How to Alter Bust on Dress: A Comprehensive Guide
Embarking on a journey to alter the bust of a dress can be both exciting and challenging. Whether you’ve purchased a dress that’s slightly too small or too large in the bust area, or you simply want to customize your dress to fit your body perfectly, altering the bust is a skill that can transform your wardrobe. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to alter bust on dress, ensuring that you achieve the perfect fit for your body.
1. Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials
Before you begin, it’s essential to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s a list of items you’ll need:
– Scissors
– Measuring tape
– pins
– sewing machine or needle and thread
– fabric marker
– fabric or interfacing (if needed)
2. Take Accurate Measurements
To ensure that the alteration is successful, it’s crucial to take accurate measurements of the dress and your body. Measure the bust area of the dress and compare it to your own bust measurement. This will help you determine the amount of alteration needed.
3. Plan Your Alteration
Based on the measurements, decide whether you need to take in or let out the bust area. If the dress is too small, you’ll need to take in the excess fabric. If it’s too large, you’ll need to let out the fabric. It’s important to note that altering the bust may affect the overall fit of the dress, so consider how the changes will impact the rest of the garment.
4. Mark the Adjustment Points
Using the fabric marker, mark the points where you will make the alterations. For taking in the bust, mark the area where you want to remove the excess fabric. For letting out the bust, mark the area where you want to add the extra fabric.
5. Cut the Fabric
Carefully cut the fabric along the marked lines, ensuring that you leave enough room for seam allowances. If you’re taking in the bust, cut the excess fabric away. If you’re letting out the bust, cut the fabric in a way that allows you to add extra fabric later.
6. Add or Remove Fabric
For taking in the bust, sew the excess fabric together, removing the excess material. For letting out the bust, add the extra fabric by creating a dart or gathering the fabric. Make sure to press the seams open for a smooth finish.
7. Sew the Seam
Sew the new seam, ensuring that it’s straight and even. If necessary, reinforce the seam with interfacing for added strength.
8. Trim and Press the Seam
Trim any excess threads and press the seam open or to the side, depending on the style of the dress.
9. Check the Fit
Try on the dress to ensure that the alteration has achieved the desired fit. Make any necessary adjustments and repeat the process if needed.
10. Final Touches
Once you’re satisfied with the fit, make any final touches, such as hemming the dress or adding decorative elements.
By following this comprehensive guide on how to alter bust on dress, you’ll be able to transform your wardrobe and achieve the perfect fit for your body. Happy sewing!
