Cut the elastic to fit the waist measurement, allowing for a 1-inch overlap. Pin the ends of the elastic together before sewing. Use narrower elastics for lighter fabrics and wider ones for heavier garments. Sew the elastic securely using zigzag stitching or a serger.

Thread elastic through the opening, smooth the area to remain flat, then pin and stitch across the waistband through all layers at each end of the flat area. Join the elastic ends, then evenly distribute the remaining fullness. Stitch-in-the-ditch to close the center back opening.

Sewing the wide elastic band onto the waist of your skirt, shorts, or pants is easy breezy. All you have to do is sew the edges of the elastic together to make a tube. Use a tight zigzag stitch for strength. Next, divide the edge of your skirt’s or pants’ waist into 4 even sections and mark them with a pencil.

How to sew an elastic waistband: There are two basic methods you can use to sew an elastic waistband. One is more time consuming than the other. The easiest way to do this task is to create the casing first, then stitch the casing in place. The third step is to insert the elastic inside the casing. Finally, sew the elastic ends together.