Oversized shirts can be a blessing and a curse. They’re comfortable and stylish, but they can also make you look sloppy and unkempt. If you’ve got a large shirt that you love but that’s just too big, don’t despair! There are a few easy ways to make it smaller without having to resort to a sewing machine.
One of the simplest ways to make a large shirt smaller is to tie it up. This is a great way to create a more fitted look without having to alter the shirt itself. Simply tie a knot in the bottom of the shirt, and then adjust the tightness of the knot until you’re happy with the fit. You can also try tying the shirt in different ways to create different looks.
Another way to make a large shirt smaller is to tuck it in. This is a more formal way to wear an oversized shirt, but it can also be very flattering. Simply tuck the shirt into your pants or skirt, and then adjust the length of the shirt until you’re happy with the fit. You can also try tucking the shirt in different ways to create different looks.
Measuring Your Shirt
Before you begin altering your shirt, it’s crucial to take accurate measurements to ensure the best fit. Here’s a step-by-step guide to measure your shirt:
1. Gather Your Tools
You’ll need the following tools to measure your shirt:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Measuring tape | Measuring length, width, and circumferences |
| Ruler or Yardstick | Measuring straight lines (optional) |
| Marker or chalk | Marking measurements on the shirt |
2. Flatten the Shirt
Lay the shirt on a flat surface, smoothing out any wrinkles or folds. Ensure that the buttons are fastened and the front and back are aligned.
3. Measure the Length
Place the measuring tape at the top of the shoulder, where the seam meets the neckline. Extend the tape down the center of the shirt, over the chest and stomach, to the bottom hem. Record this measurement.
4. Measure the Bust/Chest
Close the shirt buttons if they are open. With the measuring tape, measure around the fullest part of the bust or chest. Keep the tape parallel to the floor and ensure it’s not too tight.
5. Measure the Waist
Find the natural waistline of the shirt, which is usually the narrowest part of the torso. Place the measuring tape around the waist and pull it snugly, but not too tightly. Record this measurement.
6. Measure the Hips (for Longer Shirts)
For longer shirts or tunics, you may also need to measure the hips. With the shirt lying flat, measure around the fullest part of the hips, keeping the tape parallel to the floor.
Preparing Your Materials
Before you start, it’s crucial to gather and prepare the necessary tools and materials for your project. Here’s a comprehensive list to ensure you have everything you need:
Measuring Tape or Ruler
Accurately measuring the shirt’s dimensions is vital, so a measuring tape or ruler is imperative. This will help you determine the exact amount of fabric you need to remove for a tailored fit.
Sewing Machine
A sewing machine is necessary for stitching the alterations in the shirt. Make sure it’s in good working condition and has the appropriate needle and thread for the fabric type. Alternatively, you can hand stitch the seams, but this requires more time and patience.
Thread
Choose a thread color that closely matches the fabric of the shirt. This ensures the stitches blend seamlessly and makes the alterations less noticeable. If you’re unsure about the color, opt for a neutral shade like white or black.
Iron and Ironing Board
An iron and ironing board are essential for pressing the seams and creating a professional-looking finish. Always follow the care instructions for the shirt’s fabric to avoid damaging it during ironing.
Pins
Pins are used to hold the fabric together while sewing. They help keep the seams aligned and prevent the fabric from shifting. Use sharp and sturdy pins to avoid damaging the material.
Seam Ripper (Optional)
If you make any mistakes while sewing, a seam ripper will come in handy. It allows you to remove stitches quickly and accurately without damaging the fabric. However, be gentle and careful when using it.
Fabric Marker or Chalk
This is optional but can be helpful for marking the areas to be altered. It’s a temporary marking tool that can be easily removed after the alterations are complete.
Creating a Hem
Hemming is an excellent way to reduce the length of a shirt without altering its width. Gather your sewing supplies, including a sewing machine, thread, scissors, measuring tape, and an iron.
1. Measure and mark the new length
Determine the desired length of the shirt and measure from the bottom of the shirt to the new length. Mark this point with a pin or fabric marker.
2. Fold and press the hem
Fold the bottom edge of the shirt up to the marked point. Press the fold with an iron to create a crisp crease. Fold the hem up again by 1/2 to 1 inch, aligning the raw edges with the pressed crease. Press again to secure the fold.
3. Stitch the hem
Use a sewing machine to stitch the hem in place. Start stitching at one side seam and sew around the entire bottom edge, using a small stitch length for a secure hold. Overlap the stitches at the starting and ending points to reinforce the seam. Iron the hem one final time to flatten it and set the stitches.
Pinning the Hem
Once you have turned up the hem, it’s time to start pinning it in place. Start by pinning the hem at the side seams, then work your way around the shirt, pinning every inch or two. Make sure that the pins are perpendicular to the edge of the shirt, and that they are inserted through both the hem and the body of the shirt. This will help to keep the hem from puckering or shifting when you sew it.
Sewing the Hem
Once the hem is pinned in place, it’s time to sew it. You can use a sewing machine or hand-sew the hem. If you are using a sewing machine, use a straight stitch and a needle that is appropriate for the fabric. If you are hand-sewing the hem, use a backstitch or slip stitch.
Using a Sewing Machine
To sew the hem using a sewing machine, start by aligning the raw edge of the hem with the edge of the presser foot. Hold the shirt taut and sew slowly, being careful not to pucker or stretch the fabric. Once you have sewn all the way around the shirt, backstitch a few times to secure the thread.
Hand-Sewing the Hem
To hand-sew the hem, start by threading a needle with a length of thread that is twice the length of the hem. Tie a knot in the end of the thread and insert the needle into the hem, about 1/2 inch from the edge. Take a small stitch in the body of the shirt, and then bring the needle back up through the hem, about 1/4 inch from the first stitch. Continue sewing in this manner, taking small stitches all the way around the hem. Once you have sewn all the way around the shirt, backstitch a few times to secure the thread.
| Method | Pros | Cons |
| Using a sewing machine | – Quick and easy – Creates a strong and durable hem |
– Requires a sewing machine – May be difficult to control the stitch length |
| Hand-sewing the hem | – No special equipment required – More control over the stitch length |
– More time-consuming – May be difficult to achieve a perfectly straight hem |
Narrowing the Sides
Seamline Alteration
This method involves sewing a new seam along the side seams of the shirt, effectively reducing the width. Pin the side seams together to the desired width, leaving a seam allowance of 5/8 inch. Since you’re reducing the width, the new side seams will overlap the existing ones slightly. Carefully sew along the new seam, reinforcing the stitching on the area where the seams overlap to secure the alteration.
Darting
Darts create a tapered fit without changing the neckline or sleeve shape. Mark two vertical lines on each side of the shirt, roughly 4-6 inches apart and parallel to the side seams. Pin the fabric along these lines from the bottom hem to just below the armpits. Sew two darts on each side, tapering them to a point near the armpits. Press the darts flat and topstitch for reinforcement.
Gathering or Pleating
Adding gathers or pleats to the sides of the shirt creates volume and reduces the overall width. Measure and mark the center of each side seam. Starting at the center, sew two parallel rows of gathering stitches along both sides of the seam, leaving a few inches unsewn at the hem. Pull the gathering threads to reduce the width, distributing the gathers evenly. Pin and sew the side seams, leaving the gathered area unstitched. For pleats, mark and fold the fabric into even pleats, securing them with pins or stitching. Press the pleats flat.
Tucking and Stitching
This method involves tucking in the excess fabric on the sides of the shirt and stitching it down. Pin the shirt in place, folding in the desired amount of fabric on each side. Fold the fabric towards the center of the shirt, overlapping it slightly. Stitch along the folded edge, starting from the hem and continuing to the armpits. Press the stitched area flat for a clean finish.
Waistband Addition
Adding a waistband at the natural waist creates a more fitted silhouette while slightly reducing the overall width. Measure and cut a strip of fabric equal to the desired waistband width and the circumference of the waist. Pin the waistband along the bottom edge of the shirt, overlapping the sides by a few inches. Stitch the waistband in place, folding under and stitching the raw edges for a finished look.
| Method | Technique | Pros | Cons |
|—|—|—|—|
| Seamline Alteration | Sewing a new seam along side seams | Precise, reduces width evenly | May require additional fabric if altering a significantly oversized shirt |
| Darting | Creating tapered tucks | Creates a more fitted shape | Requires careful marking and sewing |
| Gathering or Pleating | Adding volume while reducing width | Decorative, can create a more casual look | May lose some fabric length |
| Tucking and Stitching | Folding and stitching excess fabric | Easy and suitable for small alterations | May create a slightly bulky appearance |
| Waistband Addition | Adding a waistband at the natural waist | Creates a more tailored fit, reduces width at waist | Requires more fabric and may not be suitable for all shirt styles |
Cutting Excess Fabric
To cut excess fabric from your shirt, follow these steps:
1. Try on the shirt to determine which areas need adjusting.
Once you determine which areas need adjusting, mark them with a fabric pen or chalk. You may want to try on the shirt inside out to see the seams more clearly and mark them as well.
2. Measure and mark the excess fabric.
Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the amount of excess fabric you want to remove. Mark the measurements on the shirt with a fabric pen or chalk.
3. Pin the excess fabric.
Fold the excess fabric over along the marked lines. Pin the folded fabric in place using sewing pins. This will help keep the fabric in place when you cut it.
4. Cut the excess fabric.
Use a sharp pair of scissors to cut along the marked lines. Be careful not to cut into the main part of the shirt.
5. Finish the raw edges.
Once you have cut the excess fabric, the raw edges will need to be finished to prevent fraying. You can do this by sewing around the edges with a sewing machine or by using a fabric glue.
6. Trying on and making additional adjustments.
After you have finished cutting and finishing the raw edges, try on the shirt to see if it fits to your liking. If necessary, make additional adjustments by cutting off more fabric or re-sewing the seams. It is important to take your time and make sure that the shirt fits well before completing the final adjustments.
Finishing Raw Edges
Method 1: Hem the edges using a sewing machine or needle and thread. Fold the edge over twice and stitch it down, being careful not to catch the outer fabric in your stitches.
Method 2: Use fabric glue to bond the edges together. Apply a thin line of glue along the edge and fold it over, pressing it firmly to adhere.
Method 3: Use a fabric serger to create a finished edge. This machine will trim the fabric while simultaneously stitching it, creating a clean and durable finish.
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Hemming | Creates a classic, durable finish | Can be time-consuming and requires some sewing skills |
| Fabric Glue | Quick and easy, no sewing required | Can create a less durable finish that may unravel over time |
| Serging | Provides a professional-looking finish, trims excess fabric | Requires a sewing machine, can be expensive |
Additional Tips:
- Use a narrow hem for a more delicate finish.
- Choose a thread color that matches the fabric for a seamless look.
- Press the finished edges with an iron to create a crisp appearance.
Trying on and Making Adjustments
Once you have gathered your materials, it’s time to start trying on the shirt and making adjustments. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Pin the Shoulders
Put on the shirt and pinch the excess fabric at the shoulders. Use safety pins to secure the fabric in place.
2. Mark the Arms
Pinch the extra fabric at the underarms and use chalk or a fabric pen to mark where the new seam should be.
3. Shorten the Sleeves
Fold up the sleeves to the desired length and use safety pins to hold them in place. Use a measuring tape to ensure both sleeves are even.
4. Measure the Waist
Wrap a measuring tape around your waist at the point you want the shirt to fit. Record the measurement.
5. Pin the Sides
Pin the excess fabric at the sides of the shirt, starting from the armpits and working down to the hem. Match the pins to the waist measurement you took earlier.
6. Shorten the Hem
Fold up the hem to the desired length and use safety pins to hold it in place. Use a measuring tape to ensure the hem is even all the way around.
7. Stitch the Seams
Once you are satisfied with the fit, remove the safety pins and stitch the seams using a sewing machine or by hand. Reinforce the seams by double-stitching or using a zigzag stitch.
8. Iron the Shirt
Iron the shirt to smooth out any wrinkles and set the seams. Use a low heat setting to avoid damaging the fabric.
9. Fine-Tune the Fit
After you have stitched the seams, try on the shirt again and make any necessary fine-tune adjustments. This may involve adjusting the shoulder seams, underarm seams, or hem length to ensure a comfortable and flattering fit.
| Adjustment | Description | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adjusting shoulder seams | Widen or narrow the shoulders to fit your body | ||||||||||
| Adjusting underarm seams | Reduce or increase the sleeve width to eliminate excess fabric or ensure a comfortable fit | ||||||||||
| Adjusting the hem length | Shorten or lengthen the hem to reach your desired shirt length or to balance the overall proportions of the shirt
Tips for a Successful FitBefore you begin, there are a few tips to keep in mind for a successful fit: 1. Choose the Right ShirtNot all shirts are created equal. Some fabrics are more forgiving than others when it comes to shrinking. Natural fibers like cotton and linen tend to shrink more than synthetic fibers like polyester or nylon. If you’re unsure about the fabric content, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and choose a shirt that’s too big rather than too small. 2. Pre-Wash the ShirtIf the shirt is new, it’s important to pre-wash it before you begin altering it. This will help to remove any excess dye or sizing that could prevent the shirt from shrinking evenly. 3. Use Hot WaterHot water is more effective at shrinking shirts than cold water. However, it’s important to be careful not to use water that’s too hot, as this could damage the fabric. 4. Agitate the ShirtAgitating the shirt while it’s in the water will help to distribute the heat evenly and promote shrinking. You can do this by hand or by using a washing machine. 5. Dry the Shirt on High HeatOnce the shirt has been washed, it’s important to dry it on high heat. This will help to further shrink the fabric. 6. Iron the ShirtOnce the shirt is dry, you can iron it on a high setting to help set the new size. 7. Repeat the Process if NecessaryIf the shirt is still too big after the first wash and dry cycle, you can repeat the process until you’re satisfied with the fit. 8. Be PatientShrinking a shirt takes time and patience. Don’t try to rush the process, or you could end up damaging the fabric. 9. Test the Fit as You GoIt’s important to test the fit of the shirt as you go. This will help you to avoid over-shrinking the shirt. 10. If All Else Fails, Seek Professional HelpIf you’re having trouble shrinking the shirt yourself, you can always take it to a professional tailor. A tailor can help you to achieve the perfect fit without damaging the fabric.
How To Make A Large Shirt SmallerIf you have a large shirt that you want to make smaller, there are a few different ways to do it. The quickest and easiest way is to use a sewing machine to take in the sides or the back of the shirt. Another option is to hand sew the shirt smaller, which is a more time-consuming process but can give you more control over the final result. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make a large shirt smaller using a sewing machine:
People Also Ask About How To Make A Large Shirt SmallerHow can I make a large shirt smaller without sewing?There are a few ways to make a large shirt smaller without sewing. One way is to use a hair tie or elastic band to cinch the waist or sleeves of the shirt. Another way is to tie the shirt in a knot at the bottom or the waist. You can also use a safety pin to gather the excess fabric at the sides or the back of the shirt. How can I make a large shirt smaller in the shoulders?To make a large shirt smaller in the shoulders, you will need to take in the shoulder seams. This is a more advanced sewing technique, so it is best to have some experience with sewing before attempting it. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to take in the shoulder seams of a shirt:
How can I make a large shirt smaller in the waist?To make a large shirt smaller in the waist, you can either take in the side seams or the back seam of the shirt. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to take in the side seams of a shirt:
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