Ok, I've got an idea in my head for a skirt. I've not found any patterns that match my idea. I'm still new to sewing, so I'm not sure about something.....
I'm gonna have an inch wide waistband, and I don't want it to just fold up, or roll up (my tummy folds in a little bit on itself at my natural waist :-\ )...so I need something to stiffen it. Is that what interfacing does?? Is there different types of interfacing?? How would I know what to get???
Help please :-[
You can buy commercial belting at the fabric store, its a thick woven band that comes in different widths that you can insert in the fabric band to stiffen it up. When I don't need that heavy duty of a waistband I use a waistband interfacing product that's sold in the notions section, basically just a long rolled up strip of fusible interfacing.
What I have done at times for underlining a smaller widthed waistband is with Cotton Canvas Duck. Sturdy enough and will provide support for the weight of the skirt and comfort about the waist.
I would not recommend Iron On Pellon Interfacing. Iron On interfacings have a tendency to buckle and come apart after numerous washings.
Cotton Canvas Duck is found at most fabric stores. So ask for someone to help you in finding it. I use Canvas Duck for Bodices, waistbands, in pleating, Corset Making, etc instead of Iron On Interfacing.
I second the use of cotton duck. It is stiff, lightweight, and natural. You can get a yard for about $5, and it's sold just about everywhere. You can't go wrong with having a yard of it just standing by. You can use it for many things, it's really pretty useful.
Thank you ladies!! Y'all are great!!!!!
You can also buy "No Roll" elastic in 1" widths. I have found that it works well in pajama pants, but have no personal knowledge of how it would work in a skirt.
Randal
I'm also wondering if you don't actually want a *wider* waistband, more on the order of 2-3", which will *sit* on your waist like it's supposed to and be less likely to collapse in on itself.
I can't stand elastic anything. But thanks for the input.
I thought about a bigger waistband, but my waist is 36 inches at the smallest point, then it quickly gets thicker. I want something comfortable, not squishing me in...but not too loose either. I may try a 2 inch waistband, though.
Again...thanks SO much for all the input!!!
The 2" waistband is not a bad solution. It also helps with hiding that gap that you may get inbetween your skirt and your bodice.