How to Alter High Waisted Pants: A Step-by-Step Guide
High waisted pants have made a significant comeback in recent years, offering a stylish and flattering silhouette for many body types. However, if you’ve found that your high waisted pants are either too tight or too loose, don’t worry – altering them is a straightforward process that can be done at home with a few basic supplies. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to alter high waisted pants, ensuring they fit perfectly and flatter your figure.
Materials Needed:
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
– High waisted pants
– Measuring tape
– Fabric scissors
– Pins
– Sewing machine or needle and thread
– Fabric marker or chalk
Step 1: Measure Your Waist
The first step in altering high waisted pants is to measure your waist. Wrap the measuring tape around your waist at the level where you want the pants to sit. Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight. Note down the measurement.
Step 2: Determine the Adjustment Needed
Compare your waist measurement to the waist measurement of the pants. If the pants are too tight, you’ll need to take them in; if they’re too loose, you’ll need to let them out. The amount of adjustment needed will depend on your personal preference and the specific fit you’re aiming for.
Step 3: Mark the Adjustment Points
Using your fabric marker or chalk, mark the adjustment points on the inside seam of the pants. For taking in the waist, mark the same distance from the waistband on both sides. For letting out the waist, mark the new desired waist measurement on both sides.
Step 4: Cut the Seam
Using fabric scissors, carefully cut the seam at the marked points. Be sure to cut the seam allowance, which is typically 1/2 inch, to ensure a clean finish.
Step 5: Adjust the Seam Allowance
If you’re taking in the waist, trim the excess fabric from the seam allowance on both sides. If you’re letting out the waist, add extra fabric to the seam allowance by folding it over and stitching it in place.
Step 6: Pin and Sew the Seam
Pin the adjusted seam together, ensuring that the edges are aligned. Use a sewing machine or needle and thread to sew the seam, reinforcing the stitching at the waistband and any other stress points.
Step 7: Hem the Pants
If you’ve taken in the waist, you may need to hem the pants to maintain the original length. Use a sewing machine or needle and thread to hem the pants, or follow the manufacturer’s instructions for a specific hemming technique.
Step 8: Try on the Pants
Once the alterations are complete, try on the pants to ensure they fit perfectly. Make any additional adjustments if necessary, and enjoy your newly altered high waisted pants!
By following these simple steps, you can easily alter high waisted pants to fit your body perfectly. With a bit of patience and practice, you’ll be able to make adjustments to your favorite garments, ensuring a comfortable and stylish fit every time.
