How to Turn Zippered Pants into Elastic Waist Pants

If you're tired of dealing with that zipper that keeps slipping, it is possible to remove it and add an elastic waist.You can also do this when the zipper breaks or you just don't want to replace it.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• waisteband elastic (1/4"-1/2" )
• sewing thread
• needle (or machine)

1. Use a seam ripper or your preferred tool to remove the zipper completely. Also remove any buttons or snaps that may be on the waistband.
   Leave the waistband attached to the pants. Open both ends of the waistband, by removing the stitches.

2. Measure the elastic against your waist line and cut a length of elastic this size. Stretch it just slightly when measuring.
   Attach a large safety pin to one end of the elastic and run it through the waist band to the other end.

3. Sew the two ends of the elastic together. Then sew the side seam where the zipper was and the waist band ends back together.
   It may be a little difficult to fit them and you may have to trim excess fabric from the zipper opening .

Tips & Warnings

• If there was a seam on the opposite side of the waist band you will have to open that and resew it also.
• If it doesn't look like the pants are going to be loose enough at the top you will have to remove the darts and any pleats that may be in the front.