How to make a topstitched elastic waistband

Topstitched elastic waistbands are totally on trend. Find out how to topstitch an elastic waistband properly with our #vikisews_sewinghacks. 👌🏼

1. Cut out a waistband piece following the pattern.

Cut a piece of elastic.

The elastic must be 5 mm (just under 1/4”) narrower than the finished waistband. Suppose the waistband piece is 13 cm (5 1/8”) wide: ((1 cm (3/8”) seam allowance) + (5.5 cm (2 1/8”) wide finished waistband)) × 2.

In that case, the elastic must be 5 cm (2”) wide.

2. Match the waistband’s short edges and stitch them together. Press the seam allowances open.⠀

Overlap the short edges of elastic and stitch them together so that the seam allowances are 1 cm (3/8”) wide.

3. Turn the waistband right side out, fold it in half lengthwise and press.

Using a vanishing fabric marker, put marks at every 2 cm along the fold and the cut edge in a staggered order.

4. Place the elastic inside the waistband; align the waistband edges, pin and machine-stitch 1 cm (3/8”) away from the edge.

5. Distribute the elastic evenly inside the waistband.

Divide the waistband into quarters and pin elastic to the waistband at every quarter point.

6. Join the marks at the fold with marks at the edge by topstitching. Stop 1 cm (3/8”) short of the edge each time.

That’s it! If your waistband is intended for a pair of joggers, make sure to wear them with a cropped top so that everyone can see how perfect the details are. :)

Read more sewing tips on Vikisews Blog:

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How to transfer pattern markings onto fabric

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