Taking in a dress is a common alteration that can be done to make a dress fit better. Whether the dress is too big or too small, there are a few simple steps that can be followed to take it in and achieve the perfect fit. One of the most important things to keep in mind when taking in a dress is to be patient. It is always better to take your time and do it right than to rush and make a mistake.
The first step is to determine how much the dress needs to be taken in. This can be done by trying on the dress and pinning it to the desired size. Once the dress is pinned, it is important to check the fit from all angles to make sure that it is even. If the dress is too tight in one area but too loose in another, adjustments will need to be made accordingly. Once the dress is pinned to the desired size, it is time to start sewing. When sewing, it is important to use a small stitch size to ensure that the seam is strong and durable. It is also important to backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam to prevent the thread from coming undone. Once the dress is sewn, it is important to try it on again to make sure that it fits properly. If any further adjustments are needed, they can be made at this time.
Taking in a dress can be a challenging task, but it is definitely possible to do it yourself with a little patience and practice. By following these steps, you can achieve the perfect fit and enjoy your dress for years to come.
Measuring and Preparing the Dress
Measuring Materials
- Measuring tape or tailor’s ruler
- Dressmaker’s marking pen or tailor’s chalk
- T-pins or safety pins
Preparing the Dress
1. Wash and press the dress. This removes wrinkles and makes it easier to work with. If the dress is dry-clean only, have it professionally cleaned.
2. Find the side seams.
The side seams are usually located at the edges of the dress and run from the armpits to the hem.
3. Measure the desired amount to take in.
Pinch the fabric at the side seam where you want to start taking in the dress. Measure the distance from the edge of the fabric to your pinch. This is the amount you will need to take in.
4. Mark the seam allowance.
Use the measuring tape or tailor’s ruler to mark the seam allowance on the wrong side of the fabric. The seam allowance is the width of fabric that will be folded under and sewn to create the hem. The standard seam allowance for most garments is 5/8 inch (1.5 cm).
5. Pin the side seams.
Once you have marked the seam allowance, pin the side seams together, right sides facing. Start pinning at the armpit and work your way down to the hem. Make sure that the pins are perpendicular to the edge of the fabric and that they are spaced evenly apart.
Pinning and Fitting the Dress
Once you have basted the side seams and neckline, it is time to pin the dress to your body and make any necessary adjustments. To do this, you will need the following materials:
- Dressmakers pins
- A mirror
- A friend or family member to help you
Begin by putting on the dress and pinning the side seams. Start at the bottom of the dress and work your way up, pinning the dress in 1-inch intervals. Once the side seams are pinned, pin the neckline in the same way.
Next, look in the mirror and make any necessary adjustments to the pins. You may need to adjust the length of the dress, the width of the neckline, or the placement of the darts. Once you are satisfied with the fit of the dress, remove the pins and sew the seams.
Sewing and Securing the Dress
There are a few different ways to sew and secure the dress. The best method will depend on the fabric and the desired look. Here are a few options:
Hand-sewing
Hand-sewing is a great option for delicate fabrics or for a more invisible finish. To hand-sew the dress, you will need a needle and thread that matches the color of the fabric. Start by threading the needle and knotting the end of the thread. Then, insert the needle into the hem of the dress, about 1/4 inch from the edge. Take a small stitch and pull the thread through. Continue stitching around the entire hem, taking small, even stitches. When you reach the end of the hem, tie off the thread and trim the excess.
Machine-sewing
Machine-sewing is a faster and easier option than hand-sewing, but it can be more visible. To machine-sew the dress, you will need a sewing machine and thread that matches the color of the fabric. Start by threading the machine and winding the bobbin. Then, place the dress under the presser foot and set the stitch length to a small, even setting. Start sewing around the hem of the dress, about 1/4 inch from the edge. When you reach the end of the hem, backstitch a few stitches to secure the seam. Then, trim the excess thread.
Topstitch
Topstitching is a decorative stitch that can be used to secure the hem of the dress and add a touch of style. To topstitch the dress, you will need a sewing machine and thread that matches the color of the fabric. Start by threading the machine and winding the bobbin. Then, place the dress under the presser foot and set the stitch length to a medium setting. Start sewing around the hem of the dress, about 1/8 inch from the edge. When you reach the end of the hem, backstitch a few stitches to secure the seam. Then, trim the excess thread.
| Sewing method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Hand-sewing | Invisible finish, delicate fabrics | Time-consuming |
| Machine-sewing | Fast and easy | Visible finish |
| Topstitch | Decorative, secure finish | Time-consuming |
Hemming and Finishing the Dress
Measuring and Marking the Hem
- Put on the dress and stand in front of a mirror.
- Determine how much you want to shorten the dress.
- Use a measuring tape to mark the new hemline all the way around the dress.
- Remove the dress and lay it flat on a table.
- Fold the dress along the marked hemline and press it with an iron to create a crease.
Finishing the Hem
- Choose a hem finish that complements the fabric and style of the dress.
- Roll the hem up by about 1/4 inch and press it.
- Fold the hem up again by 1/2 inch and press it.
- Sew the hem in place using a blind hem stitch or a machine hemmer.
- Hem Finishing Options:
| Hem Finish | Use | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Blind hem | Delicate fabrics | Invisible stitches |
| Machine hem | Most fabrics | Straight, secure stitches |
| Hem tape | Easy application | No-sew option |
| Rolled hem | Soft, decorative edge | Requires a special sewing machine foot |
| Hong Kong finish | Formal garments | Creates a hidden seam |
Using a Bodkin or Safety Pin
This method is ideal for taking in small amounts of fabric on seams or hems. You will need a bodkin or a safety pin with a small head.
Method:
1. Turn the dress inside out and identify the area that needs to be taken in.
2. Mark a line on the inside of the fabric where you want to create the new seam.
3. Thread the bodkin or safety pin with a piece of thread.
4. Starting at the marked line, insert the tool into the fabric and pull it approximately 1/4 inch inside the original seam line.
5. Bring the tool back through to the other side of the fabric, aligning it with the original line.
6. Pull the thread tight to gather the fabric and create the new seam line.
Tips for Gathering with a Bodkin or Safety Pin:
| Step | Tip |
|---|---|
| 4 | Use a thimble to protect your fingers from the needle when inserting the tool into the fabric. |
| 5 | To create evenly gathered fabric, space the stitches evenly along the new seam line. |
| 6 | Pull the thread gently to gather the fabric without puckering or stretching it too much. |
Basting the Dress with Hand
Basting is a temporary stitch that helps you fit and adjust the dress before sewing it permanently. It’s a crucial step in the dressmaking process, as it allows you to check the fit and make any necessary alterations.
To baste the dress, you will need a needle and thread. Choose a thread that matches the color of the dress fabric. Start by inserting the needle into the fold of the seam allowance, about 1/4 inch from the edge. Bring the needle up through the fabric, leaving a small loop on the wrong side. Insert the needle back into the fold of the seam allowance, about 1/4 inch from the loop. Bring the needle up through the fabric, forming a second loop. Repeat this process along the entire seam, spacing the stitches about 1/4 inch apart.
Once you have basted the entire seam, try on the dress to check the fit. If the dress is too loose, you can make it tighter by adjusting the tension on the basting stitches. If the dress is too tight, you can make it looser by removing some of the basting stitches.
Once you are satisfied with the fit, you can remove the basting stitches and sew the seam permanently.
Tips for Basting
- Use a sharp needle to prevent snagging the fabric.
- Use a thread that matches the color of the dress fabric.
- Space the stitches about 1/4 inch apart.
- Try on the dress to check the fit before sewing it permanently.
Table of Contents
| Section | Page |
|---|---|
| Basting the Dress with Hand | 5 |
| Sewing the Dress | 7 |
| Finishing the Dress | 9 |
Tacking and Finishing Seams
Tacking is a temporary stitch used to hold fabric together before sewing it permanently. When taking in a dress, tacking can be used to mark pleats, darts, and seams. Before tacking, baste the dress to the body to ensure a proper fit.
Types of Tacking Stitches
- Running stitch: A series of straight stitches made by hand or machine.
- Pin stitch: A series of small, even stitches made by hand and held together by a pin.
- Slip stitch: A stitch that passes through only one layer of fabric, creating a barely visible seam.
Finishing Seams
Once the dress is tacked and fitted, the seams can be permanently finished. Common seam finishes include:
Plain Seam
A simple seam where the edges of the fabric are sewn together with a straight stitch.
Zigzag Stitch
A strong and stretchy stitch that prevents fraying and is often used on curves and edges.
French Seam
A seam where the raw edges are enclosed within the seam allowance, creating a clean and durable finish.
Bound Seam
A seam where the fabric is folded over and sewn onto the raw edges, concealing them and creating a decorative effect.
Bound Seam with Bias Tape
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| – Easy to apply – Durable – Decorative |
– Can add bulk – May not be suitable for sheer fabrics |
Attaching a Zipper and Fasteners
Preparing the Zipper
1. Choose a zipper that matches the length and color of the dress opening.
2. Cut the zipper to the desired length, leaving extra fabric at both ends for sewing.
3. Fold the excess fabric at one end of the zipper under by 1/4 inch and stitch it down.
Attaching the Zipper
4. Pin the folded end of the zipper to the dress opening, right sides together.
5. Sew the zipper in place using a zipper foot on your sewing machine.
6. Repeat steps 4-5 for the other side of the zipper.
Finishing the Zipper
7. Topstitch around the zipper to secure it and create a finished look.
8. Add a hook and eye or snap closure at the top and bottom of the zipper for added security.
Attaching Fasteners
9. Choose fasteners, such as hooks, eyes, or snaps, that complement the dress.
| Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Hooks and eyes | Invisible and adjustable, suitable for delicate fabrics. |
| Snaps | Durable and easy to use, ideal for heavier fabrics. |
| Buttons | Decorative and functional, available in a wide range of styles. |
10. Determine the placement of the fasteners and mark it on the dress.
11. Attach the fasteners to the dress using the appropriate method (sewing, gluing, or snapping).
12. Ensure that the fasteners are securely attached and operate smoothly.
How to Take In a Dress
Taking in a dress is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. With a few basic tools and some patience, you can easily alter your dress to fit you perfectly. Here are the steps on how to take in a dress.
1. Put on the dress and mark the areas that need to be taken in. Use pins or chalk to mark the excess fabric.
2. Take off the dress and lay it out flat on a table.
3. Fold the excess fabric along the marked lines and pin it in place.
4. Sew along the pinned lines, using a small stitch length.
5. Try on the dress to make sure it fits properly. If it is still too loose, you can take it in further by repeating steps 3-4.
6. Once you are satisfied with the fit, finish the seams by sewing them down with a zigzag stitch.
People Also Ask About How to Take In a Dress
How much does it cost to take in a dress?
The cost of taking in a dress will vary depending on the complexity of the alterations and the location of the tailor. Generally, you can expect to pay between $20 and $60 for a simple alteration, such as taking in the sides or hem. More complex alterations, such as taking in the bodice or sleeves, may cost more.
Can I take in a dress myself?
Yes, you can take in a dress yourself if you have some basic sewing skills. However, it is important to note that alterations can be tricky, so it is important to take your time and be careful. If you are not sure how to take in a dress, it is best to consult with a professional tailor.
How do I know if a dress can be taken in?
Most dresses can be taken in, but there are some exceptions. Dresses made from delicate fabrics, such as silk or lace, may not be able to be taken in without damaging the fabric. Dresses with intricate beading or embroidery may also be difficult to alter.
