Can you alter a tankini bust? This is a common question among women who find that their favorite tankini doesn’t quite fit perfectly around the bust area. Whether it’s due to a change in weight, a new purchase, or simply the desire for a better fit, altering a tankini can be a straightforward process with the right tools and techniques. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to successfully alter a tankini bust, ensuring that you can enjoy your swimsuit with confidence and comfort.
The first step in altering a tankini bust is to assess the problem area. Determine if the issue is with the top of the tankini or the bottom, as the solution may differ. If the top is too tight, you will need to make a few strategic cuts and redistributions of the fabric. If the bottom is too tight, you may need to add some width or length to the skirt portion.
For a top bust alteration, start by marking the areas where you need to remove fabric. This is typically done at the sides and under the arms, where the fabric is causing the most discomfort. Use a fabric pen or chalk to make these marks, ensuring they are clearly visible.
Once you have marked the areas to be removed, it’s time to cut the fabric. Use a sharp pair of fabric scissors to make clean cuts along the marked lines. Be sure to cut as close to the stitching as possible without cutting through the seam itself. This will help minimize the amount of fabric you need to remove.
After cutting, it’s important to redistribute the fabric to maintain the original shape of the tankini. Begin by pulling the excess fabric to the side and pinning it in place. This will create a new seam where the excess fabric was removed. Use a seam ripper to carefully remove the original seam, then sew the new seam using a straight stitch. Make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of the seam to secure it in place.
If the issue is with the bottom of the tankini, you may need to add width to the skirt portion. This can be done by making a few horizontal cuts along the bottom edge of the skirt and then spreading the fabric apart to add width. Once you have the desired width, pin the new edges together and sew them back together using a zigzag stitch to create a more flexible seam.
It’s important to note that when altering a tankini, it’s crucial to maintain the original proportions and style of the swimsuit. This means that any changes you make should be subtle and not dramatically alter the overall look of the tankini. By following these steps and taking your time, you can achieve a perfect fit that will have you feeling confident and comfortable in your swimsuit.
In conclusion, altering a tankini bust is a task that can be easily accomplished with some basic sewing skills and the right tools. By carefully assessing the problem area, making strategic cuts, and redistributing the fabric, you can achieve a better fit that will have you enjoying your swimsuit all summer long. So, the next time you ask yourself, “Can you alter a tankini bust?” the answer is a resounding yes!
