Modifying The Orlaya Garter Pattern
Sometimes you might not have a scalloped lace edge, or you may prefer to use your lace edge along the top waistband instead. Don’t worry! You can still create a stunning garter belt with the Orlaya Garter Belt pattern pieces. In this tutorial, I’ll walk you step-by-step through modifying the front for the right shape and adjusting the back piece for a G-hook closure.
Step by step and illustrations for modifications.
Step 1. Print two copies of the pattern. Tape the entire front together, but remove all seam allowances except the side seams.
Step 2. Place tracing paper over the front piece. Using a ruler, extend the center front seam line (the middle of the V) down 1" past the lowest point. Draw a perpendicular line at the end — this marks where your straps or ring will attach. It;s important to keep this part a little narrower so that the elastic is folding over itself when sewn, which allows for rings or a strap. In the construction photos i used 10mm picot bra straps.
Step 3. Add seam allowance. I usually eyeball mine, but I like to use the width of my favorite fancy underwear elastic (about ⅜"). Add this allowance on both sides of the center seam, then draw a smooth curve connecting one front point to the other. Freehand or use a curved ruler, just aim to keep the original shape.
Step 4. For the back: tape the back piece to the side back piece, removing the seam allowances along the pointed seam. Now adjust for the closure. The hook-and-eye spacing (1.5") plus the G-hook loops (about 1") totals 2.5". Normally this means adding 1.25" to each side, but I recommend adding 2" to each back piece. This gives extra room for fitting before attaching the G-hook, and you can trim off the excess if needed.
Step 5. On the back center seam (where the closure attaches), measure out 2"-2.5” and mark it. Add seam allowances: ⅜" at the top edge and ⅜" at the bottom edge. Then repeat Step 2. Now draw an elongated curve from the top back center down to the bottom of the back point. ( The elongated part is for fitting the g-hook and making sure there is extra room if needed. This also makes it easy for a g-hook to slide onto.) It’s important to note this area for how wide your elastic and seam allowances are— try to match it with your g-hook width.
Step 6. Draw the second curve that connects the back piece to the center front side seam. Make sure the top curves meet smoothly/flat so the waistband lies flat when sewn.
Step 7. Double check all seam allowances are accounted for, and that the front and back side seams meet nicely at the curve!
Special Note: You can add more width to the waist by extending the bottom edges downward to cover more of the abdomen. Just remember to add seam allowance for elastic.
That’s it! You’ve modified your Orlaya Garter Belt pattern, and it’s ready to cut and sew. Don’t forget to tag me and use the hashtag #OrlayaGarterPattern so I can see your beautiful DIY pieces!
Feel free to leave a comment if this blog helped you, or let me know your thoughts! :)
