Unlock the Secrets of Pencil Skirt Alterations: How to Let Out a Pencil Skirt with Professional Results!

Have you ever looked at a beloved pencil skirt in the back of your closet, only to realize it’s a tad too snug? Or perhaps you’ve found a vintage gem at a thrift store, but it’s just a little too small for your current size. Don’t let a tight fit keep you from rocking this classic silhouette! This blog post will guide you through the process of how to let out a pencil skirt, giving you the confidence to tailor your wardrobe and make your favorite pieces fit perfectly again.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, gather the necessary materials to make the alterations smoothly. You’ll need:

• Your pencil skirt: The star of the show!
• Measuring tape: For accurate measurements.
• Fabric scissors: Sharp and precise for cutting fabric.
• Sewing pins: To hold the fabric in place while you sew.
• Sewing thread: Matching the color of your skirt.
• Sewing machine: (optional) If you’re comfortable with a sewing machine, it will make the job quicker.
• Iron and ironing board: To press seams and give a crisp finish.

Assess Your Skirt: The First Step

The first step is to assess the skirt and determine how much you need to let it out. Consider the following:

• Desired fit: How much extra room do you need? A half-inch or an inch?
• Seam allowance: Most skirts have a seam allowance of about 5/8 inch. If you need to let out the skirt by more than the seam allowance, you will need to add fabric.
• Fabric type: The type of fabric will determine the best method for letting out the skirt. Stretchy fabrics are often easier to work with than non-stretch fabrics.
• Design details: Take note of any details on the skirt, such as pockets, zippers, or pleats, as they will need to be adjusted accordingly.

Letting Out the Side Seams: The Most Common Method

The side seams are typically the easiest to let out. Here’s how:

1. Mark the seam allowance: Using a measuring tape, mark the seam allowance on the inside of the skirt.
2. Cut the seam: Carefully cut open the side seam along the marked line.
3. Adjust the seam allowance: If you need to let out the skirt by more than the seam allowance, you can either add a strip of fabric to the seam allowance or cut a wider seam allowance.
4. Pin the seam closed: Pin the seam allowance together, making sure the fabric is smooth and even.
5. Sew the seam: Sew the seam closed using a straight stitch.
6. Press the seam: Press the seam open to create a crisp finish.

Adjusting Other Seams: Back Seams and Waist

Depending on the design, you may need to adjust other seams:

• Back seams: If the skirt has a back seam, you can let it out in the same way as the side seams.
• Waistband: You may need to let out the waistband if you need to make the skirt larger. To do this, you will need to open the waistband seam and add a strip of fabric.

Adding Fabric: Creating More Room

If you need to let out the skirt by more than the seam allowance, you’ll need to add fabric. Here’s how:

1. Cut a strip of fabric: Cut a strip of fabric that is the same width as the seam allowance and the length of the seam you need to let out.
2. Pin the fabric to the seam allowance: Pin the fabric strip to the seam allowance, making sure it is aligned with the grain of the fabric.
3. Sew the fabric to the seam allowance: Sew the fabric strip to the seam allowance using a straight stitch.
4. Press the seam: Press the seam open to create a crisp finish.

Finishing Touches: The final step

After letting out the seams, you’ll need to finish the skirt.

• Hem: If you let out the skirt enough to affect the hem, you may need to re-hem it.
• Press the skirt: Press the entire skirt to remove any wrinkles and create a crisp finish.

Beyond the Basics: Tailoring for a Perfect Fit

While the basic methods above will help you let out a pencil skirt, you can take it a step further to achieve a truly customized fit. Consider these additional tips:

• Consider the fabric: If you’re working with a delicate fabric, use a delicate sewing needle and thread.
• Use a serger: A serger will create a professional-looking finish on the seams.
• Use a tailor’s chalk: Tailor’s chalk is a great way to mark the seams and ensure that the fabric is even.

Time to Shine: Embrace Your Tailored Style

Letting out a pencil skirt is a simple and rewarding tailoring project that can breathe new life into your wardrobe. By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a perfect fit that flatters your figure and showcases your unique style. So, grab your sewing supplies and get ready to transform your wardrobe with a few simple alterations!

Answers to Your Questions

Q: Can I let out a pencil skirt made of stretchy fabric?

A: Yes! Stretchy fabrics are often easier to let out than non-stretch fabrics. You may not even need to add fabric, as the stretchiness will allow you to adjust the seams.

Q: Can I let out a pencil skirt with a zipper?

A: Yes, you can let out a pencil skirt with a zipper. Make sure to adjust the zipper tape accordingly when you let out the seams.

Q: What if I don’t have a sewing machine?

A: You can still let out a pencil skirt without a sewing machine. Use a strong needle and thread to hand-sew the seams.

Q: How can I prevent the fabric from fraying?

A: To prevent fraying, use a serger to finish the seams or use a zigzag stitch on your sewing machine.

Q: What are some alternatives to letting out a pencil skirt?

A: If you’re not comfortable letting out a pencil skirt, you can try:

• Finding a larger size: You can try to find a larger size of the same skirt.
• Wearing a different style: You can try wearing a different style of skirt that fits you better.
• Getting the skirt tailored: You can take the skirt to a professional tailor to have it let out.