband
  7. Watermark wikiHow to Sew a Waistband
    • It may help prod out the corners using the end of a dull pencil.
  8. Watermark wikiHow to Sew a Waistband
  9. Watermark wikiHow to Sew a Waistband
  10. Watermark wikiHow to Sew a Waistband
    [2]
    • Again, it may prove useful to have the machine on needle-down setting.
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    If I'm going to have an elastic waistband, what should I do?
    Community Answer
    If you want an elastic waistband, it is essential to make sure you can fit the waistband over your hips, so you don't need to use a zipper in addition to the elastic. To make the elastic waistband, simply measure around the widest part of your hips instead of your waist. Then, measure a piece of elastic that will fit around your waist. Then, when you attach the waistband to whatever you are making, feed the elastic through the band and stitch the ends together.
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      Things You'll Need

      • Fabric (depending on the amount needed)
        • See the first step for some ideas on how much fabric you'll need!
      • Mat and ruler
      • Rotary cutter
      • Sewing machine
      • Iron and ironing board

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      References

      1. ↑ Seleh Rahman. Professional Tailor & Furrier. Expert Interview. 25 June 2021.
      2. ↑ Seleh Rahman. Professional Tailor & Furrier. Expert Interview. 25 June 2021.

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