How to Alter and Hem a Bridesmaids Dress
Bridesmaids dresses are an essential part of a wedding, and ensuring that each dress fits perfectly is crucial for the overall look and feel of the event. Whether the dresses are too long or too short, a little alteration can make a big difference. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to alter and hem a bridesmaids dress, ensuring that your girls look their best on the special day.
1. Gather the Necessary Materials
Before starting the alteration process, it’s important to gather all the necessary materials. You will need a pair of fabric scissors, pins, a measuring tape, a seam ripper, a needle, thread, and matching fabric for hemming if needed. If you’re not confident in your sewing skills, consider asking a professional seamstress for help.
2. Measure the Dress
Take precise measurements of the dress, including the length from the waist to the desired hemline. It’s crucial to have accurate measurements to ensure the dress fits well. If the dress is too long, you will need to hem it, and if it’s too short, you may need to add a ruffle or a layer of fabric to create the desired length.
3. Hemming the Dress
To hem a dress, start by folding the hem up to the desired length and pinning it in place. Then, use a seam ripper to remove the existing hem, if necessary. Sew a new hem using a straight stitch, making sure to backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the thread. If the dress has a ruffle or a layer of fabric to add length, pin it in place and sew it on before hemming the dress.
4. Shortening the Dress
If the dress is too long, you may need to shorten it. Begin by marking the desired length on the dress with a pin or a fabric marker. Then, remove the dress from the body and cut the excess fabric, leaving a small seam allowance. Sew the cut edges together using a zigzag stitch or a serger to prevent fraying. Finally, fold the hem up to the new length and sew it in place as described in step 3.
5. Adjusting the Waistline
If the dress is too tight around the waist, you can let it out by removing the side seams and adding additional fabric. Cut the seams, pin the new fabric in place, and sew the seams back together. If the dress is too loose, you can take it in by removing the excess fabric from the side seams and sewing the seams back together. Make sure to adjust the dress to fit each bridesmaid’s waist size.
6. Finishing Touches
After making the necessary alterations, take a moment to check the dress for any loose threads or uneven stitching. Trim any excess thread and press the dress to ensure it looks smooth and professional. If you’re not confident in your sewing skills, consider taking the dress to a professional seamstress for final touches.
By following these steps, you can easily alter and hem a bridesmaids dress, ensuring that each girl looks stunning on the wedding day. With a little patience and attention to detail, your bridesmaids will feel beautiful and confident in their perfectly fitted dresses.
