It is easy to shorten clothes that are too long and still have the possibility to recover them later. It is great not only for children's clothes, but also for keeping up with length trends; definitely a saving skill!
Steps
Step 1. Test the article first
It is essential to let the wearer try on the dress to be able to pin it to the correct length.
Step 2. Thread match or flathead pins around the hem
Spacers approximately 3 inches (7.5 cm) around the material. Fold it in as you pin it.
Step 3. Remove the clothing item
Remove the item from the wearer, carefully, to avoid scratching the wearer with pins.
Step 4. Thread a needle with thread
Make sure the thread matches the color of the material as closely as possible.
Step 5. Double and knot the thread
Gives you the strength you need for a hem; the hem undergoes a lot of pressures from everyday life. (To double the thread, pass it through the needle and bring the ends together, then tie the thread into a knot.)
Step 6. Flip the article of clothing inside out
If the dress is extremely long, measure and cut some of the excess material, but leave about 2 inches (5 cm). Refine the cut edge so it doesn't fray. If you want to be able to restore the material later, simply fold it back several times, forming an edge a couple of inches thick.
Step 7. sew around the stapled material
Gather as little fabric as possible with the needle for each stitch. Try to space the points 1/2 inch (1.5cm) apart at most. You can sew by hand or machine, whichever you prefer.
Advice
- The thicker your material, the thicker the needle you should use - both hand and machine. The thinner the material, the thinner the needle will also be.
- If you're shortening something of your own, get someone else to pin it if possible. Otherwise, you may have a crooked line, not being able to see what you do.
- Wear a thimble, it is easy to prick yourself with needle and pins.
- Iron the hem to give it a more complete look.
- Use good, sharp scissors when cutting the fabric. They will follow the texture of the fabric more easily and leave a clean cut.
- Ask a haberdashery or art store for tools to help you thread the needles if you have difficulty doing so.
