Are your pants or trousers becoming a little too constricting around your waist and thighs? Do you constantly find yourself squeezing into them with no luck? Whether the issue is minor weight gain or an accidental shrinkage after washing, multiple solutions exist to rescue your favourite go-to pair of pants.
There are two primary methods you can use to widen the waist of your pants: you can either stretch the fabric or make sewing alterations. For a more permanent and effective solution, it’s advisable to opt for sewing alterations, as this approach allows for precise adjustments that will last through multiple washes and wears.
Anyone with a sewing machine can learn how to alter clothing, it just takes a little patience and trial and error. But before starting your DIY pants alteration project, you’ll need to thoroughly assess how your pants fit you first to guarantee a successful alteration.
Fit Check: How Well Do Your Pants Really Fit?
Assessing your pant’s current fit is crucial in determining how much extra room you’ll need and which areas need adjustments. Here are some steps you can take:
- To start, wear your pants as you normally do and stand before a mirror. Gauge how it fits on your waist, hips, and thighs.
- Check for any tight or uncomfortable areas, focusing particularly on the waistband.
- Keep an eye out for any fabric pulling or creases, which suggest that your pants may be too small in some areas.
After identifying the problem areas in your pants, it’s time to take some measurements. Make sure to measure the following:
- Waist measurement: To measure your waist, loop the tape around the area just above your hips, making sure it’s snug but not constricting.
- Hip measurement: Measure around the widest part of your hips, typically situated at the top of your thighs, for an accurate hip measurement.
- Thigh measurement: Measure around the fullest part of your thigh, ideally near the groin area, to get an accurate thigh measurement.
Once you’ve measured all the important areas, it’s time to gather the material you need to start your DIY pants alteration project.
Materials You’ll Need to Adjust Your Pant’s Waist Size
To ensure a successful DIY pants alteration, it’s important to have all the necessary equipment and materials. Here are some tools and items you’ll need:
- Seam Ripper
- Measuring Tape
- Scissors
- Fabric
- Sewing Machine
- Clothes Iron and Ironing Board
- Ball Pins
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Your Pants Bigger
Now that you’ve gathered all the materials you need and determined the fit of your pants, it’s time to start the pants-widening process.
1. Get the Right Sizes
Start by measuring the widest part of your hips and jot it down. Next, measure the widest part of the pants. Subtract the pants size from your hip size to find the extra width needed.
Divide this by 2 for each side’s fabric width. Add two inches for seams. For instance, if you need an extra four inches, you’ll do 4/2=2+2=4.
Don’t forget to measure the pant length as well. Start with the tape measure at the bottom hem and extend it up to the waistline. Make sure the measurement is both accurate and exact.
2. Cutting the Fabric Gussets, Side Seams, and Waistband
Once you’ve confirmed the measurements for length and width, cut out two fabric gussets of matching size. A simple pair of scissors should suffice for this task, and make sure the edges don’t fray.
Next, use your scissors to cut the side seams of your pants. Ensure you make the cuts as close to the inner seams as you can.
Now, proceed to focus on your pants’ waistband. Make a clean cut through it, using either scissors or a seam ripper; however, scissors are the preferable option. This will result in the opening of the side seams of your pants.
3. Folding and Ironing the Fabric Gussets
During this step, fold and press a 1/4-inch section of the fabric gusset twice, doing this on each side of your trousers.
4. Stitching the Fabric Gusset Folds
Now, it’s time to sew the folds on the short sides of your fabric gusset to establish a completed hem on your trousers. For optimal results, measure accurately and use a sewing machine needle.
5. Securing the Fabric Gusset with Pins
Next, match the right sides of your trousers. Use ball pins to fasten the fabric gusset to the sides, making sure to pin them with exact measurements to allow for seam allowance and future stitching.
6. Adding Seam Allowance: Sewing Your Gusset
Add a 1/2-inch seam allowance to your pants’ fabric. Begin stitching each side of your fabric gusset to the pants, making sure to remove the ball pins as you go along the seam.
7. Ironing the Side Seams: The Finishing Touch
You’re now almost finished with your pants alteration. Press open each new side seam and iron them. Use a low heat setting on your iron to prevent any burns or damage. Lay your pants on a flat, clean ironing board and iron for a few minutes.
8. The Final Step: Topstitching for Lasting Results
To complete your pants alteration and prevent future fraying, you’ll need to add a topstitch close to the side seams. This will provide a stylish finish and improve the overall wearability of your pants.
If you need to add a bit more room to your pants, a seam ripper can do the trick. Simply remove the first row of stitches on each side, allowing for an extra 1/2 inch of space on both sides.
Whether you prefer shorts or jeans, pants are a wardrobe essential. Finding a pair that perfectly fits you can be challenging, but with our pants alteration guide, you’ll have the perfect pants in no time. If you’re struggling to follow this guide, our seasoned tailors are here to help. We’ve altered a wide range of jeans and pants and take pride in ensuring a perfect fit for our valued customers.