Tools and Materials
Making a pair of pants fit better without the aid of a sewing machine is a difficult task. The task is readily mastered, however, with the proper tools and materials. To begin, you’ll need a measuring tape, a pair of scissors, fray check, a threaded needle and some strong, thin threads in a coordinating color. Be sure you also have a sharp pair of fabric shears available for trimming away any excess material.
Measurements
Although it might seem like the natural first step would be to cut your pants, the first step should actually be to take your measurements. It is essential that you take accurate measurements of your waist, as this is the foundation of any successful alteration. It also would be beneficial to assess the excess fabric of the crotch and hemline to be sure that the desired amount is removed.
Make a Marker
If there are marks on the pants indicating where you need to adjust, use a piece of fabric chalk to make a more definitive marker of exactly where the stitching line should be. These marks will help you keep the material even, especially when working with thick fabric such as denim. Once you have a clear marker, use your fabric shears to trim away the excess fabric.
Break & Secure The Stitchline
Once you have trimmed away the excess, you must break and secure the old stitchline. The easiest way to do this is to carefully use your scissors to snip the thread. Be sure to not cut the material itself, and only cut the thread. Once the old stitchline is broken, press the fabric against the old stitchline and use your fray check to glue the edges and the fabric together.
Stitch The Pants
Now it’s time to re-stitch the pants. Using your thread and needle, you must then re-stitch along the old stitchline. Take your time and be sure that your stitches are secure, and that the stitchline is straight. If you make a mistake, you must start over. When you have finished stitching, use your hand to press down the stitchline and further secure it against the fabric.
Check The Fit
Test the pants on for size and double check the fit. If the pants fit as desired, you’re finished! If, however, you find that the pants still need further adjustment, you must then break the stitchline you just made and start the process all over again.
Frivolity Technique Conclusion
Making the waist on a pair of pants smaller without the aid of a sewing machine is a difficult yet manageable task. Make sure that you have the correct tools and materials readily available before beginning, and measure your waist to be sure that you have the right fit. Once you’ve made your marker and trimmed away the excess material, break and secure the old stitchline and re-stitch the pants. Press down the stitchline and check the fit — if all is well, you’re done!
Alternatives To Stitching
More modern pants often have an adjustable waistband that makes resizing easier. These pant waistbands consist of a piece of elastic held in place by fabric tabs at the sides that can be fastened tighter or looser. By simply adjusting the tabs, the size of the waistband can be adjusted to fit. It is important to note, however, that while this is a quick and easy solution, it is not as secure as stitching, and may eventually come undone over time.
Using Adhesive
Another way to make pants smaller without sewing is to use adhesive. Fabric glue can be used to stick the waistband fabric together, and although it may not be as secure or permanent as stitching or adjusting a waistband, it is an easy and quick solution if you’re in a pinch. Just be sure not to get the glue on the material itself, as you may not be able to remove it.
Using Snaps and Velcro
Finally, if you’re looking for a more secure solution that doesn’t involve sewing, you can use snaps or velcro. This method requires you to attach snaps or velcro to both sides of the material and then press them together to secure the waistband. This solution is much more secure than adhesive, and is a great alternative to sewing for those who don’t have access to a sewing machine.
