How to Alter a Dress That’s Too Long
Whether you’ve inherited a beautiful dress from a family member or purchased one at a thrift store, it’s not uncommon to find that the dress is too long for your preference. Altering a dress that’s too long can be a simple and cost-effective solution, allowing you to enjoy your new garment without any unnecessary excess fabric. In this article, we will guide you through the process of altering a dress that’s too long, step by step.
Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials and tools. You will need a pair of sharp scissors, a ruler or measuring tape, pins, and a sewing machine. If you’re not comfortable sewing, you can also use a serger or overlock machine for a cleaner finish.
1. Measure the Dress:
Start by measuring the dress from the hem to the desired length. Make sure to measure both sides of the dress to ensure symmetry. Take note of the measurements, as they will be used later in the alteration process.
2. Mark the Hem:
Using a fabric pen or chalk, mark the hem at the desired length on both sides of the dress. This will serve as a guide for cutting the excess fabric.
3. Cut the Fabric:
Place the dress on a flat surface, ensuring it is smooth and wrinkle-free. Using the marked hem as a guide, cut the excess fabric from the bottom of the dress. Be sure to cut the fabric straight and perpendicular to the hem.
4. Hem the Dress:
After cutting the excess fabric, you will need to hem the dress to prevent the raw edges from fraying. If you have a sewing machine, you can use a rolled hem stitch or a blind hem stitch. If you prefer a hand-sewn hem, you can fold the edge under and stitch it in place by hand.
5. Trim the Seam Allowance:
Trim the seam allowance to 1/4 inch or 6 millimeters to reduce bulk and make the dress easier to wear. Be careful not to cut into the stitching, as this could cause the hem to unravel.
6. Test the Dress:
Before removing the pins, try on the dress to ensure that the hem is at the desired length and that the dress fits well. Adjust the hem if necessary, and then remove the pins.
7. Final Touches:
After removing the pins, press the hem with an iron to smooth out any wrinkles. If desired, you can add a decorative trim or hem facing to give the dress a more polished look.
By following these simple steps, you can easily alter a dress that’s too long to fit your personal style. Remember to take your time and pay attention to detail to ensure a professional-looking result.
