Shorts are a wardrobe staple when the weather is hot and humid. But if you've purchased shorts that are too big for you, don't worry – there are ways to take them in so that they fit you perfectly. Taking in shorts may seem like a daunting task, but with a few basic sewing supplies and some patience, you can have a perfect fit in no time.
What You'll Need
You'll need to gather a few materials before you start taking in your shorts. You'll need:
- a sewing machine
- thread
- pins
- scissors
- seam ripper
- measuring tape
- a piece of chalk
Step 1: Measure Your Shorts
Before you start taking in your shorts, measure them to determine how much fabric needs to be taken in. Measure the waistband, the waistband seam, and the length of the shorts. Make a note of these measurements so that you can compare them to your desired measurements after you've taken in the shorts.
Step 2: Take Out the Seams
Most shorts have two seams that run along the sides of the waistband. Use a seam ripper to carefully remove these seams. Be careful not to cut any of the fabric as you remove the seams.
Step 3: Take In the Fabric
Once the seams have been removed, it's time to start taking in the fabric. You can do this by pinning the fabric in place and then using a sewing machine to stitch along the pinned edge. Make sure that you are taking in an even amount of fabric on both sides so that the shorts look symmetrical.
When taking in the fabric, it's important to keep the waistband seam in place. Make sure that you are only taking in the fabric along the sides of the waistband, not the seam itself.
Step 4: Hem the Shorts
Once you've taken in the fabric, you'll need to hem the shorts. To do this, measure the length of the shorts and mark where you would like to hem them. You can use a piece of chalk to make a mark on the fabric. Then, fold the fabric at the mark and pin it in place.
Once you have the fabric pinned, use a sewing machine to stitch along the pinned edge. When you're done, trim off any excess fabric with a pair of scissors.
Step 5: Check Your Work
Once you've finished hemming and taking in the shorts, it's time to check your work. Put on the shorts and compare the measurements that you took before you started to the measurements you took after you finished. If the measurements are the same, then you know you've done a good job.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much fabric do I need to take in?
This will depend on how much the shorts are too big. Generally, you should take in an even amount of fabric on both sides of the waistband. Start by taking in a small amount and then adjust as needed.
Do I need to use a sewing machine?
Yes, a sewing machine is necessary for taking in shorts that are too big. Hand sewing can be time-consuming and difficult to get even results.
How do I know how much to hem the shorts?
Measure the length of the shorts and mark where you would like to hem them. You can use a piece of chalk to make a mark on the fabric. Then, fold the fabric at the mark and pin it in place.
Can I take in shorts that are too short?
Yes, you can take in shorts that are too short. You will need to remove the seams and then take in an even amount of fabric on both sides of the waistband.
What type of thread should I use?
Use a thread that matches the color of the fabric as closely as possible. This will help create a seamless look.
How can I make sure that the shorts fit perfectly?
Take your time and measure the shorts before and after you take them in. Make sure that you are taking in an even amount of fabric on both sides of the waistband. Also, make sure that you are only taking in the fabric and not the waistband seam.
Do I need to use pins?
Yes, it is a good idea to use pins when taking in shorts. Pins will help hold the fabric in place while you stitch.
How often should I check the fit?
It's a good idea to check the fit of the shorts periodically as you take them in. This will help ensure that you are taking in an even amount of fabric and that the shorts fit perfectly.
What type of seam ripper should I use?
A seam ripper with a sharp point is best for removing seams. This will help ensure that you don't accidentally cut any of the fabric.
Can I take in shorts with a zipper?
Yes, you can take in shorts with a zipper. However, it is important to be careful not to damage the zipper while taking in the fabric.
Do I need to use a measuring tape?
Yes, it is important to measure the shorts before and after you take them in. This will help ensure that you are taking in an even amount of fabric and that the shorts fit perfectly.
Do I need to use chalk?
Yes, chalk can be used to mark where you would like to hem the shorts. This will help ensure that the hem is even and straight.