How to Install Elastic in the Sides of Men's Jeans

Getting a proper fitting pair of jeans is difficult for some, so adding a little extra space in the waist can solve the problem of a tight waistband.

If you find a pair of men's jeans is just a little too tight, adding some elastic to the sides will give the waistband extra room for a more-comfortable fit. Installing elastic into the waist of men's jeans involves a few materials and some simple stitching.

Things You'll Need

• Jeans
• Tape measure
• Elastic
• Sharp scissors
• Needle and thread

Instructions

1. Lay the jeans flat on a table and iron to remove all wrinkles and creases. Measure the waistband of the jeans and compare to the waist measurement for the man who will be wearing the jeans, Write down the difference as this is the amount of elastic you will need to add to the jeans in total to increase the waistband size. Divide the number in half to determine the amount of elastic to add to each side, as you will attach an equal amount of elastic to both sides of the jeans. Cut the elastic based on the length needed so you have two equal pieces of elastic

2. Measure the spot on both sides of the jeans where the elastic will be inserted. Use an equal distance from the zipper on both sides so elastic will be located at equidistant points on the waistband. Use a fabric marker or crayon to mark the locations.

3. Cut through one of the marks, through the entire waistband, stopping the cut where the waistband meets the rest of the jeans. Repeat the cutting process on the other side of the jeans until you have two clean cuts where the elastic will be attached.

4. Attach one end of elastic to one side of the cut waistband using a heavy duty needle and thick thread in a denim color. Secure with a knot or two on the inside of the waistband, Attach the other end of the piece of elastic to the other spot along the waistband at the same spot where the waistband was cut. Repeat the process on the other side of the jeans to add the second piece of elastic.

Tips & Warnings

• To create a larger expansion point for adding elastic, cut a 1-inch section of the entire waistband and remove. Replace the missing section with a longer piece of elastic.

• Only cut through a pair of jeans that no longer fit and are no longer needed as once you cut through the waistband you will not be able to return the jeans to the original condition.

References

• Sew Girls: How to Sew
• Sewing Answers: How Do You Add an Elastic Waistline