How to Alter Bunching in Back of Dress Sway Back
Bunching in the back of a dress, particularly in the sway back area, can be a common issue that affects the overall fit and comfort of the garment. Whether it’s a wedding dress, a formal gown, or a casual dress, this problem can be quite frustrating. However, with the right techniques and tools, you can easily alter the dress to eliminate the bunching and achieve a perfect fit. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to alter bunching in the back of a dress sway back.
Understanding the Issue
Before diving into the alteration process, it’s essential to understand the cause of the bunching. The sway back is a natural curve in the lower back, and it can sometimes cause the fabric to pull and create a pleat or a fold. This issue is more common in dresses with a fitted waist or those that have a lot of fabric in the back. Identifying the root cause will help you determine the best approach to fix the problem.
Materials and Tools Needed
To alter the dress, you will need the following materials and tools:
– Seam ripper
– Measuring tape
– Scissors
– Pins
– Thread
– Sewing machine or needle and thread for hand-sewing
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Identify the Bunching Area: Pin the dress to the body and locate the area where the bunching occurs. Make sure the dress is on a flat surface to get an accurate measurement.
2. Measure the Bunching: Use the measuring tape to measure the width of the bunching. This will help you determine how much fabric needs to be removed.
3. Mark the Adjustment Line: On the back of the dress, mark the adjustment line along the center back seam. This line should be parallel to the floor and should extend from the bottom of the dress to the point where the bunching starts.
4. Remove the Seam Allowance: Using the seam ripper, carefully remove the seam allowance from the marked adjustment line. Be sure to leave the stitching along the center back seam intact.
5. Cut the Fabric: Cut the fabric along the marked adjustment line, ensuring that you only cut through the seam allowance and not the stitching.
6. Remove the Excess Fabric: Take out the excess fabric from the bunching area by cutting it away. Make sure to leave a small amount of fabric to maintain the shape of the dress.
7. Pin the New Seam Allowance: Re-pin the new seam allowance, ensuring that it is even and straight.
8. Sew the New Seam: Using the sewing machine or needle and thread, sew the new seam allowance. Make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of the seam to secure it.
9. Press the Seam: Use an iron to press the seam open, ensuring that the fabric lies flat and smooth.
10. Reconstruct the Hem: If the bunching was caused by an uneven hem, trim the excess fabric and reconstruct the hem following the original hemline.
Conclusion
Altering bunching in the back of a dress sway back is a straightforward process that can be done with minimal tools and materials. By following these steps, you can achieve a perfect fit and eliminate any discomfort caused by the bunching. Remember to take your time and be patient during the alteration process, as a well-fitted dress can make all the difference in your overall appearance.
