How to Sew a Waistband

Calculate the size., Iron the fabric you'll be using if it's wrinkly., Cut according to the calculated dimensions on the selvage., Iron right-sides together lengthwise. , Sew a 1/4" seam along the not-folded long edge and one of the short edges...

12 Steps 1 min read Medium

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Calculate the size.

    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. Step 2: Iron the fabric you'll be using if it's wrinkly.

    Also consider washing the fabric beforehand so it won't shrink. , Shown here is cutting using a mat, ruler, and rotary cutters, but you may use any preferred method. ,, 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. ,, It may help prod out the corners using the end of a dull pencil. ,,, Again, it may prove useful to have the machine on needle-down setting. ,
  3. Step 3: Cut according to the calculated dimensions on the selvage.

  4. Step 4: Iron right-sides together lengthwise.

  5. Step 5: Sew a 1/4" seam along the not-folded long edge and one of the short edges.

  6. Step 6: Press the lengthwise seam open.

  7. Step 7: Pull the fabric through itself (as shown) until completely right-side out.

  8. Step 8: Press the unsewn short edge in a 1⁄4 inch (0.6 cm).

  9. Step 9: Press the band flat so the long seam is directly on the edge (as shown).

  10. Step 10: Sew very closely around the perimeter of the waistband

  11. Step 11: sewing all four sides consecutively.

  12. Step 12: Finished!

Detailed Guide

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

Also consider washing the fabric beforehand so it won't shrink. , Shown here is cutting using a mat, ruler, and rotary cutters, but you may use any preferred method. ,, 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. ,, It may help prod out the corners using the end of a dull pencil. ,,, Again, it may prove useful to have the machine on needle-down setting. ,

About the Author

N

Nancy Roberts

Nancy Roberts specializes in accounting and has been creating helpful content for over 3 years. Nancy is committed to helping readers learn new skills and improve their lives.

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