How to Sew a Drawstring Waistband

Hey y’all! Today I’ve got a tutorial on how to sew a drawstring waistband. Ever since I posted the picture of my dark rose French terry Skye Joggers (below) last year on Instagram, people have been asking for a tutorial for that waistband technique, so today I’ve got you covered with a video showing exactly how I did it.

And this outfit? Not only did it give me a chance to show you the waistband technique, they also gave me a chance to sew fancy winter secret pajamas, since it looks like we’re heading for colder than normal temps this year if fall has been any indication. This very well might be my Thanksgiving outfit this year.

For this pair, I sized up one size because I wanted the velvet to be a little more slouchy that the pattern fits when I sew the size I measure at. That was the only modification I made. The stretch velvet fabric was purchased as a Dallas warehouse months ago (I’ve been dreaming of these pants for a while) and the drawstring is grosgrain ribbon.

Want to make your own? I used

• The Skye Jogger pattern (but any elastic waist pattern with a separate waistband will work)
• Fabric as indicated by pattern
• 2 inch wide elastic as called for by pattern
• 2-3 yards of grosgrain ribbon (depending on your size)
• Buttonhole foot
• a bodkin (affiliate link)
• seam guide presser foot (affiliate link)

Watch the video below to see how to sew this kind of waistband. Or, if you prefer, you can also watch on YouTube here. 

With the addition of heels, a blazer (store bought) and a Fairelith Top this outfit is date night or holiday ready.