How to Pick Fabric for Clothing Alterations
How to pick fabric for clothing alterations will depend on the type of alteration needed. There are ways to use the same material from unnoticed places such as hems. For recycling clothing, different material pieces can be used. Weight of the fabric needs to be equal. Nap and texture need consideration. Match fabric or try to have it ordered in.
- Examine the garment that you want altered. It is important to know whether you want to alter the entire look. Some people want to recycle their clothes and make a pair of shorts into a skirt. Other people want to have the clothing article altered to a different size. How to pick the fabric for clothing alterations will depend on the type of alteration that is wanted.
- Use the same fabric if altering for a decrease in size. This is generally easy to do for experienced sewers and seamstresses. There are areas that excess fabric can be taken away and used to remake the desired lines. This can also be done when altering the opposite direction. It does take more skill, as there will be less excess fabric to work with.
- Make sure everyone is clear on the outcome of the desired fabric and look if another person is doing the altering. This will save on unnecessary frustrations.
- Try to match the fabric by taking a small piece from an unnoticed spot such as an inner seam or hem. Check with local fabric stores or specialty shops. You may find just the right fabric. Many fabric stores, professional seamstresses and other clothing places may be able to order in the correct fabric.
- Try envisioning different pieces of fabric for alterations done to recycle clothes. Different patterns can be chosen if done carefully.
- Make sure that the fabric used is the same weight as the original piece. The nap and texture of the fabrics also needs to be considered.