How to Alter Shoulders on a Jacket
If you’ve ever found that your favorite jacket doesn’t quite fit as well as you’d like, especially around the shoulders, you’re not alone. Altering the shoulders on a jacket can make a significant difference in how it fits and feels on your body. Whether it’s too tight, too loose, or just not the right shape, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to alter shoulders on a jacket to achieve the perfect fit.
1. Assess the Problem
Before you start, take a good look at your jacket. Is the shoulder seam too far forward or too far back? Is the shoulder area too tight or too loose? Understanding the specific issue will help you determine the best approach to take.
2. Gather Your Materials
To alter the shoulders on a jacket, you’ll need some basic sewing supplies. These include a pair of sharp scissors, pins, a measuring tape, a seam ripper, and your chosen fabric and thread. It’s also helpful to have a tailor’s ham or a rolled-up towel to help shape the fabric during the process.
3. Mark the Adjustment
Using your measuring tape, measure the current shoulder width of the jacket and compare it to your desired width. Mark the new shoulder width on the jacket using a fabric pen or chalk. This will serve as your guide for the alteration.
4. Remove the Seam
Using the seam ripper, carefully remove the stitching from the shoulder seam. Be sure to keep the fabric in place as you remove the stitches to avoid distortion.
5. Cut the Fabric
Once the seam is removed, cut the fabric along the marked line. If the shoulder is too wide, cut off the excess fabric; if it’s too narrow, add width by folding the shoulder seam inwards and cutting the excess.
6. Reattach the Seam
Pin the fabric back together, ensuring that the edges are aligned. Use a matching thread and a straight stitch to reattach the seam. If you’re adding width, you may need to use a zigzag stitch to prevent the seam from fraying.
7. Shape the Shoulder
To ensure a smooth and even shoulder line, use the tailor’s ham or rolled-up towel to press the seam open. This will help create a clean and professional finish.
8. Test the Fit
Once the shoulder seam is reattached and the fabric is pressed, try on the jacket to ensure the fit is now perfect. If necessary, make further adjustments and repeat the process until you’re satisfied with the results.
9. Finish the Jacket
Finally, finish any remaining edges, such as hems or collars, and enjoy your newly altered jacket that now fits like a glove.
By following these steps, you can easily alter the shoulders on a jacket to achieve the perfect fit. Remember that practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different adjustments until you find the ideal fit for your wardrobe.
