How to Alter Lace Dress: A Step-by-Step Guide
Lace dresses are exquisite pieces that can add a touch of elegance to any outfit. However, they can also be tricky to alter due to their delicate nature. Whether you need to resize a lace dress or make it more comfortable for your body type, this step-by-step guide will help you alter your lace dress with ease.
1. Gather the Necessary Materials
Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials for altering your lace dress. You will need:
– A pair of sharp scissors
– A measuring tape
– A sewing machine or needle and thread
– pins
– fabric marker or chalk
– lace fabric or lace trim (if needed)
2. Measure Your Dress
Take precise measurements of your lace dress to determine where you need to make alterations. Measure the following areas:
– Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your bust.
– Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your waist.
– Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips.
– Length: Measure from the top of the dress to the desired hem length.
3. Determine the Alteration Type
Based on your measurements, decide which type of alteration you need to make. Common alterations for lace dresses include:
– Taking in the sides
– Shortening the dress
– Adding width to the waist or hips
– Adjusting the neckline
4. Mark the Alteration Points
Using your fabric marker or chalk, mark the alteration points on your lace dress. Be sure to mark the points clearly and accurately, as this will guide you during the sewing process.
5. Cut the Dress
Using your sharp scissors, carefully cut the dress along the marked alteration points. If you are taking in the sides, cut a straight line from the shoulder seam to the hem. If you are shortening the dress, cut the hem to the desired length.
6. Sew the Dress
Now it’s time to sew the alterations. Follow these steps:
– For taking in the sides, pin the dress together at the marked points and sew a straight line, leaving a small gap for turning the dress right side out.
– For shortening the dress, sew the hem to the desired length, then turn the dress right side out and press the hem.
– For adding width to the waist or hips, sew a gathering stitch along the marked line and gather the fabric as needed. Pin and sew the gathered fabric to the dress, then trim any excess lace.
7. Trim and Press the Dress
After sewing the alterations, trim any excess lace or fabric and press the dress to ensure a smooth finish.
8. Add Lace Trim (Optional)
If you need to add lace trim to your dress, carefully sew it onto the desired areas using a zigzag stitch or a lace-specific stitch on your sewing machine.
9. Try on the Dress
Finally, try on the altered lace dress to ensure that the alterations are to your satisfaction. Make any necessary adjustments and enjoy your beautifully altered lace dress.
By following these steps, you can successfully alter your lace dress to fit your body perfectly and add a touch of personal style to your wardrobe.
