Have you ever bought a dress that was just a little too long? Maybe you found the perfect dress at a thrift store, but it was too long for your liking. Or maybe you bought a dress online, but it arrived longer than you expected. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of simple ways to shorten a dress without having to take it to a tailor. In this blog post, we will share three different methods for shortening a dress. These methods are all easy to follow and can be done at home with just a few basic sewing supplies.
The first method we will discuss is the simple hem method. This method is best for dresses that are only slightly too long. To hem a dress, you will need a sewing machine, thread, and a measuring tape. You will also need to decide how much you want to shorten the dress. Once you have decided on the length, you will need to measure and mark the new hemline. Once the new hemline is marked, you can fold the excess fabric over and sew it in place. The simple hem method is a quick and easy way to shorten a dress, and it is also the most invisible method.
The second method we will discuss is the facing method. This method is best for dresses that are more than a few inches too long. To face a dress, you will need a piece of fabric that is the same color and weight as the dress. You will also need a sewing machine, thread, and a measuring tape. To face a dress, you will need to cut a piece of fabric that is the same width as the dress and twice the length of the amount you want to shorten the dress. Once you have cut the fabric, you will need to fold it in half lengthwise and press it. Then, you will need to sew the facing to the dress, right sides together. Once the facing is sewn in place, you can fold it over and sew it down to the dress. The facing method is a more time-consuming method than the simple hem method, but it is also more durable and can be used to shorten dresses by a significant amount.
Gathering Essential Materials
Sewing Machine and Needles
* Choose a sewing machine that can handle the fabric of your dress. A basic sewing machine with a straight stitch and zigzag stitch will suffice for most fabrics.
* Select the appropriate needle for your fabric. A universal needle works well for most woven and knit fabrics. For delicate fabrics, use a sharp needle, such as a microtex needle. For thicker fabrics, use a thicker needle, such as a denim needle.
Measuring Tools
* Measure the length you want to shorten the dress and mark it with a fabric pen or chalk.
* Use a ruler or measuring tape to ensure accurate measurements.
Scissors
* Use sharp scissors specifically designed for cutting fabric.
* Choose scissors with a pointed tip for precision cutting and a comfortable grip for extended use.
Thread
* Match the thread color to the fabric of your dress.
* Use a high-quality thread that is strong and durable, such as cotton or polyester thread.
Zipper
* If the dress has a zipper, you will need to remove it and reattach it after shortening the dress.
* Use a zipper that is the same length as the original zipper.
Iron and Ironing Board
* An iron and ironing board are essential for pressing the seams after sewing.
* Use the appropriate heat setting for the fabric of your dress.
Measuring and Pinning the Hemline
Step 1: Decide on the Desired Length
Determine the desired length of the dress by trying it on and marking the new hemline. You can pin the fabric at the desired length to visualize the finished look.
Step 2: Measure and Cut the Excess Fabric
Measure the distance between the current hemline and the desired length. This measurement represents the excess fabric that needs to be removed. Using sharp fabric scissors, carefully cut off the excess fabric, ensuring a straight and even cut.
Step 3: Fold and Pin the Hem
Fold up the cut edge twice to create the new hem. The first fold should be made to the inside of the dress, with the raw edge of the fabric hidden. The second fold should be made to the outside of the dress, overlapping the first fold by approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Pin the hem in place along the entire length.
Step 4: Iron the Hem
Before sewing the hem, iron it to set the folds and create a crisp edge. Use a pressing cloth to protect the fabric and apply heat and steam to flatten out the hem.
Step 5: Pin the Hem into Place
Once the hem is ironed, re-pin it into place to ensure it remains secure while sewing. Use fine pins inserted perpendicular to the hem edge, spacing them evenly about 1-2 inches apart.
Step 6: Sew the Hem
Select a sewing machine needle suitable for the fabric of the dress and thread it with a matching thread color. Choose a stitch that blends seamlessly with the fabric, such as a blind stitch or a straight stitch with a zigzag stitch over it. Sew the hem along the pinned line, taking care to secure the thread at both ends.
Overcasting the Raw Edge
Once the excess fabric has been cut away, you need to finish the raw edge to prevent it from fraying. Overcasting is a simple and effective stitch that will create a neat and durable edge. To overcast the raw edge:
- Thread your sewing machine with a serger thread or a regular thread in a contrasting color.
- Set your machine to an overcasting stitch. This stitch is typically denoted by a zigzag or wave pattern on the stitch selector dial.
- Place the raw edge of the fabric under the presser foot and sew along the edge, keeping the stitches as even as possible. The stitch should extend slightly beyond the raw edge to provide a secure finish.
- Continue sewing around the entire edge of the fabric, taking care to maintain a consistent stitch length and tension.
- Once the edge has been overcasted, trim any excess thread.
Overcasting is a relatively quick and easy way to finish a raw edge. It is a versatile stitch that can be used on a variety of fabrics, from lightweight silks to heavy canvas.
Preparing the Sewing Machine
4. Thread the Machine
Threading the sewing machine is crucial for successful sewing. Follow these steps to ensure proper threading:
- Raise the Presser Foot: Lift the presser foot to clear the needle and thread path.
- Insert the Thread into the Spool Pin: Place the thread spool on the spool pin and guide the thread into the thread guide.
- Follow the Threading Path: Locate the threading diagram on the machine and follow the indicated path, usually marked with arrows or colored lines.
- Insert the Thread into the Tension Disk: Gently pull the thread through the tension disk and bring it towards the needle.
- Thread the Needle: Thread the needle from front to back, making sure the thread passes through the needle’s eye.
- Check the Thread Tension: Adjust the thread tension knob to ensure the thread is neither too loose nor too tight. Medium tension is recommended for most fabrics.
- Lower the Presser Foot: Once the thread is properly tensioned, lower the presser foot to engage the needle and begin sewing.
- Gather your materials. You will need a sewing machine, thread, scissors, a measuring tape, and a seam ripper.
- Measure the dress. Determine how much you want to shorten the dress. Mark the new length on the dress with a piece of chalk or fabric marker.
- Remove the hem. Use a seam ripper to carefully remove the hem from the dress.
- Fold up the bottom of the dress. Fold up the bottom of the dress to the new length you marked. Press the fold with an iron.
- Sew the new hem. Sew the new hem in place using a sewing machine. Use a stitch that is similar to the original hem.
- Press the hem. Press the new hem with an iron to set the stitches.
| Thread Type | Needle Size | Tension Setting |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton | 70/10 | Medium |
| Polyester | 80/12 | Medium |
| Silk | 60/8 | Loose |
Topstitching or Blind Stitching the Hemline
Once you’ve folded and pressed your hem, you have two options for stitching it in place: topstitching or blind stitching.
Topstitching
Topstitching is a simple and straightforward method that involves stitching along the outer edge of the hem. This creates a visible seam that can add a decorative touch to your dress. To topstitch the hem:
1. Fold the hem up by 1/2 inch and press.
2. Fold the hem up again by 1/2 inch and press again.
3. Topstitch along the outer edge of the hem, using a straight stitch.
Blind Stitching
Blind stitching is a more delicate method that creates an almost invisible seam. This is a good option if you want to hide the hemline on a formal or dressy dress. To blind stitch the hem:
1. Fold the hem up by 1/2 inch and press.
2. Fold the hem up again by 1/2 inch, but this time, fold it to the inside of the dress.
3. Blind stitch along the edge of the fold, using a blind stitch foot.
| Method | Appearance | Visibility | Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Topstitching | Visible seam | Obvious | Casual dresses |
| Blind Stitching | Invisible seam | Hidden | Formal or dressy dresses |
Variations for Different Fabric Types
Depending on the type of fabric you’re working with, different techniques may be necessary to hem your dress without damaging the delicate material. Here are some variations to consider for various fabric types:
Knits (Jersey, Ribbing, Sweatshirt Fleece)
Knits are stretchy fabrics that can be challenging to hem without creating puckering or distortion. To avoid this, use a ballpoint needle and sew a wider stitch length (around 3.5 mm), which will allow the fabric to stretch slightly as you sew.
Sheer Fabrics (Chiffon, Voile, Organza)
Sheer fabrics require a delicate touch when hemming to prevent tearing or snagging. Use a fine needle and thread, and sew a narrow stitch length (around 2 mm) to create a clean and invisible hem that won’t show through the fabric.
Stretch Fabrics (Spandex, Lycra, Elastic Knit)
Stretch fabrics are a breeze to hem as they naturally conform to the shape of your body. Use a zigzag stitch or stretch stitch and sew at a medium stitch length (around 3 mm) to allow for the fabric’s elasticity.
Silky Fabrics (Satin, Silk Charmeuse, Crepe de Chine)
Silky fabrics are known for their slippery nature, making them slightly challenging to hem. To ensure a smooth and even hem, use a fine needle and a lightweight thread. Sew at a medium stitch length (around 2.5 mm) and avoid pressing or ironing the hem as heat can damage the delicate fabric.
Velvet
Velvet has a distinct pile that requires special care when hemming. Use a sharp needle and sew at a slightly longer stitch length (around 4 mm) to avoid cutting or crushing the pile. Be sure to sew with the nap of the fabric, which is the direction the fibers are laying.
Lace
Lace is a delicate fabric that requires careful handling to prevent tearing or fraying. Use a fine needle and thread, and sew at a very narrow stitch length (around 1.5 mm). Support the lace with a backing fabric or use a water-soluble stabilizer to help keep the lace in place while sewing.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
8. Puckering or Shirring After Hemming
Puckering or shirring can occur if the fabric is not evenly distributed when sewing the hem. To prevent this, ensure that the fabric is pulled taut and evenly spread out before stitching. Additionally, use a shorter stitch length to secure the hem firmly and prevent it from shifting. If puckering still occurs, carefully unpick the hem and redistribute the fabric before restitching. Here’s a table summarizing the issue, cause, and solution:
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Puckering or shirring | Uneven fabric distribution or stitching | Pull taut, evenly spread fabric; use shorter stitch length; unpick and redistribute fabric if necessary |
How to Sew a Dress Shorter
Shortening a dress is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. The most important thing is to be patient and take your time. Here are the steps on how to sew a dress shorter:
People Also Ask About How to Sew a Dress Shorter
How much does it cost to have a dress shortened?
The cost to have a dress shortened will vary depending on the complexity of the dress and the location of the tailor. However, you can expect to pay between $20 and $60 for a simple hem.
Can I sew a dress shorter by hand?
Yes, you can sew a dress shorter by hand. However, it will be more time-consuming than using a sewing machine. To sew a dress shorter by hand, you will need a needle and thread. Fold up the bottom of the dress to the new length you marked. Then, use a needle and thread to sew the new hem in place.
What is the best stitch to use to sew a dress shorter?
The best stitch to use to sew a dress shorter is a blind stitch. A blind stitch is a type of stitch that is invisible from the right side of the fabric. To sew a blind stitch, you will need a needle and thread. Insert the needle into the fabric from the wrong side. Then, bring the needle out to the right side of the fabric and insert it back into the fabric on the wrong side. Repeat this process until you have sewn the entire hem.
