How to Insert a Drawstring: 10 Steps
Inserting a drawstring into clothing items like hoodies, sweatpants, or a bag can be quick and simple with the right techniques. In this article, we will explore ten steps to help you correctly insert a drawstring into your garments.
1. Locate the drawstring channel: Examine the garment or item to find the area where you will insert the drawstring. It is usually found at the waistband of pants or the hood of a sweatshirt.
2. Prepare your materials: Gather your drawstring, which should be long enough to thread through the channel and tie comfortably. You will also need a safety pin or bodkin.
3. Attach safety pin or bodkin: Connect the safety pin to one end of the drawstring. If using a bodkin, slide it through the drawstring and secure it in place.
4. Open the channel’s entrance: Spread apart the fabric opening of the channel wide enough for you to insert your attached drawstring with either a safety pin or bodkin.
5. Insert your tool: Slip in both the safety pin/bodkin and one end of the drawstring through the channel’s opening.
6. Push and scrunch technique: Gently push your tool along the inside of the cloth while simultaneously scrunching unthreaded fabric towards it. Gradually move out more fabric as you proceed, this will make it easier to guide your tool.
7. Straighten as needed: As you progress, keep straightening any bunched-up fabric so that both sides are symmetrical and avoid tangling.
8. Exit through opposite opening: Once your safety pin or bodkin reaches the other end of your garment’s channel, gently pull out both ends of your drawstring from either exit point.
9. Adjust for evenness: Ensure that both sides have an equal length of drawstrings hanging out from either opening. You may need to slightly tug either side to achieve this balance.
10. Knot the ends: To avoid them retracting into the channel again, tie each end of the drawstring into a simple knot.
Now you’ve successfully inserted a drawstring into your garment! This skill can be applied to different clothing items and even bags or pouches. Practice these steps until you’re comfortable, and with time, you’ll master this technique.