{"id":12683,"date":"2018-05-04T14:14:33","date_gmt":"2018-05-04T08:44:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/?page_id=12683"},"modified":"2024-05-07T01:44:34","modified_gmt":"2024-05-06T20:14:34","slug":"alterations","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/","title":{"rendered":"Altering clothes to make them fit: 20 typical clothing fitting problems"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">You have your dream dress on &#8211; but something is not quite right. And that one thing is ruining it for you. Time for DIY <strong>Alterations<\/strong>. Here is an instant diagnostic tool for your fitting issues.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"max-width:560px;margin:30px auto;padding:20px;background:#cfe3e4;border-radius:10px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;\">\n\n  <div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_85 counter-flat ez-toc-counter ez-toc-white ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#Fit_Alteration_Diagnoser\" >Fit &#038; Alteration Diagnoser<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#What_do_you_need_to_do_clothing_alterations\" >What do you need to do clothing alterations<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#Clothing_Alterations_%E2%80%93_and_simple_solutions\" >Clothing Alterations &#8211; and simple solutions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#_1_The_dress_is_too_tight\" >&nbsp;1. The dress is too tight<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#2_Pant_is_too_tight\" >2. Pant is too tight<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#3_Dresspantskirt_is_too_short\" >3. Dress\/pant\/skirt is too short<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#4_Pant_is_too_long\" >4. Pant is too long<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#5_The_dress_is_too_loose_at_the_waist\" >5. The dress is too loose at the waist<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#6_The_Bodice_is_loose\" >6. The Bodice is loose<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#7_Pant_is_too_loose\" >7. Pant is too loose&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#8_Dress_is_too_long\" >8. Dress is too long<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#9_Straps_are_too_long_or_short\" >9. Straps are too long or short<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#10_Addreplace_lining_in_jackets_and_dresses\" >10.&nbsp; Add\/replace lining in jackets and dresses<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#11_Altering_a_neckline_that_is_too_big\" >11. Altering a neckline that is too big<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#12_Wrinkles_at_the_back_of_the_waist\" >12. Wrinkles at the back of the waist<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#13_The_collar_needs_replacement_or_repair\" >13. The collar needs replacement or repair<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#14_Sleeves_not_fitting\" >14.&nbsp; Sleeves not fitting<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#15_Replace_pockets_and_trims\" >15. Replace pockets and trims<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#16_Faulty_fasteners\" >16. Faulty fasteners<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#17_Pant_side_pockets_get_open_without_you_doing_anything\" >17. Pant side pockets get open without you doing anything<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#18_Armscye_Gapes\" >18. Armscye Gapes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#19_Shoulder_droops\" >19. Shoulder droops<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/#20_The_skirt_of_a_dress_looks_limp\" >20. The skirt of a dress looks limp<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h3 style=\"margin-bottom:10px;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fit_Alteration_Diagnoser\"><\/span>Fit &#038; Alteration Diagnoser<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n  <p style=\"margin-bottom:15px;font-size:14px;\">Select the issue you see on your garment:<\/p>\n\n  <select id=\"issue\" style=\"width:100%;padding:10px;margin-bottom:15px;background:#fff;color:#000;border:1px solid #ccc;border-radius:5px;\">\n    <option value=\"\">Choose an issue<\/option>\n\n    <!-- FIT -->\n    <option value=\"tight-bust\">Tight at Bust<\/option>\n    <option value=\"gaping-bust\">Gapping at Bust<\/option>\n    <option value=\"tight-waist\">Tight at Waist<\/option>\n    <option value=\"loose-waist\">Loose at Waist<\/option>\n    <option value=\"bodice-loose\">Bodice Too Loose<\/option>\n    <option value=\"tight-hips\">Tight at Hips<\/option>\n    <option value=\"pant-loose\">Pant Too Loose<\/option>\n\n    <!-- BACK -->\n    <option value=\"sway-back\">Wrinkles at Lower Back (Sway Back)<\/option>\n    <option value=\"broad-back\">Tight Across Upper Back<\/option>\n    <option value=\"back-gaping\">Back Neckline Gaping<\/option>\n\n    <!-- SLEEVES \/ SHOULDERS -->\n    <option value=\"tight-sleeve\">Sleeves Too Tight<\/option>\n    <option value=\"armscye-gaping\">Armscye Gaping<\/option>\n    <option value=\"shoulder-slip\">Shoulder Drooping<\/option>\n\n    <!-- LENGTH -->\n    <option value=\"dress-too-short\">Dress \/ Skirt Too Short<\/option>\n    <option value=\"dress-too-long\">Dress Too Long<\/option>\n    <option value=\"pant-too-long\">Pant Too Long<\/option>\n\n    <!-- STRAPS \/ NECK -->\n    <option value=\"straps-long\">Straps Too Long<\/option>\n    <option value=\"straps-short\">Straps Too Short<\/option>\n    <option value=\"neckline-too-big\">Neckline Too Big<\/option>\n\n    <!-- PANTS \/ CROTCH -->\n    <option value=\"front-crotch-tight\">Tight Front Crotch<\/option>\n    <option value=\"back-crotch-tight\">Tight Back Crotch<\/option>\n    <option value=\"camel-toe\">Front Pulling (Camel Toe)<\/option>\n    <option value=\"baggy-crotch\">Baggy Crotch<\/option>\n    <option value=\"pocket-gaping\">Pant Pockets Opening<\/option>\n\n    <!-- CONSTRUCTION -->\n    <option value=\"zipper-wavy\">Wavy \/ Faulty Zipper<\/option>\n    <option value=\"lining-issue\">Lining Needs Replacement<\/option>\n    <option value=\"collar-damage\">Collar Needs Repair<\/option>\n    <option value=\"skirt-limp\">Skirt Looks Limp<\/option>\n    <option value=\"fabric-pulling\">Fabric Pulling at Seams<\/option>\n\n  <\/select>\n\n  <div id=\"result\" style=\"padding:14px;background:#fff;border-radius:6px;color:#000;\">\n    Select an issue to see causes and fixes.\n  <\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n<script>\ndocument.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\", function () {\n\n  const data = {\n\n    \/\/ FIT\n    \"tight-bust\": {\n      cause: \"Garment too small at bust\",\n      fix: \"Do a Full Bust Adjustment (FBA) or add width at side seams\"\n    },\n    \"gaping-bust\": {\n      cause: \"Too much fabric or dart issue\",\n      fix: \"Reduce dart or do Small Bust Adjustment\"\n    },\n    \"tight-waist\": {\n      cause: \"Waist too tight\",\n      fix: \"Let out side seams\"\n    },\n    \"loose-waist\": {\n      cause: \"Too much ease\",\n      fix: \"Take in seams or add darts\"\n    },\n    \"bodice-loose\": {\n      cause: \"Excess ease in upper body\",\n      fix: \"Take in side seams or adjust darts\"\n    },\n    \"tight-hips\": {\n      cause: \"Insufficient hip ease\",\n      fix: \"Add width at hips\"\n    },\n    \"pant-loose\": {\n      cause: \"Too much ease in pants\",\n      fix: \"Take in side seams or waistband\"\n    },\n\n    \/\/ BACK\n    \"sway-back\": {\n      cause: \"Excess fabric at lower back\",\n      fix: \"Remove length with sway back adjustment\"\n    },\n    \"broad-back\": {\n      cause: \"Back width too narrow\",\n      fix: \"Do broad back adjustment\"\n    },\n    \"back-gaping\": {\n      cause: \"Neckline too loose\",\n      fix: \"Take in center back or adjust neckline\"\n    },\n\n    \/\/ SLEEVES\n    \"tight-sleeve\": {\n      cause: \"Sleeve too narrow\",\n      fix: \"Widen sleeve or adjust armhole\"\n    },\n    \"armscye-gaping\": {\n      cause: \"Armhole too large\",\n      fix: \"Raise underarm or reshape armhole\"\n    },\n    \"shoulder-slip\": {\n      cause: \"Shoulder seam too wide\",\n      fix: \"Move shoulder seam inward\"\n    },\n\n    \/\/ LENGTH\n    \"dress-too-short\": {\n      cause: \"Insufficient length\",\n      fix: \"Add hem extension or fabric panel\"\n    },\n    \"dress-too-long\": {\n      cause: \"Excess length\",\n      fix: \"Shorten from hem\"\n    },\n    \"pant-too-long\": {\n      cause: \"Excess inseam\",\n      fix: \"Hem to desired length\"\n    },\n\n    \/\/ STRAPS \/ NECK\n    \"straps-long\": {\n      cause: \"Straps too loose\",\n      fix: \"Shorten straps\"\n    },\n    \"straps-short\": {\n      cause: \"Straps too tight\",\n      fix: \"Lengthen or replace straps\"\n    },\n    \"neckline-too-big\": {\n      cause: \"Too much fabric at neckline\",\n      fix: \"Take in shoulders or add darts\"\n    },\n\n    \/\/ PANTS \/ CROTCH\n    \"front-crotch-tight\": {\n      cause: \"Front rise too short\",\n      fix: \"Add length to front crotch curve\"\n    },\n    \"back-crotch-tight\": {\n      cause: \"Back rise too short\",\n      fix: \"Extend back crotch length\"\n    },\n    \"camel-toe\": {\n      cause: \"Front crotch too tight\",\n      fix: \"Lower front crotch curve\"\n    },\n    \"baggy-crotch\": {\n      cause: \"Too much crotch depth\",\n      fix: \"Shorten crotch depth\"\n    },\n    \"pocket-gaping\": {\n      cause: \"Hip strain or poor pocket placement\",\n      fix: \"Add ease or reinforce pocket opening\"\n    },\n\n    \/\/ CONSTRUCTION\n    \"zipper-wavy\": {\n      cause: \"Fabric stretched during sewing\",\n      fix: \"Replace zipper using interfacing\"\n    },\n    \"lining-issue\": {\n      cause: \"Damaged or missing lining\",\n      fix: \"Replace or add new lining\"\n    },\n    \"collar-damage\": {\n      cause: \"Worn or misshaped collar\",\n      fix: \"Replace or re-interface collar\"\n    },\n    \"skirt-limp\": {\n      cause: \"Fabric lacks structure\",\n      fix: \"Add interfacing, lining, or use stiffer fabric\"\n    },\n    \"fabric-pulling\": {\n      cause: \"Tight fit or tension issue\",\n      fix: \"Adjust tension or add ease\"\n    }\n\n  };\n\n  const dropdown = document.getElementById(\"issue\");\n  const result = document.getElementById(\"result\");\n\n  dropdown.addEventListener(\"change\", function () {\n    const val = this.value;\n\n    if (data[val]) {\n      result.innerHTML =\n        \"<strong>Cause:<\/strong><br>\" + data[val].cause + \"<br><br>\" +\n        \"<strong>Fix:<\/strong><br>\" + data[val].fix;\n    } else {\n      result.innerHTML = \"Select an issue to see causes and fixes.\";\n    }\n  });\n\n});\n<\/script>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Alterations sometimes become a necessity, like a scenario where your favorite dress is too tight that you absolutely cannot get into it, OR sometimes it is just for the aesthetics like the bootleg jeans which you want to transform into a tapering one.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"706\" src=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/alterations.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11090137\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/alterations.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/alterations-768x452.jpg 768w, https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/alterations-150x88.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 14pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">If you know just what to do and you have your seam ripper and sewing machine, and some time (and patience) there is nothing you cannot do to that dress to make it wearable and turn it, maybe, even gorgeous.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_do_you_need_to_do_clothing_alterations\"><\/span><span style=\"font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 24pt;\"><strong>What do you need to do clothing alterations<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">For simple alterations, you can <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/how-to-use-a-seam-ripper\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"11069755\">do with your seam ripper<\/a> and sewing machine. Sometimes you may have to retake body measurements and need to stitch with a hand sewing needle and thread. Then replacements have to be bought &#8211; like new zipper, buttons etc.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Here is how to go about altering clothes properly &#8211; step by step<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-base-2-background-color has-background\"><strong>Step 1. Understand Fit <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You should know how the garment should fit on your body, given the garment silhouette and your body shape. The shoulders should lie flat, the chest area should be comfortable, and pants should sit well at your waist without the need for a belt to hold them up. You should be able to move around, sit comfortably and maybe even dance around after you have done altering. And you also should not alter the <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/dress-silhouettes\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"8204\">natural silhouette of the garment.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-base-2-background-color has-background\"><strong>Step 2. Measure <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I always take the measurement of the body and the garment to know it should properly fit my body. You&#8217;ll need to measure your body and your garments to determine how much to take in or let out. Chest, waist, hips, and inseam are the basics<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-base-2-background-color has-background\"><strong>Step 3. Gather the tools of the trade<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You will need some essential tools for alterations,like sewing needles, threads of various colors, a sewing machine, pins, a tape measure, seam ripper, iron, and scissors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-base-2-background-color has-background\"><strong>Step 4. Inspect your fabric <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Different types of fabrics behave differently when you sew them and this will affect how you alter the clothing. Stretchy fabrics, for instance, require different techniques compared to woven fabrics. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-base-2-background-color has-background\"><strong>Step 5. Brush up your sewing skills <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Basic sewing skills like how to thread a needle, sew by hand, and use a sewing machine for straight and zig-zag stitches are necessary for most alterations. Seams and Hems: Understand the types of seams and hems used in the construction of the garment, as these are often the first areas to be adjusted in an alteration. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A lot of alterations are made by manipulating and adding darts around the bust, waist, and hips of the garment to take in or let out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-base-2-background-color has-background\"><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Sewing knowhow needed for alterations &#8211; knowing the <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/easy-hand-stitches\/\">different stitches by hand<\/a>, the best 5 <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/invisible-stitches\/\">stitches that do not show<\/a> with which you can sew seams and hems without a sewing machine, the <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/sewing-machine-stitches\/\">basic 20 stitches on your sewing machine<\/a> and the basic knowledge of<a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/all-about-sewing-machines\/\"> how the sewing machine works<\/a> and , the <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/darning\/\">darning stitches<\/a> and other methods for <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/clothing-repair-mending-tears\/\">mending clothes<\/a> if there are tears &#8211; all come handy.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Clothing_Alterations_%E2%80%93_and_simple_solutions\"><\/span><span style=\"font-size: 36pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>Clothing Alterations &#8211; and simple solutions<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"_1_The_dress_is_too_tight\"><\/span><span style=\"font-size: 24pt; color: #33cccc; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>&nbsp;<\/strong><strong>1. The dress is too tight<\/strong> <\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">This is a sad situation to be in. Either you have put on weight, which is sad or you bought a size smaller hoping you will lose weight, which is sadder. Or you may have shrunk the clothing in the wash <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">( Check out the tips in the post &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/how-to-not-shrink-clothes\/\">How not to shrink clothes<\/a>&#8221; to prevent this from happening again) <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">You may have to let out seams or darts. Loosening the side seam and restitching is the most often solution &#8211; you will need extra seam allowance in this case.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Or You may have to add an extra fabric piece if there is no seam allowance to let out &#8211; for this you will need to find matching fabric to the fabric of the dress, with the same care instructions. This extra piece is to be inserted into the seam to add some more width. If it is near joints it is called a gusset &#8211; a rectangular piece is added to give ease.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">You can add lace trims and use<\/span><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">&nbsp;insertion stitches to stitch this piece &#8211; check out this post on <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/insertion-stitches\/\">insertion stitches<\/a> for more details<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">You can find the best ways to deal with the situation in this post &#8211;<a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alter-tight-clothing\/\"> Best tricks to alter clothes that are TOO TIGHT.&nbsp;<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"463\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/add-gussets-to-tight-shirt.57.jpg\" alt=\"alter tight clothes\" class=\"wp-image-6057146\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Pant_is_too_tight\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #33cccc; font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>2. Pant is too tight<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Check out this post on the <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alter-tight-pants-jeans\/\">how to alter tight pants<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"656\" height=\"466\" src=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/tight-pants-alteration-3.jpg\" alt=\"how to add width to too tight pants or jeans\" class=\"wp-image-8058203\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Dresspantskirt_is_too_short\"><\/span><span style=\"font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: #33cccc;\"><strong>3. Dress\/pant\/skirt is too short<\/strong> <\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">You will need to lengthen hemlines. You can do this in many ways like adding ruffles to the hems, or even making a slip extender to wear under the clothing, to give it length.&nbsp; Check out this post on <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/lengthen-dress-skirt\/\">How to lengthen skirts<\/a> for more details on this.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here is a tutorial on<a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/turn-skinny-jeans-into-bootcut-or-flared-ones\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"11098640\"> turning a skinny jeans to a flared one<span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">.<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Pant_is_too_long\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #33cccc; font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>4. Pant is too long<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">For this check out these posts &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/how-to-hem-jeans\/\">How to hem jeans with the original hem<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/shorten-the-length-of-pants\/\">How to shorten the length and hem dress pants<\/a> ; <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/blind-hem-stitch\/\">How to make a blind hem stitch<\/a> ; <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/invisible-hem\/\">Best stitches for invisible hem.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_The_dress_is_too_loose_at_the_waist\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #33cccc; font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>5. The dress is too loose at the waist<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">This involves Tapering of Dresses &amp; Shirts or skirts.&nbsp; You will have to retake <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/how-to-measure-body\/\">sewing measurements<\/a> and add enough ease and then make a new stitching line to the inside.&nbsp;You can also take out excess fabric by adding a dart or two<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">If you got this dress which is much too big, you can add a waistband like the one in this post on <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/diy-swimsuit-cover-up\/\">sewing a beach cover up<\/a> to gather the fullness<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Know more about <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/make-a-shirt-dress-smaller\/\">what to do if your dress is too loose here.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/coverup2.jpg\" alt=\"swimsuits coverup diy\" class=\"wp-image-26470\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_The_Bodice_is_loose\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #33cccc; font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>6. The Bodice is loose<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Here the problem is that the bodice of the&nbsp; dress seems to be too long and bulges\/folds<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">This is a similar problem as the above, but here the bodice alone is loose, not the skirt. It happens if the person stands straight while taking the<\/span><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">&nbsp;body measurements but afterward return to her true posture<\/span><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">&nbsp;of slumping.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">See if the problem can be solved by a tuck straight across the chest area or in the area below the bust if it seems to bulge with extra length there.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Check out the post on<a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/sewing-darts\/\"> sewing darts correctly here.&nbsp;<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Pant_is_too_loose\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #33cccc; font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>7. Pant is too loose&nbsp;<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">This can be read more in detail in this post &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/altering-loose-pants\/\">How to alter too loose pants<\/a> ; <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alter-loose-jeans-to-fit\/\">How to alter loose jeans<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"455\" height=\"322\" src=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/DIY-alterations.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11062962\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/DIY-alterations.jpg 455w, https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/DIY-alterations-150x106.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 455px) 100vw, 455px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Dress_is_too_long\"><\/span><span style=\"font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: #33cccc;\"><strong>8. Dress is too long<\/strong> <\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">This involves Shortening the length of dress, skirt, top, Pants or Jeans- cutting out the extra portion and sewing the hemline again.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">A hem stitch should ideally be not seen on the outside &#8211; hand stitching is the best. Use <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/easy-hand-stitches\/\">easy stitches for hand sewing<\/a>&nbsp;to sew the hem back. Make them small &#8211; 1\/4 inches apart.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Check out the post on 20 <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/how-to-hem\/\">different ways to sew a machine made hem<\/a>; you can also hand sew hems &#8211; Check out this post on the <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/hand-hemming-stitches\/\">17 ways to handmade hems<\/a> . If you are looking for invisibility in the hem, check out this <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/invisible-hem\/\">4 methods to create an invisible hem.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">For jeans you can check out this post on <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/how-to-hem-jeans\/\">shortening and hemming jeans &#8211; 3 different ways<\/a> &#8211; all of them work.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">This post outlines the best way to<a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/shorten-the-length-of-pants\/\"> shorten and hem the length of dress pants.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Straps_are_too_long_or_short\"><\/span><span style=\"font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color: #33cccc;\"><strong>9. Straps are too long or short<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Adjust the length of straps on shirts &amp; dresses; You may have to remake the straps or add adjusting sliders. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Check out this post on <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/how-to-sew-fabric-tubes\/\">making thin fabric tubes<\/a> that can be used for making these straps.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Addreplace_lining_in_jackets_and_dresses\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #33cccc; font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>10.&nbsp; Add\/replace lining in jackets and dresses<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">This is too much trouble if you ask me but sometimes it has to be done. Prewash the lining fabric. You will have to let out the seams and restitch or add it as an underlining and hand stitch it to the garment.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"> You can use<a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/slip-stitch\/\"> slip stitches<\/a> to very unobstrusively sew a lining to your garment.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_Altering_a_neckline_that_is_too_big\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #33cccc; font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>11. Altering a neckline that is too big<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">A neckline which is too wide will gape and expose too much of what you do not want to be shown. There are many solutions to this problem<\/span>.<span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"> Check out the post<\/span><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">&nbsp;on <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/fix-too-big-neckline\/\">How to fix a neckline that gapes<\/a> for these.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_Wrinkles_at_the_back_of_the_waist\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #33cccc; font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>12. Wrinkles at the back of the waist<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">There is extra ease at the&nbsp; back between the base of the neck and waist. You can see this if the hip area is too tight.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">You can try to shape this by taking in some ( 1 cm ) at the side seam or the center seam at the waistline and by loosening the seams at the hip.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_The_collar_needs_replacement_or_repair\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #33cccc; font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>13. The collar needs replacement or repair<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"665\" height=\"437\" src=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/worn-collar.jpg\" alt=\"alterations\" class=\"wp-image-11062963\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/worn-collar.jpg 665w, https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/worn-collar-150x99.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 665px) 100vw, 665px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">If you cannot sew, or you do not have a lot of spare time for repair, this is unrepairable. Usually the fabric has frayed with wear. You can patch it or replace the collar.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">If the collar is looking odd, ask yourself &#8211; Did you cut the collar correctly.<\/span><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"> The outer piece should be cut lengthwise on the fabric and the inner collar piece should be cut crosswise for better stretch. Most of the time problem happens when the collar is too small<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">You will have to replace the whole collar. Check out this list of <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/different-types-of-collars\/\">Dress collars styles<\/a> Here is a <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/polo-collar-sew\/\">tutorial to sew a polo collar<\/a> and<a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/chinese-collar-diy-tutorial\/\"> Tutorial to sew a band collar.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"14_Sleeves_not_fitting\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #33cccc; font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>14.&nbsp; Sleeves not fitting<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">Tightness in the sleeve<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">This is evident especially&nbsp;when you lift up the arm.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">You should always measure&nbsp;a long sleeve with the arm slightly bent. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">One reason for this is because the crown height is lesser. You will have to mark the crown height a&nbsp; little higher next time. If the dress has shoulder pads, you can take it off to increase the crown height a little bit.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Sometimes it becomes tight because you have developed more muscles in the forearm<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">Wrinkles in the crown of the sleeve<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">This is because crown height of the sleeve is more. Add a shoulder pad to immediately solve the problem. Otherwise, let out the seam ,&nbsp;decrease the crown height and sew.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">Wrinkles in the arm of a long sleeve<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">This may be because the sleeve is not fitting for the measurement of the arm of the person.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Cut out armscye slightly. Shapes of armscyes must vary with muscular development around armpits of individuals.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_Replace_pockets_and_trims\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #33cccc; font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>15. Replace pockets and trims<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Pockets can get worn or tear at the pressure points. If simple tear repair would not do it, you can replace the pocket. Check out the post on <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/stitch-patch-pocket\/\">sewing patch pockets&nbsp;<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Trims also may need replacement &#8211; learn how you can <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/sewing-fabric-trims\/\">add trim to edges here<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"16_Faulty_fasteners\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #33cccc; font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>16. Faulty fasteners<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">Zippers break, buttonholes get wider, buttons pop out, thread bars get threadbare, snaps come loose, velcro looses its grip and lacing eyelets pop out.<\/span><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">&nbsp;A garment is virtually useless without its fastener. So you will need to repair these pronto. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Check out posts like &#8221; <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/fix-a-zipper\/\">How to fix zippers<\/a>&#8221; for all your zipper problems; <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/sew-button-by-hand-and-machine\/\">How to sew a button by hand<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/make-sew-button-loops\/\">how to sew button loops<\/a> for solutions to some of these problems. Other fastener solutions are there in these posts : <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/sew-zipper\/\">How to insert a zipper in a dress<\/a> ; <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/fabric-covered-buttons\/\">How to make cloth buttons<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/lacing-as-fastener\/\">How to do the lacing right.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"17_Pant_side_pockets_get_open_without_you_doing_anything\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #33cccc; font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>17. Pant side pockets get open without you doing anything<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">This is because the pants are not fitting around the hips &#8211; it is too tight for you. You will have to find a solution to this problem first. Check out this <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alter-tight-pants-jeans\/\">post on what to do if the pants or jeans are too tight.&nbsp;<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"18_Armscye_Gapes\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #33cccc; font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>18. Armscye Gapes<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">Droopiness in the armscye under the arm.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Make a dart in the back pattern. This may solve this problem&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">If the armscye gapes near the bust you will have to make a diagonal dart to the point of the bust. Do not over pinch or it will be too tight.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">First Let out the seam at the armscye. You may have to add a small diagonal dart from the armscye line near the bust to the bust point on the main bodice.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">If the armscye gapes near the shoulder make a corrective dart at the shoulder. A basic shoulder dart will take out the too much ease.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"19_Shoulder_droops\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #33cccc; font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>19. Shoulder droops<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">If you like a slightly tailored look to the shoulder rather than a droopy look, a shoulder pad can be used. If only one shoulder droops, use on one side alone.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-background-color has-background\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"20_The_skirt_of_a_dress_looks_limp\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #33cccc; font-size: 24pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><strong>20. The skirt of a dress looks limp<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">If you want a puffy look to your clothing (party dresses, kids frocks, long skirts etc), you will have to add extra reinforcement. A simple solution to this problem is to wear a pouffy pettiskirt underneath. There are many ways to make this &#8211; check out this post for more info on <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/petticoat-skirt\/\">making a petticoat<\/a>.&nbsp; You can use a horsehair braid at the hem for the hem to look stiff.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-base-background-color has-background has-large-font-size\"><strong>Eliminate the need for alterations<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Whether as an option or a necessity, alterations are something I do not enjoy as much as <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/stitching-patterns\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/stitching-patterns\/\">sewing a new garment.<\/a> I have this pile of clothes ready for alterations at any point in my wardrobe &#8211; hems which have come loose, dresses which need a bit of seam stitching, hooks that have come loose etc &#8211; all of those clothes sitting it out in the wardrobe for months. In my opinion, it is always better to avoid alterations, but sometimes they are necessary for good fit.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">When you buy clothes, buy ones that fit the largest part of your body (for eg. for pants if your hips are wide, do not just look at the measurement of the waist). <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">And always consider the possibility of the garment shrinking after the first wash, when you buy. This is only true for clothes made of natural materials like cotton, linen, rayon garments. Clothes made of synthetic materials do not shrink and those made of spandex will stretch to fit &#8211; no need of alterations, if you have carefully selected them in your fit.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-family: Tahoma, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\">Related post : <a href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/repair-clothes\/\">Clothing repairs and solutions<\/a>&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>You have your dream dress on &#8211; but something is not quite right. And that one thing is ruining it for you. Time for DIY Alterations. Here is an instant diagnostic tool for your fitting issues. Fit &#038; Alteration Diagnoser Select the issue you see on your garment: Choose an issueTight at BustGapping at BustTight &#8230; <a title=\"Altering clothes to make them fit: 20 typical clothing fitting problems\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/alterations\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Altering clothes to make them fit: 20 typical clothing fitting problems\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":11086467,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[106],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-12683","1":"page","2":"type-page","3":"status-publish","4":"has-post-thumbnail","6":"category-clothing-repair-alterations"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/12683","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12683"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/12683\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/11086467"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12683"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12683"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sewguide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12683"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}