How to Alter Carhartt Overalls
Carhartt overalls are a timeless classic, known for their durability and rugged appeal. Whether you’ve inherited a pair from a family member or purchased them second-hand, there’s a good chance you’ll want to alter them to fit your personal style or body type. Altering Carhartt overalls can be a rewarding project that allows you to customize your favorite denim. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of how to alter Carhartt overalls, ensuring a perfect fit and preserving their iconic look.
1. Gather Your Materials
Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials and tools for the alteration process. You’ll need:
– Carhartt overalls
– Measuring tape
– Fabric scissors
– pins
– needles
– thread
– seam ripper (if needed)
– overlock or serger machine (optional)
2. Determine the Areas to Alter
Take a good look at your Carhartt overalls and identify the areas that need alteration. Common adjustments include:
– Shortening the inseam
– Taking in the waist
– Adjusting the hip width
– Shortening the sleeves
– Adding or removing pockets
3. Measure and Mark
Using a measuring tape, measure the areas you want to alter. Make sure to measure both sides of the overalls for symmetry. Once you have your measurements, mark the areas with a fabric pen or chalk.
4. Shortening the Inseam
If you need to shorten the inseam, lay the overalls flat on a hard surface. Cut the inseam at the marked point, being careful not to cut through the seam. After cutting, re-sew the inseam using a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch for a more durable finish.
5. Taking in the Waist
To take in the waist, remove the side seams and re-sew them closer together. Use a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch, and make sure to maintain the original seam allowances. If the overalls have a belt loop, reattach it after the alteration.
6. Adjusting the Hip Width
To adjust the hip width, cut the side seams and re-sew them at the desired width. Make sure to maintain the original seam allowances and reattach any belt loops or other accessories.
7. Shortening the Sleeves
If you need to shorten the sleeves, cut the sleeve at the marked point and re-sew the cuff using a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch. Ensure that the new cuff is even and matches the original style.
8. Adding or Removing Pockets
To add or remove pockets, cut the overalls at the desired location and sew the new pocket in place. For a more authentic look, match the fabric and thread color to the overalls.
9. Finishing Touches
After making all the necessary alterations, give your Carhartt overalls a good press with an iron to set the seams. If you used a serger or overlock machine, trim any excess threads.
10. Wear and Enjoy
Your Carhartt overalls should now fit perfectly and reflect your personal style. Wear them with pride and enjoy the comfort and durability that Carhartt is known for.
By following these steps, you can successfully alter your Carhartt overalls and create a pair that’s uniquely yours. Happy altering!
