If you’ve ever found yourself with a shirt that doesn’t quite fit the way you want it to, don’t despair! Altering a shirt is a relatively easy task that can be completed in a few simple steps. With a few basic sewing skills and a little patience, you can transform a shirt that you don’t love into one that you’ll reach for time and time again.
Before you begin, it’s important to choose the right shirt for alteration. If the shirt is too small, you may not be able to make it larger without adding fabric. Conversely, if the shirt is too large, you can easily take it in by sewing the side seams or darts. Once you’ve selected the shirt you want to alter, gather your supplies and find a well-lit workspace. You’ll need a sewing machine, thread, scissors, and a measuring tape or ruler. If you’re new to sewing, it’s helpful to practice on a scrap piece of fabric before you start working on your shirt.
Now that you have your supplies and a workspace, you’re ready to start altering your shirt! The first step is to determine how much you need to alter the shirt. If you’re making the shirt larger, you’ll need to add fabric. You can do this by sewing in a panel of fabric or by adding pleats or gathers. Adding fabric is a more complex alteration, so if you’re not sure how to do it, it’s best to take your shirt to a professional seamstress. If you’re making the shirt smaller, you’ll need to take in the side seams or darts. Taking in the side seams is a relatively simple alteration, while taking in darts requires a bit more skill. Once you’ve made the necessary alterations, try on the shirt to make sure it fits the way you want it to. If it doesn’t, make any necessary adjustments until you’re happy with the fit.
Determine the Desired Alteration
Assessing the Fit
Before embarking on any alterations, it’s crucial to determine the precise adjustments you want to make. Begin by putting on the shirt and paying close attention to how it fits. Identify areas that are too loose, too tight, or otherwise uncomfortable. Note any specific details you dislike about the fit, such as a gaping neckline or sleeves that are too short.
Defining Alteration Goals
Once you have identified the problem areas, it’s time to define your alteration goals. What specific results do you want to achieve? Consider whether you want to make the shirt looser or tighter, shorten or lengthen the sleeves, or adjust the neckline. Determine the desired level of change, whether it’s a minor adjustment or a significant alteration.
Evaluating Fabric Considerations
The type of fabric used in the shirt will influence the alterations you can make. Different fabrics have different properties, such as elasticity or drape, which can affect the feasibility of certain alterations. Consider the fabric’s texture, weight, and stretchiness when planning your modifications.
| Fabric Type | Alteration Considerations |
|—|—|
| Cotton | Relatively easy to alter, can be taken in or let out |
| Silk | Delicate, requires careful handling, may not be suitable for major alterations |
| Polyester | Resistant to shrinking, can be more difficult to alter |
| Wool | Can be felted or stretched, making it suitable for both taking in and letting out |
| Linen | Prone to wrinkling, requires precision in alterations |
Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials
Before you begin altering your shirt, it is essential to gather the necessary tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
Fabrics and Seam Ripper
The fabric you choose for alterations should be compatible with the original shirt and complement the intended design changes. A seam ripper is used to carefully remove existing seams, allowing you to modify the shape or size of the shirt.
Measuring and Marking Tools
A measuring tape and fabric marker are necessary to accurately measure and mark the desired alterations. A ruler or yardstick can provide a straight reference line for making precise cuts.
Sewing Essentials
A sewing machine is the primary tool for making the alterations. Additional supplies include thread, needles, and pins. Choose thread that matches the original shirt color and fabric weight. Needles should be appropriate for the type of fabric you are using.
Iron and Ironing Board
An iron and ironing board are essential for pressing seams, giving your alterations a professional finish. Ensure the iron is set to the appropriate temperature for the fabric.
Other Useful Tools
Additional tools that may prove useful include a thimble, scissors, and fray check liquid. A thimble protects your finger while pushing the needle, while scissors ensure clean cuts. Fray check liquid helps prevent fabric fraying at the edges.
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Fabric | Compatible with the original shirt |
| Seam Ripper | Removes existing seams for modifications |
| Measuring Tape | Accurately measures dimensions |
| Fabric Marker | Marks alteration lines |
| Ruler/Yardstick | Straight reference for precise cuts |
| Sewing Machine | Connects altered pieces |
| Thread | Matches shirt color and fabric |
| Needles | Appropriate for fabric type |
| Iron/Ironing Board | Presses seams for a finished look |
| Thimble | Protects finger during sewing |
| Scissors | Ensures clean cuts |
| Fray Check Liquid | Prevents fabric fraying |
Pin and Mark the Adjustments
To ensure alterations are made accurately, marking adjustments clearly is crucial. Secure the shirt flat on a table or ironing board, and pin the fabric to define the desired adjustments.
Shoulder and Sleeve Adjustments
For shoulder adjustments, pin along the shoulder seam, marking the desired width or slope. For sleeve alterations, pin parallel to the existing seam, indicating the amount to be taken in or let out.
Side Seam Adjustments
To alter side seams, pin vertically from the armpit to the hemline, indicating the adjustments needed to achieve the desired fit. Mark both sides of the seam to maintain balance.
Waist Adjustments
If the waist requires alteration, pin horizontally across the waistband, marking the desired width or shaping. Ensure that adjustments are even on both sides to avoid unevenness.
Bust and Hip Adjustments
For bust or hip adjustments, pin vertically from the underarm to the hemline, indicating the amount of fabric to take in or let out. Pin both sides of the darts or seams to achieve symmetrical shaping.
| Adjustment Type | Pinning Instructions |
|---|---|
| Shoulder Adjustments | Pin along shoulder seam, marking desired width or slope |
| Sleeve Adjustments | Pin parallel to existing seam, marking amount to take in or let out |
| Side Seam Adjustments | Pin vertically from armpit to hemline, marking desired fit |
| Waist Adjustments | Pin horizontally across waistband, marking desired width or shaping |
| Bust and Hip Adjustments | Pin vertically from underarm to hemline, marking amount to take in or let out |
Use Appropriate Sewing Techniques
1. Choose the Right Fabric
The type of fabric you choose for your alteration will impact the sewing techniques you use. Lightweight fabrics, such as chiffon and silk, require delicate stitching and a fine needle. Medium-weight fabrics, such as cotton and linen, can be sewn with a variety of stitches and needles. Heavyweight fabrics, such as denim and leather, require a sturdy needle and strong thread.
2. Test Your Stitches
Before you begin sewing on your actual garment, it is a good idea to test your stitches on a scrap of similar fabric. This will allow you to adjust your sewing machine settings and ensure that the stitches are strong and secure.
3. Use the Correct Thread
The type of thread you use for your alteration will also impact the strength and durability of the seam. Use a thread that is designed for the type of fabric you are using. For example, cotton thread is suitable for cotton fabrics, and polyester thread is suitable for synthetic fabrics.
4. Use the Correct Needle Size
The size of the needle you use for your alteration will depend on the thickness of the fabric. A smaller needle is suitable for lightweight fabrics, while a larger needle is suitable for heavyweight fabrics. Using the correct needle size will help to prevent the fabric from puckering or tearing.
| Fabric Thickness | Needle Size |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | 70/10 to 80/12 |
| Medium-weight | 90/14 to 100/16 |
| Heavyweight | 110/18 to 120/19 |
5. Use a Strong Seam
The type of seam you use for your alteration will also impact the strength and durability of the seam. A French seam is a strong and durable seam that is suitable for most types of fabrics. A flat-felled seam is another strong and durable seam that is suitable for heavier fabrics.
Adjust the Sleeves
Shortening Sleeves:
- Try on the shirt inside out and measure the desired sleeve length from the shoulder seam to the desired hem.
- Mark the length with a fabric pen or pins.
- Fold the sleeve up to the mark and pin the hem. Fold under the excess fabric by 1/4 inch and press.
- Fold the hem up again by 1/4 inch and press. Topstitch the hem close to the edge to secure.
Lengthening Sleeves:
- Determine how much you want to lengthen the sleeves and purchase fabric to match the shirt.
- Cut a rectangular piece of fabric to the desired length and width. The width should be twice the desired finished width of the sleeve.
- Fold the fabric in half lengthwise and press to create a crease. Align the raw edge of the fabric with the bottom edge of the sleeve and pin.
- Stitch the fabric to the sleeve using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Trim any excess fabric.
- Fold the fabric up to meet the crease and press. Fold the hem up again by 1/4 inch and press.
- Topstitch the hem close to the edge to secure.
| Sleeve Length Adjustment | Fabric Required | Seam Allowance |
|---|---|---|
| Shortening Sleeves | None | 1/4 inch |
| Lengthening Sleeves | Matching fabric | 1/4 inch |
Take in the Body
If you need to make the body of your shirt smaller, you can follow these steps:
- Put on the shirt and mark the areas that need to be altered. Use a safety pin or chalk to mark the excess fabric.
- Remove the shirt and lay it out on a flat surface. Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the amount of fabric that needs to be removed.
- Fold the fabric along the marked lines and pin it in place. Use a sewing machine or needle and thread to sew the fabric together.
- Try on the shirt again to make sure it fits properly. If necessary, make any additional adjustments.
1. Pin the sides of the shirt
Start by pinning the sides of the shirt together, starting from the underarm and working your way down to the hem. The amount you pin in will depend on how much you want to take in the body.
2. Sew the sides of the shirt
Once you have pinned the sides of the shirt, sew them together using a sewing machine or by hand. Use a straight stitch and a thread color that matches the shirt.
3. Try on the shirt
Once you have sewn the sides of the shirt, try it on to make sure it fits properly. If it is still too loose, you can repeat steps 1 and 2 until you are happy with the fit.
4. Topstitch the sides of the shirt
To give the shirt a more finished look, you can topstitch the sides of the shirt. This will help to secure the seams and prevent them from fraying.
5. Hem the shirt
If you have taken in the body of the shirt, you will need to hem the bottom of the shirt to match. To do this, fold up the hem of the shirt and press it in place. Then, stitch the hem in place using a sewing machine or by hand.
6. Reinforce the seams
To reinforce the seams and prevent them from ripping, you can use a variety of techniques:
| Technique | How to do it |
|---|---|
| Zigzag stitch | Use a zigzag stitch to sew over the seam allowance. This will create a strong and flexible seam that is less likely to rip. |
| Serger | If you have a serger, you can use it to finish the seam allowance. This will create a neat and professional-looking finish that is also very strong. |
| French seam | A French seam is a type of seam that is sewn twice, with the seam allowance enclosed in the second stitching. This creates a very strong and durable seam that is also very neat and tidy. |
Reinforce the Seams
9. Reinforce the Shoulder Seams
If you find yourself with a loose shoulder seam, it’s essential to reinforce it to ensure a snug and secured fit. Here’s a detailed guide on how to reinforce shoulder seams effectively:
Step 1: Prepare Your Materials
Gather the necessary materials, including a sewing needle and thread that matches the color of your shirt. You might also need a seam ripper if there are existing stitches that need to be removed.
Step 2: Locate the Seam
Identify the shoulder seam that needs reinforcement. It’s usually located at the point where the sleeve and the bodice meet on the shoulder.
Step 3: Remove Existing Stitches (Optional)
If the shoulder seam already has previous stitches, use the seam ripper to carefully remove them. This step is only necessary if you want to create a completely new line of stitches.
Step 4: Align the Fabric
Align the edges of the fabric on the shoulder seam. Make sure they overlap by about 1/4 inch (6mm) to create a stronger seam.
Step 5: Pin the Fabric
Pin the fabric in place to hold it securely while you sew. Insert the pins perpendicular to the seam, approximately 1 inch apart.
Step 6: Reinforce with Stitches
Using a needle and thread, sew along the pinned seam line. Use small, even stitches to create a strong and durable reinforcement.
Step 7: Remove the Pins
Once the seam is sewn, remove the pins. The reinforced shoulder seam should now be secure and prevent future tearing or stretching.
Step 8: Repeat for the Other Shoulder
If the other shoulder seam also needs reinforcement, follow the same steps to secure it.
Step 9: Test the Fit
Put on the shirt and check if the reinforced shoulder seams fit comfortably. If necessary, adjust the stitches or the fit of the shirt to ensure a well-fitting and durable alteration.
How To Alter A Shirt
Altering a shirt is a quick and easy way to customize it to your perfect fit. If you’re new to sewing, altering a shirt is a great place to start. Here are the steps on how to alter a shirt:
People Also Ask About How To Alter A Shirt
Can I alter a shirt without sewing?
Yes, there are a few ways to alter a shirt without sewing. You can use fabric glue, iron-on patches, or safety pins to make simple alterations.
How much does it cost to alter a shirt?
The cost of altering a shirt will vary depending on the type of alteration and the tailor you choose. However, most alterations will cost between $10 and $30.
How can I alter a shirt to make it smaller?
To alter a shirt to make it smaller, you can follow the steps outlined above. Be sure to measure the amount of fabric that needs to be removed carefully, as you don’t want to make the shirt too small.
