How to Alter a Skirt by Hand

Are you looking to update your wardrobe with a customized skirt that fits perfectly? Altering a skirt by hand is a rewarding and cost-effective way to achieve a perfect fit. Whether you have a skirt that’s too big or too small, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to alter a skirt by hand.

1. Gather Your Materials

Before you start, gather all the necessary materials. You will need a measuring tape, fabric marker, pins, scissors, and the skirt you wish to alter. It’s also a good idea to have a sewing machine on standby for any additional stitching required.

2. Take Measurements

Take accurate measurements of the areas where you want to make alterations. For a skirt, you will need to measure the waist, hips, and the desired length. Make sure to take these measurements while wearing the skirt or a similar garment to ensure the correct fit.

3. Plan Your Alterations

Based on your measurements, decide where you need to make the alterations. If the skirt is too big, you may need to take in the waist or hips. If it’s too small, you might need to let out these areas. Also, consider the length of the skirt and whether you want to shorten or lengthen it.

4. Mark the Cutting Lines

Using your fabric marker, mark the cutting lines on the skirt. For waist and hip alterations, mark the new measurements. For length adjustments, mark the desired length on the hem. Make sure to leave a seam allowance, which is typically 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) on both sides of the cutting line.

5. Cut the Fabric

Using your scissors, carefully cut along the marked lines. Take your time to ensure clean cuts to prevent fraying.

6. Pin the Pieces Together

If you need to reassemble the skirt, pin the pieces together, making sure to align the edges and seams. This step is crucial for maintaining the skirt’s shape and ensuring a smooth alteration.

7. Stitch the Seams

Now it’s time to sew the seams. If you have a sewing machine, use it to stitch the seams. If not, hand-stitch the seams with a needle and thread. Be sure to remove the pins as you sew to prevent any snagging or uneven stitching.

8. Trim Excess Thread and Fabric

After stitching, trim any excess thread and fabric from the seams. This will help prevent any loose threads from unraveling and will give your skirt a polished look.

9. Hem the Skirt

If you’ve shortened the skirt, now is the time to hem it. You can use a serger or a regular sewing machine to create a rolled hem, or you can hand-sew the hem using a blind hem stitch. This will give your skirt a professional finish.

10. Try on the Skirt

Once the alterations are complete, try on the skirt to ensure that it fits perfectly. Make any final adjustments if needed, and you’re all set!

Altering a skirt by hand is a satisfying project that allows you to create a skirt that fits you like a glove. With a bit of patience and attention to detail, you can easily transform a skirt into your new favorite piece in your wardrobe.