How to Alter a Pants Pattern

Altering a pants pattern is a valuable skill for any sewist, as it allows you to customize your clothing to fit your unique body shape and preferences. Whether you need to adjust the length, width, or add a pocket, understanding how to modify a pants pattern can make a significant difference in the comfort and style of your garments. In this article, we will guide you through the process of altering a pants pattern, from gathering the necessary materials to making the actual adjustments and cutting the fabric.

1. Gather the Necessary Materials

Before you begin altering your pants pattern, make sure you have all the essential tools and materials at hand. These include:

– The original pants pattern
– Fabric scissors
– Ruler
– Fabric chalk or pen
– Seam gauge
– Fabric or paper to trace new pattern pieces

2. Analyze the Original Pattern

Take a close look at the original pants pattern to identify the areas that need alteration. Common adjustments include:

– Lengthening or shortening the inseam
– Narrowing or widening the waist and hips
– Adding or removing pockets
– Adjusting the rise

3. Make the Adjustments

To make the necessary adjustments, follow these steps:

– Trace the original pattern pieces onto your fabric or paper.
– Mark the areas where you need to make changes, such as adding or subtracting length, width, or notches.
– Draw new lines to create the desired shape and size.
– Add any additional notches or markings to help you align the pattern pieces later.

4. Test the Adjusted Pattern

Before cutting your fabric, it’s essential to test the adjusted pattern on a piece of scrap fabric. This will help you identify any potential fitting issues and make any necessary adjustments before cutting into your main fabric.

– Pin the pattern pieces to the scrap fabric, ensuring they are aligned correctly.
– Cut out the pattern pieces and sew them together as per the original pattern instructions.
– Try on the garment to check the fit and make any further adjustments if needed.

5. Cut the Fabric

Once you are satisfied with the fit of the adjusted pattern, proceed to cut your main fabric. Be sure to follow the grainline and pattern placement instructions to ensure the best results.

6. Sew the Garment

Now that you have your fabric cut and pattern adjusted, follow the original pattern instructions to sew your pants. Pay close attention to the new adjustments you’ve made, such as the altered inseam length or waist width.

7. Final Touches

After sewing the garment, make any final touches, such as pressing the seams, adding buttons or zippers, and trimming threads. Your custom-fitted pants are now ready to wear!

Conclusion

Altering a pants pattern can be a challenging but rewarding task. By following these steps, you can create a garment that fits perfectly and reflects your personal style. With practice, you’ll become more comfortable with pattern alterations and can continue to customize your clothing to suit your needs. Happy sewing!