Expanding an existing elastic waistband

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Sat, 07/25/2009 - 09:41
105stitches
User offline. Last seen 15 years 5 weeks ago. Offline
Joined: 07/25/2009
Posts: 1

I am so happy to have found this site.  I just know someone out there can answer my question.

I have an elderly client who I normally do basic hemming and alteration jobs for and she recently ordered a couple of pairs of shorts that are too tight around the waist.  The elastic is wide with three rows of stitches and then secured at the bottom as well.  She said she'd be happy with my opening the sides and just putting in a piece of fabric.  I don't think that would be the best way to do it but she's the type of client who wants a professional product but not willing to pay what I would have to charge her to remove the entire elastic and putting in a longer piece.

I would appreciate any input on this situation.  Any tips or tricks out there that anyone could suggest to make this a quick and inexpensive fix for her?

I thank you all in advance for considering my situation.

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Mon, 07/27/2009 - 11:22
#1
Nehzat
User offline. Last seen 1 year 12 weeks ago. Offline
Instructor
Joined: 10/27/2007
Posts: 1026
Re: Expanding an existing elastic waistband

Hi,

If I was in you shoes, I would  undo the center front stitches by about 20 cm, then cut off about 18 cm the of the elastic band here, then secure the rows of stitches and you are done. 

If you want the waist to be less wide, you can undo fewer stitches and cut less elastic, on the center front. This technique will make the pants less puffy over the tummy area, which would make any woman happy.

To make the waist even larger you can do the same for the center back.

Let me know how it goes.

Nehzat

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