How to Alter a Bathing Suit: A Step-by-Step Guide

Bathing suits are a staple in any summer wardrobe, but sometimes they don’t fit quite right. Whether it’s a bit too tight, too loose, or just not the right style, altering a bathing suit can be a great way to personalize your swimwear and ensure it fits perfectly. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of how to alter a bathing suit, from gathering the necessary materials to making the actual adjustments.

1. Gather Your Materials

Before you start altering your bathing suit, gather all the necessary materials. You’ll need a pair of sharp scissors, a seam ripper, a measuring tape, pins, and the fabric or elastic you plan to use for the alterations. If you’re adding fabric, make sure it matches the color and texture of your original suit.

2. Plan Your Alterations

Take a good look at your bathing suit and determine what needs to be changed. Are the straps too tight? Is the skirt too long? Are the seams uneven? Once you’ve identified the problem areas, plan out how you’ll fix them. For example, if the straps are too tight, you may need to shorten them or add an additional strap.

3. Remove the Original Straps

Using your seam ripper, carefully remove the original straps from the suit. Be sure to keep the original straps intact, as you may need to use them as a template for the new ones. If the straps are adjustable, simply shorten them to the desired length.

4. Cut and Attach New Straps

If you need to replace the straps entirely, cut the new straps to the desired length and attach them to the suit using a zigzag stitch. If you’re using the original straps as a template, lay them flat on the new material and trace their shape. Cut out the new straps and attach them to the suit in the same way.

5. Adjust the Skirt Length

If the skirt of your bathing suit is too long, you can easily shorten it. First, measure the desired length and mark it on the skirt. Then, cut the skirt at the marked point and re-sew the edges. If you’re adding fabric to the skirt, cut the fabric to the desired length and width, and sew it onto the skirt using a zigzag stitch.

6. Even Out the Seams

If the seams of your bathing suit are uneven, you can fix this by trimming the excess fabric. Use your measuring tape to ensure that all seams are the same length, and then carefully trim the excess fabric. Re-sew the seams using a zigzag stitch to prevent fraying.

7. Test the Fit

After making all the necessary alterations, try on your bathing suit to ensure that it fits well. Make any final adjustments as needed, and enjoy your perfectly fitted swimwear.

By following these simple steps, you can easily alter a bathing suit to fit your body perfectly. Whether you’re adding a new feature, adjusting the size, or simply giving your swimwear a fresh look, altering your bathing suit is a great way to customize your summer wardrobe.