 | Ruth Wegner can do alterations on suits and gowns, and even makes these items. Ruth is Owner/Operator of Everything Sew Sew located at 1615 N Walnut, Pittsburg KS. She does everything from dress alterations, leather, to custom made items. For more information or to reach Ruth please call 620-235-1280. Prom Season hours: Tues, Wed, Fri 9-5pm, Thursdays from 9-8pm, Saturdays appointments only. |
Sewing & Alterations
2012-06-01 10:36:02
Altering pants
Q: I have a closet full of clothes I bought on sale but do not fit quite right. I am considering taking it on as a project to alter them all myself, starting with the pants. How hard is it to alter pants?
A: That depends on lots of different factors, like the type of material and the kinds of alterations being done, such as whether or not they need just a hem or taken in or let out.
While you do not have to be an expert to get decent results in hemming pants, you should have some sewing experience. If not, I would find a step by step guide online or in a book to help you through the process. Also, I would have someone help you with determining the correct length. You’d have to wear the pants and then bend over to pin them, making the pants rise up and the hemline higher than you expected.
For more complex alterations, I would go to a professional. While the process is not necessarily difficult, there are many things you need to know about various elements of the garment to get an expert fit. Things like changing the waistband or the taper of the leg can get tricky for those new to sewing.
Unless you are expert at alterations, there are some changes too difficult for most people to accomplish.
If the garment is costly or you do not want to risk damaging it take it to an expert if you have these fitting problems:
• There is not enough fabric to let
the pants out
• The pants have a lining
• The material is delicate or vintage
• The rise is too high or too low
A few great fitting pieces can make an entire wardrobe come to life. Good luck, and remember to call in the professional if you run into trouble.
