Soakers Pattern #5293

Starting at waistband, ch 9. 1st row: Sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc in each ch across (8 sc). Ch 1, turn. 2nd row: Working in back loop of each sc, make sc in each sc across. Ch 1, turn. Repeat 2nd row until piece measures 19 inches. Then, working along long edge of waistband, make 132 sc across to other end. Ch 2, turn. Next row: Half dc in each sc across. Ch 2, turn. Following row: Skip 1st half dc, work off next 2 half dc as 1 half dc (2 half dc decreased), half dc in each half dc across to last 2 half dc, work off last 2 half dc as 1 half dc (1 more half dc decreased). Ch 2, turn. Repeat last row until 39 half dc remain. Now dec 1 half dc at both ends of each row until 3 half dc remain. Break off. Sew ends of waistband together. Turn point up to bottom of waistband and sew edges together for 5 inches.

CORD... Cut four 2½-yard strands of yarn. Twist these strands tightly, then double the twisted strands and give them a second twist in the opposite direction. Tie a knot 1 inch in from each end of Cord. Trim ends. Run Cord in and out through center of waistband.