How to: Altering a Sweater Smaller

Small changes can alter a too large sweater to fit.

You see a sweater that is absolutely perfect, except that it is too large. Can you fix it? Absolutely, but be aware that altering sweaters can be tricky. Many knits will curl or bunch up when they are cut, making it hard to resew seams so that they lie smoothly. But with a few tricks, you can reduce the size of a sweater that is too large in the torso and sleeves.

The first secret to altering a sweater smaller is to plan only small adjustments. Don't try to take in any one seam by more than an inch. Then, as you work, keep the fabric as stable as possible as it is being re-sewn.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Pen or sewer's chalk for marking
• Pins
• Sewing machine or serger
• Hand needle
• sewing thread
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Turn the sweater inside out and try it on.

2. Measure and mark a new seam line at both side seams.

3. Pin the fabric. With the sweater turned inside out, begin pinning just beneath the armhole at the original side seam and and gently grade to the new sewing line so that there are no sharp angles. Gently grade again to the original stitching when you reach the bottom hemline.

4. Measure and mark a new seam line for the sleeves. Beginning at the original seam line beneath the armhole, pin a new sewing line along the sleeve, gradually grading to the wrist opening.

5. Baste along the new seam lines with a needle and thread. This will help to stabilize the knit when you machine sew it.

6. Try on the sweater and check for fit.

7. Machine stitch along the new seam lines using a straight stitch.

8. Finish the seams by either using a serger to sew along each seam line or by making a machine zigzag stitch ¼ inch away from the straight seam. Clip away the excess material.

References

• "ReSew Your Thrift-Store Finds into Fabulous Designs":"Sewing Sweaters"; Jenny Wilding Cardor
• Sweetsassafras.org: "How to Alter a Wool Sweater