How to Alter Length of Shirt: A Step-by-Step Guide
Whether you’ve purchased a shirt that’s too long or simply want to give it a unique touch, altering the length of a shirt is a straightforward process. With a few basic supplies and a bit of patience, you can easily tailor your shirt to fit perfectly. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to alter the length of a shirt.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary supplies. You’ll need a pair of sharp scissors, a measuring tape, pins, and a needle. You may also want to have some matching thread on hand for stitching the shirt back together.
Step 2: Measure and Mark the Desired Length
Using the measuring tape, determine the new length of the shirt. Make sure to measure from the bottom of the collar to the desired hem length. Once you have the measurement, mark the spot on the shirt with a pen or a tailor’s chalk.
Step 3: Cut the Shirt
Place the shirt on a flat surface and hold it taut with one hand. With the other hand, carefully cut the shirt at the marked spot. If you’re not confident in your cutting skills, it’s a good idea to make a small cut first to test the fabric and ensure you’re cutting straight.
Step 4: Trim the Seam Allowance
After cutting the shirt, trim away any excess seam allowance, which is the extra fabric around the cut edge. This will help ensure a clean and even hem. Use your scissors to cut the seam allowance to about 1/4 inch from the cut edge.
Step 5: Press the Seam
Using an iron, press the seam open to create a flat edge. This will make it easier to sew the shirt back together later on.
Step 6: Hem the Shirt
Now it’s time to create a new hem for the shirt. You can choose from various hem styles, such as a rolled hem, a flat hem, or a band hem. Follow the instructions for your chosen hem style, and use your needle and thread to secure the hem in place.
Step 7: Sew the Seam
Finally, sew the seam back together using a straight stitch. Make sure to use a needle that’s appropriate for the fabric and to backstitch at the beginning and end of the seam to secure it.
And that’s it! You’ve successfully altered the length of your shirt. Enjoy your perfectly tailored garment, and feel free to experiment with different hem styles to give it a unique look.
