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This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was retired in August 2007. It is being provided by “Sew What’s Up,” which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: lovemyfabric
Date: 09-03-2003, 09:34 PM (1 of 10)
I have to take in the waist of a pair of children's jeans. I made 2 darts in the back of the jeans, but it is quite bulky. Should I trim the darts or is there a better way of taking in the waist?
User: lovemyfabric
Member since: 06-06-2003
Total posts: 126
From: MaryW
Date: 09-04-2003, 09:35 AM (2 of 10)
Sometimes you can take them in at the centre back seam.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005
Total posts: 2542
From: jwmcgtl
Date: 09-04-2003, 02:20 PM (3 of 10)
I have to adjust all the waistbands on my jeans. I do it by spliting the waistband ONLY on the wrong side just to the back of the side seam on each side. Then I run elastic through the waistband and fasten it by hand sewing. I cut the elastic for my jeans about 1 - 2 inches smaller than the back waistband.

This method does not look like there is elastic in the waistband. You can still thread your belt through the loops and it keeps the waistband from gaping in the back.

For a child, you might need to take the waist in more and you might see some gathering but they can still wear a belt if they want to.

Adding a dart through the waistband is going to be very bulky and probably uncomfortable for the wearer.

I highly recommend the elastic trick. It can also be used on other pants. You could put the elastic on each side if you wanted to.

Hope this helps.
User: jwmcgtl
Member since: 09-04-2003
Total posts: 4
From: lovemyfabric
Date: 09-05-2003, 08:15 AM (4 of 10)
Thanks. The elastic idea sounds great, I think I'll try it. When you say you split the waistband on the wrong side, do you mean you cut it along the center, all the way across?
User: lovemyfabric
Member since: 06-06-2003
Total posts: 126
From: MaryW
Date: 09-05-2003, 08:40 AM (5 of 10)
Jwmcgtl, welcome to Sew Whats New. :bluesmile :Canada:

Thanks for that super tip too.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005
Total posts: 2542
From: jwmcgtl
Date: 09-05-2003, 10:07 AM (6 of 10)
No. I split it vertically wide enough to thread the elastic through. I use elastic that is slightly narrower (only about 1/8 to 1/4") than the waistband. You are basically making the waistband into a casing.

You want to use a very firm elastic - personally I use Ban Roll. If you use a soft elastic, it will roll and twist.

I am not a good "teacher" so it is difficult for me to explain. Does this make sense?
User: jwmcgtl
Member since: 09-04-2003
Total posts: 4
From: jwmcgtl
Date: 09-05-2003, 10:15 AM (7 of 10)
You may want to cover the ends of the elastic (at the holes) with a small piece of fabric ( I usually use ribbon) so that the "pokies" don't stick the wearer.

After I finish inserting the elastic and securing it, then I sew the ribbon over the hole.
User: jwmcgtl
Member since: 09-04-2003
Total posts: 4
From: lovemyfabric
Date: 09-05-2003, 01:03 PM (8 of 10)
I understand now. Thanks for the great tip!
User: lovemyfabric
Member since: 06-06-2003
Total posts: 126
From: lovemyfabric
Date: 09-07-2003, 04:25 PM (9 of 10)
I put the elastic in the pants yesterday and it worked great. I'll have to do this for myself now, my pants are usually always too big at the back of the waist.
User: lovemyfabric
Member since: 06-06-2003
Total posts: 126
From: jwmcgtl
Date: 09-08-2003, 10:31 AM (10 of 10)
I am glad it helped.
User: jwmcgtl
Member since: 09-04-2003
Total posts: 4
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