SewMendStitch

Clothing Alterations

Practical changes to clothes you already own: hems, waistbands, side seams and straps. Measure first, baste, try on, and only then cut.

Before you start

Fit and Measurement GuideBeginner30 minPreparation Checklist Before CuttingBeginner20 minAlteration Tools and What They DoBeginner15 minWhat Can and Cannot Be Altered EasilyBeginner20 min

Hemming

Shorten TrousersConfident Beginner1 hr 30 minShorten Jeans and Keep the Original HemConfident Beginner1 hrShorten a SkirtConfident Beginner1 hr 30 minShorten a Dress, Including Curved HemsConfident Beginner1 hr 45 minShorten Simple SleevesConfident Beginner1 hrHand-Sewn Invisible HemConfident Beginner1 hrMachine-Sewn Visible HemBeginner45 minHem Knit and Stretch FabricConfident Beginner1 hr

Taking in and letting out

Take In a Waistband at Centre BackIntermediate2 hrAdjusting a Skirt WaistbandConfident Beginner1 hrTake In Side Seams on a Skirt or DressConfident Beginner1 hr 30 minTake In Loose Trousers Through the Seat and LegsIntermediate2 hr 30 minTake In a Simple Shirt at the Sides and SleevesConfident Beginner2 hrUse Darts to Improve FitIntermediate1 hr 30 minLet Out SeamsConfident Beginner1 hr 30 minWhen a Garment Cannot Easily Be Let OutBeginner15 min

Simple adjustments

Shorten Simple StrapsConfident Beginner1 hrShorten an Elastic WaistbandBeginner30 minReplace Basic ElasticBeginner30 minRepair a Loose Waistband SeamConfident Beginner45 minAdjust a Simple Neckline or OpeningIntermediate2 hrReattach Belt LoopsBeginner30 minReplace a DrawstringBeginner20 minReinforce PocketsBeginner30 minSecure Loose Seams and FacingsConfident Beginner45 min