Go ahead and keep those favorite shirts that have seen better days in the fit department. And don't worry about buying that perfect shirt that's a bit too small, because with this simple alteration technique, you can make any shirt fit like a glove.
Things You'll Need
Too small shirt
Seam ripper
Needle and thread
Sharp scissors
Pins
Step 1: Remove and reposition sleeve buttons
Remove the buttons on the sleeves with a seam ripper. Then, resew them closer to the edge, which will give your arms much more room to move.
Step 2: Cut up center back
Cut up the center back of the shirt and stop when you get to the yoke.
Step 3: Press raw edges
Press the raw edges under a half an inch.
Step 4: Choose an insert fabric
Find some pretty lace or coordinating fabric to insert into the back.
Tip
If the fabric you use is from an old shirt, you can make use of the existing hem and place that at the bottom of the shirt.
Step 5: Pin insert fabric into opening
With the right sides of both fabrics facing up, pin the coordinating fabric under the opening you made in the back.
Step 6: Sew
Sew down both sides of the opening, close to each edge.
Step 7: Trim
Trim the extra fabric from the inside of the shirt, and leave a half-inch seam allowance.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Now, you not only have a shirt that fits and isn't busting at the seams, but one that's pretty in the back, too.
