How To Adjust A Sewing Pattern For A Different Waist Size
Do you ever find yourself struggling to find pants that fit you just right? Maybe they're too loose in some areas or too tight in others. Well, have no fear - you can easily adjust your pants by tapering or widening them! Read on to learn how.
How to Taper Pants
If you need to taper your pants, you'll want to start by trying them on and determining how much you want to take them in. Pinch the fabric where you want to make the alteration and mark it with a pen or chalk. Repeat this on the other leg.
Next, remove the pants and turn them inside out. Use a seam ripper to remove the seam from the bottom of the pant leg up to where you made your mark. Be careful not to cut the fabric.
Now, you'll want to determine how much fabric you need to remove from each leg. Measure the width of the pant leg at the bottom and subtract the desired width. Divide this number in half, since you'll be tapering both legs.
Starting at the bottom of the pant leg, draw a straight line from the outer edge to your mark. Then, draw another straight line from the top of the leg to where your first line ends. Cut along this line and remove the excess fabric.
Next, fold the cut edges inwards and pin them together. Use a sewing machine or needle and thread to sew a new seam along the folded edge. Turn the pants right-side out and voila! Your pants are now tapered to your liking.
How to Widen Pants
If you need to widen your pants, you'll want to start by trying them on and determining where you need more room. Pinch the fabric where you want to make the alteration and mark it with a pen or chalk. Repeat this on the other leg.
Remove the pants and turn them inside out. Use a seam ripper to remove the seam from the crotch up to where you made your mark. Again, be careful not to cut the fabric.
Now, you'll want to determine how much fabric you need to add to each leg. Measure the width of the pant leg at the point where you want to add fabric and subtract the current width. Divide this number in half, since you'll be adding fabric to both legs.
Cut two pieces of fabric to the desired width and length, ensuring that the grain line of the fabric runs horizontally. Pin the fabric pieces to the inside of the pant leg, aligning the edges and making sure that any patterns on the fabric match up. Sew the fabric pieces to the pant leg using a sewing machine or needle and thread.
Next, fold the edges of the added fabric inwards and pin them together. Use a sewing machine or needle and thread to sew a new seam along the folded edge. Turn the pants right-side out and enjoy your newly widened pants!
Tips & Tricks
When tapering or widening pants, it's important to make small changes at a time. You can always take in more fabric, but it's much harder to add fabric back once it's been removed. Make sure to try the pants on frequently during the alteration process to ensure a good fit.
If you're tapering pants that have a zipper fly, you may need to alter the zipper as well. Simply remove the seam at the end of the zipper and adjust it to fit the newly tapered legs.
When widening pants, try to find fabric that matches the original material as closely as possible. This will ensure that your alteration looks seamless.
Remember - altering pants can be a bit tricky, especially if you're new to sewing. Don't be afraid to ask for help or consult a sewing guide if you're feeling unsure.
With these tips and tricks in mind, you should be able to easily adjust your pants to fit you just right. Happy sewing!
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