Here are some basic steps on how to make alterations to existing garments:
Choose the right garment. Not all garments are created
equal, and some will be easier to alter than others. Choose a garment that is
made of a sturdy fabric and that has simple seams. Avoid garments with delicate
fabrics, beading, or sequins.
Measure yourself. Before you start altering anything, you
need to know your own measurements. This will help you determine how much
fabric you need to remove or add.
Pin and mark the garment. Once you know your measurements,
you can start pinning and marking the garment where you want to make the
alterations. This will help you visualize the changes and make sure they are
even.
Sew the alterations. Once you are happy with the way the
garment is pinned, you can start sewing the alterations. Use a stitching
machine or a needle and thread, depending on the fabric.
Try on the garment and adjust as needed. Once the
alterations are sewn, try on the garment and adjust as needed. You may need to
make minor adjustments to get the perfect fit.
Specific alterations make to
existing garments:
Hemming: This is the most common alteration, and it involves
shortening the length of a garment. To hem a garment, you will need to amount
the desired length and then pin and sew the hem.
Taking in a waist: This alteration involves making the waist
of a garment smaller. To take in a waist, you will need to measure the desired
waist circumference and then pin and sew the garment in the back.
Letting out a waist: This alteration involves making the
waist of a garment larger. To let out a waist, you will need to measure the
desired waist circumference and then pin and sew the garment in the back,
adding additional fabric as needed.
Taking in the sides: This alteration involves making the
sides of a garment smaller. To take in the sides, you will need to measure the
desired side seam and then pin and sew the garment on either side.
Letting out the sides: This alteration involves making the
sides of a garment larger. To let out the sides, you will need to measure the
desired side seam and then pin and sew the garment on either side, adding
additional fabric as needed.
Adding darts: Darts are a way to add shape to a garment. To
add darts, you will need to measure the desired dart placement and then pin and
sew the darts into the garment.
These are just a few of the many alterations that you can
make to existing garments. With a little practice, you can learn to alter your
own clothes and save money on tailoring.
Here are some additional tips for making alterations to
existing garments:
Use a sharp needle and thread, or a good quality sewing
machine. This will help you make precise stitches that will not come undone.
Use the right type of thread for the fabric. For example,
use cotton thread for cotton fabrics and polyester thread for polyester
fabrics.
Backstitch at the start and end of each seam to secure the
stitches.
Press the seams flat after sewing to make them look neat and
professional.
If you are not self-assured in your sewing skills, you can
always take your garments to a professional tailor.
Disadvantages Of Alterations To Existing Garments
Here are some of the disadvantages of alterations to
existing garments:
The garment may not fit perfectly even after the alteration.
This is because the garment was originally made for someone else's body shape
and measurements. Even if the alterations are done perfectly, there may still
be some areas that are not as fitted as you would like.
The alteration may damage the garment. This is especially
true if the garment is made of delicate fabric or if the alteration is done
incorrectly.
The alteration may reduce the lifespan of the garment. This
is because the alterations may weaken the fabric or seams.
The alteration may be expensive. The cost of alterations
will vary contingent on the complexity of the alteration and the skill of the
tailor.
The alteration may take time. This is especially true if the
alteration is complex or if the tailor is busy.
If you are considering having alterations made to a garment,
it is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully. If you are not sure
whether an alteration is right for you, it is always best to consult with a
professional tailor.
Here are some tips to minimize the disadvantages of
alterations:
Choose a reputable tailor who has experience with the type
of garment you want altered.
Be clear about your expectations and ask the tailor to show
you examples of their work.
Be prepared to pay a fair price for the alteration.
Be patient and allow the tailor enough time to do the job
correctly.