How to Alter a Shirt That’s Too Small
If you’ve ever found yourself with a shirt that’s a bit too snug, you’re not alone. Many of us have purchased clothing that was just a little too small, either due to a momentary size fluctuation or simply because the store didn’t have the right size. But don’t worry; there’s a solution. Learning how to alter a shirt that’s too small can breathe new life into your wardrobe. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making your shirt fit like a glove.
Materials Needed
Before you start, gather the following materials:
– A measuring tape
– Scissors
– pins
– sewing thread
– needle
– sewing machine (optional)
Step 1: Measure the Shirt
The first step in altering a shirt that’s too small is to measure it. Take a measuring tape and measure the areas where the shirt is too tight, such as the bust, waist, and sleeves. Write down these measurements so you can refer to them later.
Step 2: Determine the Area to Be Altered
Identify the specific areas where the shirt is too small. For example, if the bust is too tight, you’ll need to let out the seams. If the sleeves are too short, you’ll need to take in the sleeves. Once you’ve determined the problem areas, mark them on the shirt with a pen.
Step 3: Cut the Seam Allowance
Using a pair of scissors, carefully cut the seam allowance around the marked areas. Make sure to leave enough fabric to sew back together after the alteration. If you’re not confident in your cutting skills, it’s a good idea to cut a little less than you need, as it’s easier to take out a bit of fabric than to add it back in.
Step 4: Let Out the Seam
If the bust or waist is too tight, you’ll need to let out the seam. Pin the fabric at the new seam line, then sew along the new seam, stretching the fabric as you go. If you’re using a sewing machine, be sure to use a zigzag stitch to prevent the fabric from fraying.
Step 5: Take In the Sleeves
If the sleeves are too short, you’ll need to take them in. Pin the fabric at the new seam line, then sew along the new seam, pulling the fabric taut as you go. As with the bust and waist, use a zigzag stitch to prevent fraying.
Step 6: Hem the Shirt
After you’ve made the necessary alterations, it’s time to hem the shirt. Fold the bottom edge of the shirt up to the desired length, pin it in place, and sew it down. If you’re not comfortable hemming by hand, you can use a sewing machine to create a neat finish.
Step 7: Try On the Shirt
Finally, try on the shirt to ensure that the alterations have improved the fit. If everything looks good, you’ve successfully altered a shirt that was too small. If not, you may need to make further adjustments or take the shirt to a professional seamstress for help.
By following these steps, you can easily alter a shirt that’s too small and make it fit perfectly. Not only will you have a better-fitting shirt, but you’ll also save money by not having to buy a new one. Happy altering!
