How to Alter a Pencil Skirt
Are you the proud owner of a pencil skirt that no longer fits quite right? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Pencil skirts can be a bit tricky to alter, but with the right techniques and a few simple tools, you can easily tailor it to fit your body perfectly. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of how to alter a pencil skirt, ensuring that it flatters your figure and provides the comfort you need.
1. Assess the Issue
Before diving into the alteration process, it’s essential to understand what needs to be fixed. Is the skirt too tight in the waist or too tight in the hips? Or perhaps it’s too long or too short? Identifying the specific issue will help you determine the necessary adjustments.
2. Gather Your Tools
To alter a pencil skirt, you’ll need a few basic tools and materials. These include:
– A sewing machine or needle and thread
– Measuring tape
– Fabric marker or chalk
– Scissors
– pins
– Seam ripper (if needed)
3. Take Measurements
Measure the areas of the skirt that need to be altered. For instance, if the skirt is too tight in the waist, measure the current waist circumference and compare it to your desired waist size. Similarly, measure the hip area if that’s the problem spot.
4. Mark the Alteration Points
Using your fabric marker or chalk, mark the areas where you need to make the alterations. For a waist adjustment, mark the new waistline on the skirt. If you need to take in the hips, mark the areas where you want to remove the excess fabric.
5. Cut the Fabric
With a pair of sharp scissors, carefully cut along the marked lines. If you’re removing fabric from the waist or hips, cut a straight line from the waist to the hem, ensuring that the new seam is even.
6. Remove Excess Fabric
Using your seam ripper, remove the excess fabric from the skirt. Be sure to leave a small seam allowance (about 1/4 inch) to sew the new seam.
7. Sew the New Seam
Pin the fabric in place, and using your sewing machine or needle and thread, sew the new seam. Make sure to sew the seam evenly and neatly, removing any pins as you go.
8. Hem the Skirt
If you’ve shortened the skirt during the alteration process, you’ll need to hem it. Fold the hem up by 1/4 inch, press it, and then fold it up again by another 1/4 inch. Pin the hem in place and sew it using a straight stitch or a blind hem stitch.
9. Try on the Skirt
After completing the alterations, try on the pencil skirt to ensure that it fits comfortably and flatters your figure. If necessary, make any final adjustments and repeat the process.
By following these steps, you can successfully alter a pencil skirt to fit your body perfectly. With a bit of patience and practice, you’ll be able to make any necessary adjustments to your favorite skirt, ensuring that it remains a staple in your wardrobe for years to come.
