What Is a Drawstring?
A drawstring is a simple cord or string threaded through a waistband or casing that allows you to adjust the fit of your clothing. Found on men’s pajamas, ladies’ salwars, saree petticoats, lounge pants, and more, the drawstring is one of the most versatile and timeless closures in traditional and casual wear. Knowing how to tie it properly ensures a comfortable, secure fit that stays in place all day.
What You'll Need
- Your garment with a drawstring (pajama, salwar, petticoat, lounge pants, etc.)
- A safety pin (only if re-threading a lost or replaced drawstring)
Step-by-Step: How to Tie a Drawstring
- Step 1 – Put on the garment. Wear the pajama, salwar, or bottoms and pull them up to your natural waist or wherever you prefer them to sit comfortably.
- Step 2 – Find both ends of the drawstring. Locate the two loose ends of the cord hanging from the front of the waistband. If both ends are on the same side, gently pull one end through to even them out.
- Step 3 – Pull snug. Hold one end in each hand and pull outward to gather the waistband. Adjust until the fit feels firm but comfortable — not too tight, not too loose.
- Step 4 – Tie a simple knot. Cross the right end over the left and pull through to create a basic overhand knot. Pull it tight enough to hold the gathers in place.
- Step 5 – Tie a bow. Make a loop with one end, wrap the other end around it, and pull through to form a bow — just like tying shoelaces. This keeps the drawstring secure but easy to untie when needed.
- Step 6 – Tuck away excess. Tuck the bow and any extra length neatly inside the waistband so it doesn’t show or get in the way.
Tips for Different Garments
- Men’s Pajamas: Tie at a relaxed fit around the hips — not too tight at the waist. A single bow is usually enough for overnight wear.
- Ladies’ Salwar: Tie firmly at the natural waist since salwars are often worn with long kurtas that require movement. Double-knot if needed for active wear.
- Saree Petticoat: Tie snugly at the waist to support the weight of the saree. Tuck the bow in completely so it doesn’t create a visible bump under the saree.
- Lounge & Casual Pants: Tie loosely for comfort at home, or firmer for outdoor wear.
How to Re-Thread a Lost Drawstring
If your drawstring has been pulled all the way through and is lost inside the waistband, don’t worry — it’s an easy fix:
- Attach a safety pin to one end of the drawstring cord.
- Insert the safety pin into the waistband opening and work it through the channel by bunching the fabric along the cord.
- Keep pushing the safety pin through until it emerges from the other opening.
- Remove the safety pin, even out both ends, and tie as normal.
Need a replacement drawstring? Shop our 12 Premium Fabric Drawstrings (Nala/Naada) – Multi-Color Heritage Pack — perfect for replacing worn-out strings on any salwar, pajama, or petticoat.
Shop Our Collection
Browse our wide range of premium Indian ethnic wear — including salwars, pajamas, kurta sets, and more — all shipped fast from Florida, USA.
Looking for a premium pajama with a smooth, easy-to-tie drawstring? Shop our Men’s Red Silk Pajama Pants — crafted in luxurious silk, perfect as a kurta or sherwani bottom for weddings and festive occasions.