How to Alter Pants Sewing Pattern: A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you tired of wearing pants that don’t quite fit? Do you wish you could customize your favorite pair to fit your body perfectly? Altering a pants sewing pattern is a great way to achieve a perfect fit. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to alter pants sewing patterns, ensuring that your final product is both stylish and comfortable.
Step 1: Measure Your Body
Before you start altering your pants sewing pattern, it’s essential to take accurate measurements of your body. Use a measuring tape to measure the following areas:
– Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your waist.
– Hip: Measure around the fullest part of your hips.
– Thigh: Measure the circumference of your thigh at the widest point.
– Inseam: Measure from the crotch seam to the bottom of the pants leg.
– Outseam: Measure from the top of the waistband to the bottom of the pants leg.
Step 2: Analyze the Pattern
Examine the original pants sewing pattern and identify the areas that need alteration. Common adjustments include:
– Waistline: If the waist is too tight or too loose, you may need to add or subtract length from the waistline.
– Hip: If the hips are too tight or too loose, you may need to add or subtract width at the hip area.
– Thigh: If the thighs are too tight or too loose, you may need to add or subtract width at the thigh area.
– Length: If the pants are too long or too short, you may need to adjust the inseam or outseam.
Step 3: Make the Necessary Adjustments
Now that you have identified the areas that need alteration, it’s time to make the necessary adjustments to your pants sewing pattern:
– To add width, draw a new line parallel to the original line, at the desired width, and connect the new line to the original line.
– To subtract width, draw a new line parallel to the original line, at the desired width, and connect the new line to the original line, then trim the excess fabric.
– To add length, extend the pattern piece along the length of the pattern, and redraw the bottom edge to maintain the desired shape.
– To subtract length, trim the pattern piece along the length of the pattern, and redraw the bottom edge to maintain the desired shape.
Step 4: Test the Pattern
Before cutting into your fabric, it’s a good idea to test your altered pattern on paper. Trace the altered pattern onto a piece of paper and cut it out. Then, tape the paper pattern pieces together and lay them on a flat surface. Adjust the pattern as needed until you achieve the desired fit.
Step 5: Cut and Sew
Once you are satisfied with your altered pattern, cut out the fabric pieces according to the new pattern. Follow the original sewing instructions to construct your custom-fitted pants.
By following these steps, you can easily alter pants sewing patterns to fit your body perfectly. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different alterations until you find the perfect fit for you. Happy sewing!
