Secure Your Swim Shorts with a DIY Drawstring
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Problem with the Drawstring
- Solutions for a Tighter Fit
- Using a Paracord
- Expanding the Holes
- Running the Cord
- Adding Aluminum Rivets
- The Finished Product
- The Long Version of the Process
- Whitewater Rafting and Swimming Trunks
- Adding a Drawstring
- Expanding the Holes
- Adjusting the Stitching Lines
- Dealing with Seams
- Wrapping up the Process
- Conclusion
🩳 Fixing the Drawstring in my son's Bathing Suit
Have you ever purchased a piece of clothing for your child and found that it doesn't quite fit right? That was the predicament I faced when I bought my son a new bathing suit. While it looked great on him, the drawstring was simply too short to cinch it tightly around his waist, causing it to slip down. In this article, I'll share with you the steps I took to fix this problem, bringing you a DIY solution that made both my son and me happy.
The Problem with the Drawstring
When my son got ready for whitewater rafting, I realized that his new swimming trunks had a design flaw - the drawstring was insufficient in length to provide a snug fit. As a result, the trunks tended to slide down slightly, which was less than ideal during an adventure-packed activity. Determined to solve this issue, I embarked on a creative mission to add a functional drawstring that would keep the bathing suit secure.
Solutions for a Tighter Fit
Using a Paracord
After some brainstorming, I decided to utilize a paracord to create a longer, more effective drawstring. Paracords are known for their strength and durability, making them an excellent choice for this particular DIY fix. Here's how I did it:
Expanding the Holes
To begin, I took a screwdriver and carefully expanded the existing holes in the bathing suit where the drawstring was intended to pass through. It was important not to damage the fabric while doing this, as I wanted to avoid fraying.
Running the Cord
Next, I stripped the inner strands of the paracord and melted the tip to prevent it from unraveling. Using a piece of wire bent into a hook shape, I inserted the melted end of the paracord into the hook and crimped it shut with pliers, ensuring it wouldn't slip out. I then threaded the paracord through the expanded holes, occasionally using the screwdriver to assist in guiding it. When encountering stitching lines, I had to carefully navigate around them, ensuring the cord stayed in place.
Adding Aluminum Rivets
Although the paracord alone solved the problem, I wanted to add a finishing touch to the drawstring by creating custom-designed barrels for the ends. To achieve this, I filed down quarter-inch aluminum rivets in my mini lathe, polishing them to a smooth finish. Finally, I melted the ends of the paracord to prevent them from pulling through the barrels, making the drawstring more secure.
The Finished Product
After successfully adding the paracord drawstring and aluminum rivet barrels to the bathing suit, I was satisfied with the final result. My son could now cinch his swimming trunks securely, eliminating any concerns of them slipping down during his adventurous endeavors. The drawstring not only improved the functionality of the garment but also added a personalized touch with its unique design elements.
The Long Version of the Process
Whitewater Rafting and Swimming Trunks
Whitewater rafting is an exciting activity that demands the right equipment. When my son decided to embark on this thrilling adventure, I wanted to ensure he had the appropriate gear. However, upon purchasing swimming trunks specifically designed for this water sport, we discovered the drawstring's inadequacy. Undeterred, I took it upon myself to make a modification that would keep the trunks secure and comfortable.
Adding a Drawstring
The first step in this process involved the addition of a functional drawstring. Recognizing that the existing one was too short, I sourced a paracord as an ideal replacement. Its strength and versatility made it the perfect choice for this DIY project.
Expanding the Holes
To accommodate the thicker paracord, I needed to expand the holes in the bathing suit where the drawstring would pass through. By using a screwdriver, I cautiously widened the holes without causing any damage or fraying to the fabric.
Adjusting the Stitching Lines
As the paracord had a larger diameter than the original drawstring, I encountered stitching lines that needed to be dealt with. To ensure a smooth passage, I carefully maneuvered the cord around these obstacles, making sure it remained securely in place.
Dealing with Seams
While threading the paracord, I encountered a seam that seemed to be holding well when moved back and forth. However, I wanted to avoid any potential issues, so I decided to go a step further. Using a needle-like piece of wire, I created a tiny arc, allowing me to navigate the seam without compromising the fabric's integrity.
Wrapping up the Process
Thrilled with the progress, I continued expanding the holes, running the paracord through, and adjusting stitching lines until the drawstring reached the other end of the bathing suit. Finally, I added my personal touch by creating aluminum rivet barrels for the ends of the drawstring, giving it a polished and secure finish.
Conclusion
By taking matters into my own hands and utilizing a paracord as a longer drawstring, I successfully resolved the issue of my son's bathing suit falling down. With careful planning and precise execution, the modified swimming trunks became a functional and stylish solution for his whitewater rafting adventure. Sometimes, a little creativity and resourcefulness can go a long way in making clothing items more comfortable and reliable.
Highlights:
- The drawstring in my son's bathing suit was too short, causing it to fall down.
- I used a paracord to create a longer and more secure drawstring.
- The process involved expanding the holes, running the cord through stitching lines, and adding aluminum rivets for a finished look.
- The modified bathing suit provided a snugger fit and eliminated the problem of it slipping down during activities.
FAQ
Q: Can I use any type of cord or string instead of a paracord?
A: While you can use other types of cord or string, a paracord is recommended due to its strength and durability.
Q: Will expanding the holes in the bathing suit damage the fabric?
A: It's essential to be cautious when expanding the holes to avoid fraying or damaging the fabric. Take your time and use a gentle touch.
Q: Are aluminum rivets necessary for the drawstring modification?
A: Aluminum rivets provide a polished finish to the drawstring and prevent it from slipping through the holes. However, they are not essential for its functionality.
Q: Can I apply this method to other clothing items with a similar problem?
A: Yes, this method can be applied to various clothing items that require a more secure fit. Just ensure you adapt the process to suit the specific garment.
Q: Is the modified drawstring comfortable for the wearer?
A: The paracord drawstring provides a comfortable fit when cinched properly. However, it's important not to tighten it excessively, as it may cause discomfort.
Q: Can I remove the modified drawstring if needed?
A: Yes, the modified drawstring is easily removable if desired. Simply reverse the process by removing the paracord and any additional components.
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