How to Alter a Lined Jacket
Embarking on the journey to alter a lined jacket can be both rewarding and challenging. Whether you’ve found a perfect jacket that’s just a bit too big or too small, or you simply want to update its style, learning how to alter a lined jacket can save you money and give you a custom fit. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making necessary adjustments to your lined jacket, ensuring it fits like a glove and looks stylish.
1. Assess the Jacket
Before you start, take a good look at your lined jacket. Determine which areas need alterations. Is it too long or too short? Are the sleeves too wide or too narrow? Identifying these issues will help you plan your next steps effectively.
2. Gather Your Tools
To alter a lined jacket, you’ll need a few essential tools. These include a pair of sharp scissors, pins, a ruler, a measuring tape, and thread that matches the jacket’s color. If you’re planning to sew buttonholes or add new buttons, you’ll also need a buttonhole maker and additional buttons.
3. Remove the Lining
Begin by carefully removing the lining from the jacket. Start by unbuttoning and unzipping the jacket, then carefully cut away the lining from the jacket’s seams. Be sure to leave enough fabric to work with for the alterations.
4. Make the Necessary Adjustments
Now it’s time to make the adjustments. If the jacket is too long, you can shorten it by trimming the bottom hem and then reattaching the lining. To shorten sleeves, measure the desired length, cut off the excess fabric, and then reattach the lining.
For a jacket that’s too small, you may need to add width to the sleeves or sides. To do this, cut a strip of fabric that matches the jacket’s material and sew it to the inside of the seam where you want to add width. Once the fabric is in place, reattach the lining.
5. Reattach the Lining
After making the necessary adjustments, it’s time to reattach the lining. Pin the lining to the jacket’s interior, ensuring that the edges are even. Sew the lining back in place, using a zigzag stitch to prevent the fabric from fraying.
6. Add Finishing Touches
Now that the jacket is altered, it’s time to add any finishing touches. If you need to replace buttons or add buttonholes, do so now. Make sure the buttons are securely attached and that the buttonholes are evenly spaced.
7. Try On and Adjust
Finally, try on your altered lined jacket to ensure that the fit is perfect. Make any additional adjustments as needed, and enjoy your newly tailored jacket.
By following these steps, you can successfully alter a lined jacket to fit your personal style and preferences. With a bit of patience and practice, you’ll be able to make adjustments to your favorite jackets, ensuring they remain a part of your wardrobe for years to come.
