How to Alter a Pleated Skirt
Are you looking to refresh your wardrobe with a new look, but your favorite pleated skirt doesn’t quite fit anymore? Altering a pleated skirt can be a challenging task, but with the right steps and a bit of patience, you can achieve a perfect fit. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to alter a pleated skirt, ensuring that it fits you like a glove.
1. Assess the Fitting Issues
Before diving into the alteration process, it’s essential to understand the specific fitting issues you’re dealing with. Is the skirt too tight or too loose? Are there any areas that are particularly problematic, such as the waist, hips, or hem? Identifying these issues will help you determine the necessary adjustments.
2. Gather Your Materials
To alter a pleated skirt, you’ll need the following materials:
– Scissors
– Measuring tape
– Pins
– Sewing machine
– Thread that matches your skirt’s color
– Fabric chalk or a washable pen
3. Take Accurate Measurements
Take precise measurements of the areas you need to adjust. For instance, if the skirt is too tight around the waist, measure the current waist size and determine how much you want to let out. Similarly, if the skirt is too long, measure the desired length from the waist to the hem.
4. Mark the Alteration Points
Using fabric chalk or a washable pen, mark the alteration points on the skirt. If you’re letting out the waist, mark the new waistline. If you’re shortening the skirt, mark the new hemline. Be sure to mark the points on both sides of the skirt to ensure symmetry.
5. Cut the Skirt
Using scissors, carefully cut along the marked lines. If you’re letting out the waist, cut the skirt in a straight line from the waist to the new waistline. If you’re shortening the skirt, cut the hem to the desired length. Be sure to leave a seam allowance of about 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) on each side.
6. Adjust the Pleats
Pleated skirts require special attention when altering. To maintain the pleated pattern, gently press the pleats open with an iron and mark the new pleat lines. Then, fold the pleats back into place, aligning them with the new waistline or hemline. Pin the pleats in place to ensure they stay in place during the sewing process.
7. Sew the Skirt
Using a sewing machine, sew the skirt together along the new waistline or hemline. Make sure to reinforce the seams with a zigzag stitch to prevent fraying. If you’re letting out the waist, you may need to add a new seam to create the extra width.
8. Hem the Skirt
If you’ve shortened the skirt, fold the hem up by 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) and press it. Then, fold it up again by another 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) and press it again. Sew the hem in place using a straight stitch or a blind hem stitch.
9. Iron the Skirt
Finally, iron the skirt to remove any wrinkles and ensure that the pleats are evenly distributed. Your altered pleated skirt is now ready to be worn and enjoyed!
By following these steps, you can successfully alter a pleated skirt to fit your body perfectly. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to tackle even more complex alterations and create a wardrobe that fits you like a dream.
