This method is working great, so I make the long strip the same way and press them out.
To make lacing loops, I am going to sew a length of my fabric strip (or ribbon) in two places along the back of the waistband, so I measure the back waist band into thirds and mark this with pins.
I think I might take this dress on my vacation this summer. It is very thin so can fit into a small space in my suitcase.
BUT NOW ... HERE IS MY NEXT CHALLENGE!!!
Hmmmm, do I want to turn it into a dress or a top??? I will stare at it on my form for a couple days and hope to have a solution to show you by the weekend.