Have you done this alternative method of doing a waistband?

[allnaturalmom]

Instead of inserting the elastic through a casing as per pattern directions, you can zigzag it on, then turn under and topstitch.

Can someone explain this a little better to me. I want to try it.

I've never thought about doing this.

How do you know where to sew it? Do you stretch it as you sew? Is it easy to turn it under when it's all bunched up from the elastic? Wouldn't it be easier to just run the elastic through the casing?

Any insight would be greatly appreciated!
TIA

[orangefoot]

I have done this on the children's trousers.

You measure the elastic - waist less about an inch or so, sew it together to make a waistband then mark the quarters with pins. Pin the quarters marks to your seam - front, side, back, side and then do your stitching stretching the elastic as you sew.

When you turn it in to top stitch you can use a zig zag again and you stretch the whole waistband as you sew again.

Here's a vid on youtube that shows how to do it.

[sewcool]

i do it this way all the time i like it sooo much better!

[allnaturalmom]

Thanks so much.

I'm going to check out that video when dh gets home this evening... He has the high speed, I'm on dial up today.

[sewchris2642]

Use knit elastic, not braided or non-roll. I like swimsuit elastic best. And cut smaller than the waist. Stitching through the elastic will cause some stretch. I cut 4"-6" smaller than the waist measurement. You will need to experiment. I cut 4" smaller for pjs; 6" smaller for day clothes. Pjs need to be looser for comfort; day clothers snugger to stay up without falling.

[allnaturalmom]

Originally Posted by sewchris2642

Use knit elastic, not braided or non-roll. I like swimsuit elastic best. And cut smaller than the waist. Stitching through the elastic will cause some stretch. I cut 4"-6" smaller than the waist measurement. You will need to experiment. I cut 4" smaller for pjs; 6" smaller for day clothes. Pjs need to be looser for comfort; day clothers snugger to stay up without falling.

Thanks for this!

And that demo on youtube was pretty good!

Thanks again!