How to Alter a Pencil Skirt That Is Too Big
Are you struggling with a pencil skirt that’s a bit too big for your liking? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many of us have found ourselves in a similar situation, and the good news is that it’s entirely possible to alter a pencil skirt to fit you perfectly. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of how to alter a pencil skirt that is too big, ensuring you can enjoy wearing it for years to come.
First and foremost, it’s essential to gather the necessary materials and tools before you begin. You’ll need a pair of scissors, pins, a ruler, a fabric marker, and, of course, the pencil skirt you wish to alter. It’s also helpful to have a second pair of hands to assist you, especially when it comes to pinning and measuring.
Step 1: Take Measurements
Before making any cuts, it’s crucial to take accurate measurements of the skirt. Measure the waist, hip, and hem of the skirt, as well as your own waist, hip, and desired hem length. This will ensure that the alterations are tailored to your specific body measurements.
Step 2: Plan Your Alterations
Based on the measurements you’ve taken, decide how much you need to take in the skirt. If the waist is too big, you may need to remove a few inches from the side seams. If the hips are too wide, consider taking in the side seams and possibly the inseam as well. Always keep in mind the desired shape of the skirt; a pencil skirt should be fitted but not too tight.
Step 3: Cut the Skirt
With your fabric marker, draw a new side seam line on the skirt, following the desired shape and taking into account the amount of fabric you need to remove. Be sure to mark the waist, hip, and hem measurements as well. Using your ruler and fabric marker, draw a straight line from the waist to the hem, and another line from the hip to the hem. These will be your cutting lines.
Step 4: Pin and Cut
Before cutting, pin the new side seam and hem lines to the skirt. Ensure that the pins are placed evenly and securely. Once everything is in place, carefully cut along the marked lines, using your scissors. Remember to leave a small seam allowance, typically 1/4 to 1/2 inch, to account for the finished edge.
Step 5: Sew the New Seams
Now that you’ve cut the skirt, it’s time to sew the new seams. Using a straight stitch, sew the side seams and inseam together, making sure to follow the original seam lines for a smooth finish. Press the seams open to create a clean, finished look.
Step 6: Hem the Skirt
Finally, hem the skirt to your desired length. You can choose to hem it with a blind hem stitch, a rolled hem, or any other preferred method. Make sure the hem is even and straight, and trim any excess fabric if necessary.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully altered your pencil skirt to fit you perfectly. With these simple steps, you can now enjoy wearing your favorite skirt in a size that complements your body shape. Remember, the key to a successful alteration is patience and attention to detail. Happy sewing!
