How to taper trousers
Trousers are an essential clothing item in any wardrobe, but finding the perfect fit can be a challenge. Often, store-bought trousers are too wide or loose in certain areas, which can affect the overall look and style. The good news is that you can easily tailor your trousers to achieve a perfect fit by tapering them.
Tapering trousers involves taking them in at the waist, hips, and legs, resulting in a more streamlined and flattering silhouette. It’s a relatively simple and cost-effective way to update your wardrobe without having to buy new trousers. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of wearing customized clothing that fits you perfectly.
Before you start tapering your trousers, it’s important to have a sewing machine and basic sewing skills. If you don’t have a sewing machine or experience, you can take your trousers to a tailor or learn the skills yourself with online tutorials and practice. It’s worth investing the time and effort to learn how to taper trousers, as it will give you more control over your wardrobe and save you money in the long run.
The Basics of Tapering Trousers
Tapering trousers refers to the process of narrowing the width of the pants leg from the knee downwards. It is a popular alteration for those who prefer a more modern and fitted look. Tapered trousers can help create the illusion of longer, slimmer legs and a more streamlined silhouette.
Trouser Tapering Tools
Before you begin tapering your trousers, gather the following tools:
- Sewing machine
- Seam ripper
- Pins
- Measuring tape
- Iron
Step-by-Step Guide
- Start by trying on the trousers and deciding how much you want to taper them. Keep in mind that tapering too much may make them uncomfortable, so it’s best to start with small changes.
- Using a seam ripper, carefully remove the stitching along the outer leg seam from the hem to just below the knee. This will allow you to access the fabric and make the necessary alterations.
- Put the trousers on inside out and use pins to mark the new seam line. Begin tapering from below the knee, gradually taking in the fabric along the outer leg seam. Make sure to keep the fabric smooth and avoid puckering.
- Once you are satisfied with the new taper, sew along the pinned seam line using a straight stitch. Double check the fit and make any necessary adjustments before moving on.
- Cut off the excess fabric, leaving a seam allowance of about 1/2 inch. Use pinking shears or overlock the raw edges to prevent fraying.
- Press the tapered seam with an iron to set the stitches and flatten any wrinkles.
- Repeat steps 2-6 for the other leg of the trousers.
- Try on the trousers again and make any final adjustments if needed.
- Lastly, give the trousers a good pressing to ensure a professional finish.
With these basic instructions, you can confidently tackle tapering trousers to achieve a more tailored and fashionable look.
Choosing the Right Trousers
When it comes to choosing the right trousers, there are several factors to consider. Whether you’re looking for a pair of trousers that fit perfectly or ones that are fashionable and trendy, the following tips will help you make the right choice.
Fit
The fit of the trousers is one of the most important aspects to consider. The right fit can make all the difference in how you look and feel. Trousers that are too tight or too loose can be uncomfortable and unflattering. It’s essential to find trousers that fit your body shape and size well.
If you have an hourglass figure, high-waisted trousers that cinch at the waist can accentuate your curves beautifully. For those with a pear-shaped figure, trousers that are wider in the hip area can help balance out the shape. If you have an athletic build, trousers with a straight or slightly relaxed fit can flatter your body type.
Style
In addition to fit, the style of the trousers is another important consideration. The style of the trousers should align with your personal taste and the occasion you plan to wear them for. Casual occasions may call for more relaxed and comfortable styles like straight-leg or bootcut trousers, while formal events may require tailored trousers.
Additionally, consider the fabric and color of the trousers. For warm weather, choose lighter fabrics like cotton or linen, while colder seasons may call for thicker materials like wool or tweed. In terms of color, neutral tones like black, gray, or navy are versatile and can be easily paired with different outfits.
Before purchasing a pair of trousers, it’s also a good idea to try them on and walk around in them to ensure they feel comfortable and allow for easy movement.
In conclusion, choosing the right trousers involves considering factors such as fit, style, fabric, and color. By following these tips, you’ll be able to find trousers that not only fit well but also align with your personal style.
Measuring and Marking
Before you begin tapering your trousers, it’s essential to take accurate measurements to ensure the best fit. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to measure and mark your trousers:
1. Waist Measurement: Use a measuring tape to measure around your natural waistline, which is typically the narrowest part above your hip bones. Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight.
2. Hip Measurement: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, usually around 7 to 9 inches below your natural waistline. Again, ensure the measuring tape is straight and not restrictive.
3. Thigh Measurement: Measure around the widest part of your thigh, usually a few inches below your crotch. Keep the measuring tape parallel to the ground for accurate results.
4. Knee Measurement: Measure around your knee, ensuring the tape is snug but not constricting. This measurement will help determine how much fabric needs to be removed from the lower leg if you prefer a more tapered fit.
5. Length Measurement: From your natural waistline, measure down to your desired trouser length. Depending on your preference and style, this could be ankle length, mid-calf, or any other desired length.
Once you have taken these measurements, use chalk, fabric marking pens, or tailor’s chalk to mark the desired width and length adjustments on the trousers. Ensure the markings are clear and visible.
Remember to double-check your markings before making any alterations to avoid any unnecessary mistakes.
Note: If you are unsure or inexperienced with measuring and marking, it’s always recommended to consult a professional tailor or seamstress for accurate results.
Pinning and Tapering
Once you have determined the desired width of your trousers and have taken the necessary measurements, it’s time to begin pinning and tapering the fabric. Follow these steps to successfully taper your trousers:
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Prepare the Trousers
Start by turning your trousers inside out and laying them on a flat surface. Smooth out any wrinkles or creases so that the fabric is flat and even.
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Pinning the Seams
Using sewing pins, start pinning along the outer leg seams of the trousers. Work your way from the waist to the hem, distributing the pins evenly. Make sure to pin through both layers of fabric and keep the seam allowances aligned.
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Marking the Taper
Once you have pinned the outer leg seams, stand back and examine the fit. If the trousers are still too wide, you can adjust the taper accordingly.
Using a fabric marker or tailor’s chalk, mark a new stitching line that follows the desired taper. Start at the waist and gradually curve in towards the ankle. Make sure your taper line is smooth and doesn’t have any sudden changes in width.
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Securing the Taper
With the taper line marked, remove the pins from the outer leg seams. Fold the fabric along the marked line and re-pin the seams, aligning the edges.
Double-check that the new stitching line is straight and even throughout. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure a smooth and even taper.
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Stitching the New Seam
Using a sewing machine or a needle and thread, stitch along the new stitching line that you marked. Start from the waist and sew all the way down to the hem, removing the pins as you go.
Remember to backstitch at the beginning and end of your stitching to secure the seam.
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Finishing the Taper
After stitching the new seam, try on the trousers to ensure the fit is to your liking. If any further adjustments are needed, make them now before finishing the seams.
Trim the excess fabric from the new seam allowance using fabric scissors. Finish the raw edges of the seam allowances with either a serger or a zigzag stitch on a sewing machine.
With these steps, you can successfully pin and taper your trousers to achieve the desired fit. Take your time, be thorough in your measurements and adjustments, and enjoy a custom fit every time.
Sewing the Tapered Look
Once you have measured and pinned your trousers to achieve the desired taper, it’s time to sew them to create that perfect tapered look. Here are the steps to follow:
| Step 1: | Start at the bottom of the trouser leg and use a sewing machine to sew a straight line along the pinned edge. This will secure the taper in place. Repeat this step on both trouser legs. |
| Step 2: | Next, trim the excess fabric from the inside of the seam. Be careful not to cut into the sewn line. This will reduce the bulk and make the taper look cleaner. |
| Step 3: | After trimming, you can finish the raw edges by using a serger or zigzag stitch. This will prevent them from fraying and ensure longevity. |
| Step 4: | To further strengthen the taper, you can reinforce the seam by topstitching along the outside edge of the trousers. This will add durability and a professional touch. |
| Step 5: | Finally, iron the taper to create a crisp and polished look. This will help the trousers maintain their new shape and ensure they look their best when worn. |
By following these steps, you can achieve a perfectly tapered look for your trousers. Take your time and measure carefully to ensure the best results. Happy sewing!
Finishing Touches and Styling
Once you have successfully tapered your trousers, it’s time to add some finishing touches and style them to complete your desired look. Here are a few tips to consider:
1. Hemming the Trousers
After tapering your trousers, you may need to adjust the length. Measure the desired length and mark it with pins. Then, remove the excess fabric and sew a straight hem to give your trousers a clean finish.
2. Pressing
Before wearing your newly tapered trousers, make sure to press them. Use an iron on the appropriate setting to remove any wrinkles and give your trousers a polished look.
3. Accessorize
Complete your outfit by adding accessories that complement your tapered trousers. Consider wearing a stylish belt, matching shoes, or a statement piece of jewelry to enhance your overall look.
Remember, how you style your trousers can significantly impact your overall appearance. Adjusting the fit and finishing touches can elevate even the simplest outfit and make a statement in your personal style.
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