How to Alter a Suit Jacket That Is Too Big

Are you in possession of a perfectly stylish suit jacket that, unfortunately, doesn’t fit you quite right? Don’t despair; altering a suit jacket that is too big is a task that can be easily accomplished with a bit of patience and the right know-how. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to alter a suit jacket that is too big, ensuring that it fits you like a glove and looks fantastic.

Step 1: Assess the Problem Areas

The first step in altering a suit jacket that is too big is to identify the specific areas that need adjustment. Common problem areas include the shoulders, sleeves, and the waist. Take a good look at your jacket and determine where it’s too loose.

Step 2: Choose the Right Alteration Techniques

Once you’ve identified the problem areas, it’s time to decide on the alteration techniques that will best suit your needs. Here are some common methods for altering a suit jacket that is too big:

– Shoulder Adjustment: If the jacket is too wide at the shoulders, you may need to take in the seams at the shoulder points. This can be done by removing a small amount of fabric from the inside of the jacket and re-sewing the seams.

– Sleeve Adjustment: If the sleeves are too long, you can shorten them by taking in the seam at the cuff. This involves removing a portion of the sleeve fabric and re-sewing the cuff.

– Waist Adjustment: To reduce the waist size, you can take in the side seams of the jacket. This is done by removing a small amount of fabric from the sides and re-sewing the seams.

Step 3: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin altering your suit jacket, gather all the necessary materials. You’ll need:

– A sewing machine or needle and thread
– Fabric marking pen or chalk
– Scissors
– Pins
– Seam ripper (if needed)
– Iron and ironing board

Step 4: Take Precise Measurements

To ensure that your alterations are accurate, take precise measurements of the areas you’re adjusting. Use a measuring tape and record the measurements, making sure to account for any excess fabric.

Step 5: Make the Alterations

Now it’s time to put your skills to the test. Follow these steps to make the necessary alterations:

– Mark the Fabric: Use your fabric marking pen or chalk to mark the areas where you need to remove fabric. Be sure to mark the fabric on the inside of the jacket so that the marks are not visible from the outside.

– Remove the Excess Fabric: Using scissors, carefully cut away the marked fabric. Be sure to leave enough fabric to sew the seams back together.

– Re-sew the Seams: Pin the fabric back together and sew the seams, using a matching thread. If you’re using a sewing machine, be sure to adjust the tension and stitch length to ensure a clean, even seam.

– Press the Seams: Once the seams are sewn, press them flat using an iron and ironing board. This will help the fabric lay smoothly and ensure a professional-looking finish.

Step 6: Final Check

After making the alterations, try on the suit jacket to ensure that it fits well. If you find that the fit is still not quite right, make any necessary adjustments and re-sew the seams.

Conclusion

Altering a suit jacket that is too big is a rewarding project that can help you achieve a perfect fit. By following these steps and using the right techniques, you can transform a suit jacket into a garment that flatters your figure and makes you feel confident. So don’t let a slightly oversized jacket go to waste; give it a new lease on life with a little bit of alteration magic!