How to Alter Shirts: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you tired of shirts that don’t quite fit? Whether it’s a too-large collar, a too-tight sleeve, or a hem that’s too short, altering shirts can be a great way to save money and make your wardrobe more comfortable. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to alter shirts, from choosing the right alterations to the tools you’ll need. Whether you’re a seasoned seamstress or a beginner, these tips will help you achieve the perfect fit for your shirts.
1. Assess the Problem
The first step in altering shirts is to identify the specific areas that need adjusting. Take a close look at your shirt and determine if it’s too big or too small, if the sleeves are too long or too short, or if the collar is too wide or too narrow. This will help you determine which alterations you need to make.
2. Choose the Right Alterations
Once you’ve identified the problem areas, it’s time to choose the right alterations. Here are some common shirt alterations and what they do:
– Shortening the Sleeves: If the sleeves are too long, you can take them in at the cuff or take them up at the shoulder seam.
– Shortening the Hem: To shorten the hem, you can simply cut off the excess fabric and sew it back together.
– Adjusting the Collar: If the collar is too wide, you can take it in at the collar points. If it’s too narrow, you can let it out by adding fabric to the collar points.
– Adding Pockets: If you want to add a pocket to your shirt, you’ll need to cut a piece of fabric, sew it onto the shirt, and then sew the pocket shut.
3. Gather Your Tools
Before you start altering shirts, gather all the necessary tools. You’ll need a sewing machine, fabric scissors, pins, thread, and a ruler. If you’re making more complex alterations, you may also need a serger or overlock machine, a tailor’s ham, and a pressing iron.
4. Take Precise Measurements
To ensure that your alterations are successful, take precise measurements of your shirt and your body. Use a measuring tape to measure the length, width, and circumference of the areas you’re altering. Write down these measurements so you can refer to them as you work.
5. Make the Alterations
Now it’s time to make the alterations. Follow these steps for each specific alteration:
– Shortening the Sleeves: Mark the new sleeve length on the shirt, cut off the excess fabric, and sew the sleeve back together.
– Shortening the Hem: Mark the new hem length, cut off the excess fabric, and sew the hem back together.
– Adjusting the Collar: Mark the new collar width, cut off the excess fabric, and sew the collar back together.
– Adding Pockets: Cut the fabric for the pocket, sew it onto the shirt, and then sew the pocket shut.
6. Press and Finish
After making the alterations, press the seams with an iron to ensure they are smooth and even. This will also help the fabric lay flat and look neater.
Conclusion
Altering shirts is a great way to personalize your wardrobe and make sure your clothes fit perfectly. By following these steps, you can confidently tackle any shirt alteration, whether you’re shortening sleeves, adjusting collars, or adding pockets. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to alter shirts like a pro and enjoy a wardrobe that fits you perfectly.
