How to Alter Readymade Blouses: A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you tired of your favorite readymade blouse not fitting quite right? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many of us have found ourselves in a similar situation, longing for a blouse that fits perfectly. The good news is that altering a readymade blouse is a straightforward process that can be done with a few simple tools and a bit of patience. In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of how to alter readymade blouses, ensuring that you end up with a garment that fits like a second skin.
1. Assess the Fitting Issues
Before diving into the alteration process, it’s essential to identify the specific fitting issues with your blouse. Common problems include a tight bust, wide shoulders, long sleeves, or a loose waist. Take note of these issues as they will guide you in determining the necessary alterations.
2. Gather Your Tools
To alter your blouse, you’ll need a few basic tools, including a sewing machine, a pair of sharp scissors, pins, a measuring tape, and a needle and thread. Make sure you have all these items on hand before you begin.
3. Mark the Alteration Points
Using a measuring tape, mark the areas where you need to make adjustments on the blouse. For example, if the bust is too tight, mark the points where you want to take in the fabric. If the sleeves are too long, mark the desired sleeve length. This will help you visualize the changes and ensure that the alterations are even.
4. Cut the Fabric
Once you have marked the alteration points, carefully cut the fabric along the marked lines. Make sure to leave a seam allowance, which is typically about 1/4 inch (6 mm) on each side of the cut. This will allow you to sew the fabric back together after making the necessary adjustments.
5. Make the Necessary Adjustments
Now it’s time to make the alterations. If the bust is too tight, take in the side seams by pinning and sewing the fabric together. If the sleeves are too long, trim the excess fabric and hem the sleeves to the desired length. For a loose waist, gather the fabric by pulling threads together and securing them with pins. Sew the gathered fabric back together to create a gathered waistline.
6. Sew the Seam Allowance
After making the necessary adjustments, sew the seam allowance back together, ensuring that the fabric is smooth and even. Use a matching thread color to make the alterations as invisible as possible.
7. Hem the Blouse
If you’ve made any changes to the hem, such as shortening or gathering, now is the time to hem the blouse. Use a zigzag stitch or a rolled hem to finish the edges neatly.
8. Try on the Blouse
Finally, try on the altered blouse to ensure that the fit is perfect. If you need to make any further adjustments, go back to the previous steps and make the necessary changes.
By following these simple steps, you can easily alter readymade blouses to fit your body perfectly. Not only will you have a garment that looks and feels like it was made just for you, but you’ll also gain valuable experience in sewing and alteration techniques. Happy altering!
