Can a skirt with a back zipper be altered? This is a common question among those who own or are considering purchasing a skirt with a back zipper. Whether you’ve gained or lost weight, found the zipper stuck, or simply want to change the style, altering a skirt with a back zipper is entirely possible. In this article, we will explore the process of altering a skirt with a back zipper, including the tools and techniques needed to achieve a perfect fit and style.
The first step in altering a skirt with a back zipper is to assess the current condition of the skirt. Check for any damage or wear on the zipper, seams, or fabric. If the zipper is broken or the fabric is worn, it may be necessary to replace the zipper or the entire skirt. However, if the skirt is in good condition, you can proceed with the alteration process.
Tools and Materials Needed:
– Seam ripper
– Scissors
– Measuring tape
– Fabric marker
– Pins
– Thread that matches the skirt’s color
– Zipper foot for your sewing machine (if applicable)
1. Remove the Old Zipper:
Begin by removing the old zipper. Use a seam ripper to carefully remove the stitches securing the zipper to the skirt. Be sure to keep the fabric pieces intact to use them later in the alteration process.
2. Measure and Cut the New Zipper:
Measure the length of the old zipper and purchase a new one that matches the length. Cut the new zipper to the desired length, leaving a small amount of extra fabric at the top and bottom for seam allowances.
3. Prepare the Skirt:
Fold the skirt in half, right sides together, and mark the center back seam. This will be the location where the new zipper will be inserted. If the skirt has a waistband, ensure that it is removed before inserting the new zipper.
4. Insert the New Zipper:
With the skirt still folded in half, insert the new zipper into the skirt’s back seam. The zipper should be placed on the right side of the fabric. Use pins to hold the zipper in place, and sew the zipper in place using a straight stitch. Be sure to sew through both layers of the skirt and the zipper tape.
5. Adjust the Skirt Length (if necessary):
If the skirt is too long or too short, adjust the length by cutting the skirt along the hemline. Remove the pins and carefully remove the old hem. Fold the new hem in place and sew it down using a zigzag stitch or a rolled hem.
6. Reinforce the Zipper and Seam:
To ensure that the zipper and seam are durable, reinforce the area where the zipper is inserted. This can be done by topstitching along the zipper tape or by adding a reinforcing strip of fabric.
7. Reattach the Waistband (if applicable):
If the skirt had a waistband before the alteration, reattach it to the skirt using the original stitching method. Be sure to match the waistband’s edges and sew it securely in place.
By following these steps, you can successfully alter a skirt with a back zipper to fit your needs. Whether you’re making a quick fix or completely transforming the skirt, the process is manageable with a bit of patience and attention to detail. Remember that practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different alterations to find the perfect fit and style for your skirt.
