How to Alter a One Piece Swimsuit
Embarking on a beach vacation or a summer pool party can be exciting, but it’s often accompanied by the challenge of finding the perfect swimsuit. Sometimes, the swimsuit that catches your eye may not fit quite right, or you may have found a great one but it needs a bit of tweaking to fit your body perfectly. Whether it’s a bit too big, too small, or just doesn’t fit quite right, altering a one piece swimsuit can be a simple and rewarding DIY project. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to alter a one piece swimsuit so it fits like a second skin.
Step 1: Assess the Fit
Before you start making any alterations, take a good look at your swimsuit and determine where it needs adjusting. Common issues include a loose bust area, tight waist, or excess fabric in the hips and legs. Pinch the fabric in the areas where it’s not fitting properly to identify the problem spots.
Step 2: Gather Your Tools
To successfully alter your swimsuit, you’ll need a few essential tools. These include a swimsuit alteration kit, which typically includes a sewing needle, thread, and pins, as well as a tailor’s chalk or a fabric marker to mark your measurements. Additionally, a measuring tape and a pair of sharp scissors will be helpful.
Step 3: Make Marks
Using your tailor’s chalk or fabric marker, mark the areas where you want to remove or add fabric. Be sure to make your marks clearly and accurately, as they will guide your stitching. For a bust adjustment, mark along the top edge of the swimsuit, while for a waist adjustment, mark along the sides and possibly the bottom edge.
Step 4: Cut the Fabric
With a pair of sharp scissors, carefully cut along the marked lines, being cautious not to cut through the lining or any reinforcing materials. For a bust adjustment, you may need to cut a straight line across the top edge, while for a waist adjustment, you might need to cut a curve along the sides and bottom edge.
Step 5: Remove or Add Fabric
If the swimsuit is too big, you’ll need to remove fabric. Cut the excess fabric from the marked areas and discard it. If the swimsuit is too small, you’ll need to add fabric. In this case, you’ll be sewing a dart or gathering the fabric to create more room. For a dart, make a straight cut across the marked line and sew the edges together at a 45-degree angle. For gathering, pull the threads tight to create pleats and sew them down.
Step 6: Sew the Edges
Once you’ve removed or added the necessary fabric, it’s time to sew the edges back together. Use a zigzag stitch or a stretch stitch to ensure the seams are flexible and won’t rip under the stress of swimming. If you’re adding fabric, be sure to reinforce the new seams with a zigzag stitch to prevent fraying.
Step 7: Trim and Steam
After sewing, trim any excess threads and give your swimsuit a good steam to remove any wrinkles. This will help the swimsuit lay flat and smooth against your skin.
Conclusion
Altering a one piece swimsuit can be a fun and empowering project that allows you to customize your swimwear to fit your body perfectly. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can transform a swimsuit that doesn’t fit quite right into a favorite piece of beachwear. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy your perfect fit!
