I think a lot of creators try to make the process look as simple as possible so their video is "nice" and streamlined. I wasted a lot of time watching those videos. Finally this video addresses the questions I was having along the way, like how do I make the armpit fit? The truth is it's NOT that simple; I really appreciated seeing the real process in this video. It's the most informative video I've seen on this subject so far! Thank you!
You made it easy to understand. I'm not a seamstress, but for some reason, everyone wants me to alter their clothes. I had a lady today ask me to do this exact thing. "Oh, it's nothing in depth, just a little hemming". I told her I'll probably ruin her blouses, but she evidently has a LOT of faith in me. I'm so grateful you did this video. I'd seen some of those others, and I wondered how to make allowances for the differences in the shape of the arm hole. Your video at least gives me the confidence to try it. I plan on using your method. It just makes more sense than the other stuff I've seen. Thanks for having the patience to figure it out & share it with us.
Thank you for your feedback! I’m glad it made sense to you. I’d love to hear back on how it went and if you ran into any problems I wasn’t able to foresee.
@@AngelaWoolsey I have the first one done (she gave me 5 to do). It came out great. Wasn't sure I could do it, but your video made it a lot easier than I feared it would be. Hope the others turn out as well as that first one. Thanks so much. You're a lifesaver.
Things like this make me less scared to try my own alterations. You didn't know for sure it would work but you went for it and it did! And both sides came out acceptably good, so even if I get things a little off it'll probably still be fine! It's encouraging.
i get lots of Large and XL tops for free, and have been working on them to make fit Medium size. Thanks for you work!!! I like you approach...reminds me of myself.
For someone who sews and is familiar with basic garment construction, your video definitely made sense. I could follow along and understand your methodology. I found your video in searching for how to alter shoulders on a man's dress shirt. I am doing one for a young lady, but I have never done it before. I was trying to see if you replaced the top stitching after the adjustment(s) was/were made and how. Thank you!
Thankyou thankyou THANKYOOU...this is something ive been desperate to do, but had multiple failed attempts at! Im an experienced sewer, but altering some commercial garments has been my no go zone for ever - but i MUST do. This was SO helpful! The tracing of the original arm scye shape and simply moving it across - to keep the integrity of the sleeve shape so that the sleeve fits back in the right way - was simple but genius! Thankyou.
I have to alter a couple shirts I bought for my son...the shoulders need shortening by about 2 inches...so was looking for a video...and came across yours ...thank you...I will surely try your method...the sleeve is too long ...but I will shorten the shoulders first then check back the length of the sleeve...I may not have to shorten the sleeves
EXCELLENT -- I am so happy to find someone who is precise in their languaging and their steps so there is hardly any wasted time to listen to! Lovely!! I can't wait to watch more - this was the first of yours I've watched.
The most interesting part of what you showed us, is how to play the issue from different scenarios. I just did that last night on my new blouse. I had no clue how to do it and after a few RUclips videos still with doubts about my lack of skills, I got courageous enough to try. Results were not perfect but now looks a lot better than before. Totally happy with my imperfect beginnings. With your ideas I feel a lot more comfortable to fix the other blouse. Thanks.
Thanks! I have a small alterations business and was just brought a shirt that needs the shoulders and sides taken in for a skinny guy. So this was right on target! Thanks you for all the work you put into your videos. This isn't the first one I've watched.
I liked the way you explained. I'm a amateur in sewing, just do mendings, but I needed to fix a top of an uniform (a scrub) that was big for me in the shoulders. I enjoy your explanations and the comparisons that you made. Thank you very much, I live in Aruba and is the first time I see one of your videos, but like it. Now I will do my scrub and cross my fingers that I do a good job. Thank you, Joan
So I’m making my first shirt from a commercial pattern. Come to find out, after I’ve already started it, the finished size is waaaay bigger than what the pattern size says. My 44” chest size ended up being 52”, and the shoulders are way low. Hard lesson learned. I’m going to try and salvage it by downsizing it. The side seam should be easy to take in, it’s the shoulder seam that’s gonna be tough. I’ll give your way a go and hope for the best. If it doesn’t work, I’ll scrap it and start over with a pattern closer to my measurements. Thanks for taking your time to explain your fix 👍🏻☺️
I hope everything works out for you. I was drafting a pants pattern for my grandson yesterday and I was faced again with the one mistake I ALWAYS make, which always involves fit. I know better, but I go into autopilot and continue to make the same mistake lol! Maybe I should make a video on that! lol
@@AngelaWoolsey that would be a great video and should be a first lesson for anyone just learning to make a garment from commercial patterns. As a newbie, commercial pattern sizing doesn’t make sense to me.
That’s because some patterns run big and others run small. Not only that but if you look at the measurements on the back of the envelope the measurements that are for your Ready-To-Wear size is also wrong. You need to look at the measurements on the actual pattern piece to know what size to cut out. Absolutely ridiculous! Why they haven’t updated this I’ll never understand!
Brilliant idea to draw on paper and move it to get the perfect shape /fit on the second sleeve. Good video. Thank you for beautifully explaining everything. Jose from Melbourne Australia
This was such an amazing video! I'm brand new to sewing! I've hemmed a few shorts and a few small projects now, but for my first larger project i thrifts a shirt that is too big and am attempting to tailor it to size. Your method with the tracking of the arm hole will be perfect for my project! Thank you so much!
Great video dealing with shoulders which I always have problem with as drop shoulders don’t look good on me. What I got from your video is check bust and hip measurements first then alter sleeve using paper method. I’ve watched so many videos before on this subject but this video gave me the answers I needed to get it right for me. Thank you so much.
I had to size up for bust space but it's left the shirt too big almost everywhere else, this will be my first go at altering clothing and this guide has made it easy to understand, thank you
I think that was really good, I am shocked it takes so long. I was considering making informative sewing videos myself but not sure it's worth investing 3 days.
I ruined so many shirts in the name of alteration. Thank you for this great video as you have covered most of the problems and gave solutions too. I’ll try another one in few days. Love the paper trick. I noticed you didn’t cut some fabric from the front side armpit as most people do. Thanks again.
This was so useful thank you! I have a dress that fits perfectly from the waist down but needs taking in at the shoulder. Your second method works perfectly for me as I have a smaller bust and wanted to take some fullness out at the sides whilst bringing in the shoulder. Very clear video and I feel very confident going into this project!
Hi Angela, I am from India. Your videos are really good and helpful. The way you described the whole process is really great. This was very helpful. Thanks again!!
Thank you so much, this is a excellent tutorial. I am so small on the shoulders, every top or dress is so big. I will certainly try this way. And Yes your way is the way I will do it. ❤
Hello again Angela i posted the first comment before i watched the whole video as i wanted to thank you. Now i realise just how much trouble i caused you. I am sorry that you had to spend so much time on my behalf. I feel after i watched the video all the way through that i will need to follow your method as the shirt i bought is as large as yours..Wont be doing that again in a hurry...lol..It has given me an idea as how to tackle the alteration and i thank you again for the trouble. Time to give yourself a nice cup of tea and a slice of cake on my behalf..Thanks again and take care. X
It was work, but it’s never trouble :) I learned a lot as well! This is the work that I love to do, so it paid off for both of us. Thank you for the suggestion! Have a great day!
I LOVED LOVED LOVED THIS VIDEO! YOU ARE SUCH AN AWESOME TEACHER! I don't mind the longer videos when the substance is so good! Thanks for showing us how to handle the sleeve situation in such detail!
Than you so much for this video! I'm quite slim for the average male my age, so I can only ever find decent dress shirts that fit my collar size. I have several that have this exact same problem. I think I'll use the second method to get rid of that baggy underarm. I personally am fine with what "bag" is leftover. Just sew in a few rear darts to taper it and voila! Thanks again! This helped so much!
Thanks for all your efforts. I'm in the middle of downsizing a down jacket. I'm covered in feathers and I initially did it like your first effort. Mine have very dropped shoulders and way too long sleeves so now I've undone that and am trying to refit the sleeves as inset sleeves. That for tomorrow. Thanks again for the ideas.
I really liked your video. You have a great teaching vibe that's understandable and achievable !!! Your videos give me so much confidence and you remove the mystery of altering so it's not intimidating ! Thank you so much !
Thank you for this video. This is how I would have done it myself. Can you please put up a video of how to reduce puffed sleeves on a dress. Many thanks
This was helpful. I would have done it similar to you did. The one improvement I would have appreciated is if you had used a solid shirt so it was easier to see what you were doing. But, as I said, this was definitely very helpful.
Such a great video! Thank you for this. I think we have similar proportions and I’m always having trouble fitting around the shoulders and armpit and chest. 😂 This looks like a solution I can do.
Hii...Thanks a lot for putting such efforts to explain in detail. I'm glad to have come across ur video for I'm about to alter a shirt. A big thanks to u dear.
Watched this recently and have just altered three blouses that were just too big across shoulders… with great success!!! This method made complete sense to me!! Thank you…😁
Hi Angela. I wish i have seen your video before I salvaged one of my favourite shirt. Your explanations are clear and easy to follow. Very good video. I subscribed.
After I removed the stitches, I applied heat and steam with my iron to soften it and pulled off the loose adhesive and rolled off the adhesive that was really stuck on, with my thumbs.
Your concept for altering the shirt was good, and I know you worked very hard on it. This is not criticism…Just a little hint for the next time you do this. Take the whole sleeve out and open the seam and then open the seam on the shirt. When you cut them down, then you sew it all back together, and your sleeve is also slightly smaller and will fit much better. You won’t have all this extra work to do to fit it, Another hint would be for someone who is a novice… is to take a pattern of a shirt that fits and use it as a guide. I’m sure people will ask what the heck I know… 30 years sewing experience.
hi my issue is i don’t need to reduce armpit to armpit down - only above so this leaves the sleeve smaller than the armpit hole - how do I resolve that please
Hi, I agree with all of the other remarks. I have been sewing for many years and I thought it was great. I was wondering if you have ever looked at Nancy Ziemans " Pivot and slide technique". If you haven't i hope you do because you are thinking about it just like her. That's a huge compliment in my book. Bye for now!
Susan edlund Thank you! That is a huge compliment! I haven’t seen many of her videos, but I’ve read a lot about her and own some books. She was one of the great seamstresses and very talented. Unfortunately I’ve never heard of her pivot and slide technique, but I will soon! I’ll check it out!
Would it be possible for you to make a video on how to alter a tshirt or blouse to fit bigger hips. I buy a top to fit my hips and the neck shoulder etc are way to big. Any thing you can do would be appreciated. Thank you.
Yes, I can do that. I'll be going out of town until about Jan 6th, but when I get back, I'll definitely do this. Are you looking for just an alteration or a redesign? I don't know your skill level.
This was great! Very helpful & rational! May I ask about a scenario where the cuts to the front & backs of the armhole are different (i.e. the back is less so)? How do you create a template for that? Thank you again!
Sometimes it is hard to find. The way that works best for me is to insert the tip of your seam ripper under the entire chain of threads at one end of the stitching and cut, but don’t cut all the threads. Stop before cutting “the last one” that’s usually the one that will unravel. If that doesn’t work, do again at the other end of the stitching.
In this video, I go over how to do a flat felled seam. You'll need to press the seam to the side of the shirt and not the sleeve. ruclips.net/video/1Ip8Z3glufk/видео.html
I'm not an expert but have sewn for years. My biggest problem is how to change shoulders which droup, , neck which is usually too low, underarms to waist too large and hips to small. I am a pear shape. Most of the time it needs almost a complete make over. If this is too much any advise would be helpful. Thank you.
Hello @groving2 I'm just getting on here to let you know I'm thinking about your request. I have a few things ahead of this one, but am excited to get started on this.
Thanks smuch .. I have a oversize shirt , but it's way to oversize . I just watched your video , just what I needed but BUT , my shoulders is about 3 inches to big and so is the body .. oh my could that be done? .. I bought a oversize cause I like oversize .. I ordered size xL . But I'm sure it's not xl cause it's 2 0r 3 sizes to big ... Hope u can help and thanks for the work it is to do your video . 🇨🇦♥️
Hi Angela. The most informational video I’ve seen hands down! However, I’m wondering about the arm cut out you made. Most of the pattern tops I’ve seen, the back shoulder extends much further out than the front. Would making a pattern for both the front and the back separately work? I’m in a mess, I didn’t think about that issue and cut the bodice to fit the shoulder, when I tried sewing the sleeve back on, there was actually too much bodice and actually ran out of sleeve fabric. I had to buy a huge shirt to fit the neck which made the rest of the shirt way too big. I took two inches off each side seam and sleeve seam. Please help me, I am in a pickle, it’s for my fiancé to wear for our wedding! Because of his huge neck size (19”) I just can’t buy any shirt and have it fit.
Thank you! Yes, the back does usually extend out further and I was expecting that, but the front and the back were the same on this shirt. I think it's because there was a pleat at the center back of the shirt that allows for movement.
@@stephaniepage7662 I'm sorry, I was a little distracted when I read it and didn't realize there was more to read. Ok, I read it and I'm a little confused when you said you "cut the bodice to fit the shoulder." I can't visualize it. if you can explain it a different way, perhaps I can help.
Yes, you can make a pattern for the front and one for the back. That’s how I would have done it. Making sure the top of both patterns matched up at the same point on the shoulder seam. Does that make sense?
Angela Woolsey . So sorry Angela that I was unclear. When I said I cut the bodice I meant that I cut the front and back of the shirt to try to accurately fit the shoulder width plus 1/2 “ to allow for seam allowance of my fiancé. I hope that clears your confusion.
I’ll try to remember to cover that type of thing in the future. In this instance there was a number of things to consider when doing an alteration. Narrow shoulders, but large chest area, weight that results in narrowing of shoulder and chest area, narrowing of shoulders and chest, but you need to keep the armhole low. Etc. This is all going through my mind at the time and I felt inadequate to explain without confusion. I’ll definitely work on that.
I think a lot of creators try to make the process look as simple as possible so their video is "nice" and streamlined. I wasted a lot of time watching those videos. Finally this video addresses the questions I was having along the way, like how do I make the armpit fit? The truth is it's NOT that simple; I really appreciated seeing the real process in this video. It's the most informative video I've seen on this subject so far! Thank you!
That paper trick was great! Thanks for showing both methods on the same garment!
I've watched so many videos about altering the shoulder and the armhole and this is the best of all. So clearly explained. Thank you 💖
It takes a special kind of person to dedicate time and effort to helping someone else! thank you.
🌹🍀💐🌞💓
Thank you! I was surprised at how much I love teaching. 😊
✅Such a great video tutorial...so straightforward and clear. TFS *9/2024
You made it easy to understand. I'm not a seamstress, but for some reason, everyone wants me to alter their clothes. I had a lady today ask me to do this exact thing. "Oh, it's nothing in depth, just a little hemming". I told her I'll probably ruin her blouses, but she evidently has a LOT of faith in me. I'm so grateful you did this video. I'd seen some of those others, and I wondered how to make allowances for the differences in the shape of the arm hole. Your video at least gives me the confidence to try it. I plan on using your method. It just makes more sense than the other stuff I've seen. Thanks for having the patience to figure it out & share it with us.
Thank you for your feedback! I’m glad it made sense to you. I’d love to hear back on how it went and if you ran into any problems I wasn’t able to foresee.
@@AngelaWoolsey I have the first one done (she gave me 5 to do). It came out great. Wasn't sure I could do it, but your video made it a lot easier than I feared it would be. Hope the others turn out as well as that first one. Thanks so much. You're a lifesaver.
That’s awesome! I’m glad it worked!
Was the way she removed that top stitching magic to anyone else
Things like this make me less scared to try my own alterations. You didn't know for sure it would work but you went for it and it did! And both sides came out acceptably good, so even if I get things a little off it'll probably still be fine! It's encouraging.
Thank you! Yes, it’s great when you just go for it and it turns out. If it doesn’t turn out, then you know what doesn’t work. Lol
i get lots of Large and XL tops for free, and have been working on them to make fit Medium size. Thanks for you work!!! I like you approach...reminds me of myself.
For someone who sews and is familiar with basic garment construction, your video definitely made sense. I could follow along and understand your methodology. I found your video in searching for how to alter shoulders on a man's dress shirt. I am doing one for a young lady, but I have never done it before. I was trying to see if you replaced the top stitching after the adjustment(s) was/were made and how. Thank you!
Thank you for your comment. I appreciate the feedback.
Thankyou thankyou THANKYOOU...this is something ive been desperate to do, but had multiple failed attempts at! Im an experienced sewer, but altering some commercial garments has been my no go zone for ever - but i MUST do. This was SO helpful! The tracing of the original arm scye shape and simply moving it across - to keep the integrity of the sleeve shape so that the sleeve fits back in the right way - was simple but genius! Thankyou.
Some can be very difficult to alter. I hope this technique works for you! 😊
I agree 100% Roxann Legg...you are on point
I have to alter a couple shirts I bought for my son...the shoulders need shortening by about 2 inches...so was looking for a video...and came across yours ...thank you...I will surely try your method...the sleeve is too long ...but I will shorten the shoulders first then check back the length of the sleeve...I may not have to shorten the sleeves
EXCELLENT -- I am so happy to find someone who is precise in their languaging and their steps so there is hardly any wasted time to listen to! Lovely!! I can't wait to watch more - this was the first of yours I've watched.
The most interesting part of what you showed us, is how to play the issue from different scenarios. I just did that last night on my new blouse. I had no clue how to do it and after a few RUclips videos still with doubts about my lack of skills, I got courageous enough to try. Results were not perfect but now looks a lot better than before. Totally happy with my imperfect beginnings. With your ideas I feel a lot more comfortable to fix the other blouse. Thanks.
Thank you for your comment! I appreciate it. If you’re worried about messing up, always work through it on a blouse you don’t want. :)
Thanks! I have a small alterations business and was just brought a shirt that needs the shoulders and sides taken in for a skinny guy. So this was right on target! Thanks you for all the work you put into your videos. This isn't the first one I've watched.
I liked the way you explained. I'm a amateur in sewing, just do mendings, but I needed to fix a top of an uniform (a scrub) that was big for me in the shoulders. I enjoy your explanations and the comparisons that you made. Thank you very much, I live in Aruba and is the first time I see one of your videos, but like it. Now I will do my scrub
and cross my fingers that I do a good job. Thank you, Joan
Good luck! I hope it goes well.
@@AngelaWoolsey Thank you🤗
So I’m making my first shirt from a commercial pattern. Come to find out, after I’ve already started it, the finished size is waaaay bigger than what the pattern size says. My 44” chest size ended up being 52”, and the shoulders are way low. Hard lesson learned. I’m going to try and salvage it by downsizing it. The side seam should be easy to take in, it’s the shoulder seam that’s gonna be tough. I’ll give your way a go and hope for the best. If it doesn’t work, I’ll scrap it and start over with a pattern closer to my measurements. Thanks for taking your time to explain your fix 👍🏻☺️
I hope everything works out for you. I was drafting a pants pattern for my grandson yesterday and I was faced again with the one mistake I ALWAYS make, which always involves fit. I know better, but I go into autopilot and continue to make the same mistake lol! Maybe I should make a video on that! lol
@@AngelaWoolsey that would be a great video and should be a first lesson for anyone just learning to make a garment from commercial patterns. As a newbie, commercial pattern sizing doesn’t make sense to me.
That’s because some patterns run big and others run small. Not only that but if you look at the measurements on the back of the envelope the measurements that are for your Ready-To-Wear size is also wrong. You need to look at the measurements on the actual pattern piece to know what size to cut out. Absolutely ridiculous! Why they haven’t updated this I’ll never understand!
I think you did a great job explaining everything.
Brilliant idea to draw on paper and move it to get the perfect shape /fit on the second sleeve. Good video. Thank you for beautifully explaining everything. Jose from Melbourne Australia
Thank u, now i feel more confident in my sleeve alteration
This was such an amazing video! I'm brand new to sewing! I've hemmed a few shorts and a few small projects now, but for my first larger project i thrifts a shirt that is too big and am attempting to tailor it to size. Your method with the tracking of the arm hole will be perfect for my project! Thank you so much!
Great video dealing with shoulders which I always have problem with as drop shoulders don’t look good on me.
What I got from your video is check bust and hip measurements first then alter sleeve using paper method.
I’ve watched so many videos before on this subject but this video gave me the answers I needed to get it right for me. Thank you so much.
Nothing more wonderful than the sound of sharp scissors that only cuts fabric..
Thank you for this comparison approach. I have taken the 2nd approach with more satisfaction. Sometimes, I add darts for women's shirts.
Side bust darts? If so, do you have to trim the hem to make it even?
I had to size up for bust space but it's left the shirt too big almost everywhere else, this will be my first go at altering clothing and this guide has made it easy to understand, thank you
Had this issue while sewing from a pattern. Hate "unisex" patterns! Do not like the feel of "dropped" shoulders! Thanks sooo much for the help!
I think that was really good, I am shocked it takes so long. I was considering making informative sewing videos myself but not sure it's worth investing 3 days.
I definitely don’t do it for the money! Lol I enjoy helping people.
I ruined so many shirts in the name of alteration. Thank you for this great video as you have covered most of the problems and gave solutions too. I’ll try another one in few days. Love the paper trick. I noticed you didn’t cut some fabric from the front side armpit as most people do.
Thanks again.
Thank you for your comment. I hope this method works for you!
Thanks Angela for taking the time to explain this as it's a little daunting to attempt this.
What you did makes so much sense and I will use your method going forward to change shoulder width.Thank you for your great video.
Very nicely explained the alteration process and its outcome depending on how it is cut 👍
I'm going to cut a paper pattern of shoulder/armhole/side of a shirt that already fits. Thanks for the inspiration!
Thank you for your work on this Anglea. Much appreciated your approach.
This was so useful thank you! I have a dress that fits perfectly from the waist down but needs taking in at the shoulder. Your second method works perfectly for me as I have a smaller bust and wanted to take some fullness out at the sides whilst bringing in the shoulder. Very clear video and I feel very confident going into this project!
Hi Angela. Great video and clearly explained. I like the way you did your way of alterating the shirt. Thank you for sharing.
Just what I needed! I was able to follow and have done the alterations on my shirt as you explained. And it fits me perfectly now.
Thanks!
I’m so glad to hear it worked out!
Thank you very much. Your video is very easy to understand. Thanks again for all the time and energy it toke.
Re Cj It’s my pleasure! I love the challenge!
Thank you for putting in the work and teaching us noobs how to get shit done. Leaving a sub and like.
Thank you! It was not best for me as i want to save length of chest but it was nice to see your progress trial and error 😊
Hi Angela, I am from India. Your videos are really good and helpful. The way you described the whole process is really great. This was very helpful. Thanks again!!
Thank you Divant Jain, I appreciate that! Your comments are very encouraging.
Thank you so much, this is a excellent tutorial. I am so small on the shoulders, every top or dress is so big. I will certainly try this way. And Yes your way is the way I will do it. ❤
Thank you, I’d love to know how it works for you!
@@AngelaWoolsey I will, you explained everything so clearly. I’ve have just subscribed to your channel, and I think I will be following you a lot.
Thank you, I appreciate that. Welcome to the channel.
Hello again Angela i posted the first comment before i watched the whole video as i wanted to thank you. Now i realise just how much trouble i caused you. I am sorry that you had to spend so much time on my behalf. I feel after i watched the video all the way through that i will need to follow your method as the shirt i bought is as large as yours..Wont be doing that again in a hurry...lol..It has given me an idea as how to tackle the alteration and i thank you again for the trouble. Time to give yourself a nice cup of tea and a slice of cake on my behalf..Thanks again and take care. X
It was work, but it’s never trouble :) I learned a lot as well! This is the work that I love to do, so it paid off for both of us. Thank you for the suggestion! Have a great day!
I LOVED LOVED LOVED THIS VIDEO! YOU ARE SUCH AN AWESOME TEACHER! I don't mind the longer videos when the substance is so good! Thanks for showing us how to handle the sleeve situation in such detail!
Thank you! I appreciate your comments.
Than you so much for this video! I'm quite slim for the average male my age, so I can only ever find decent dress shirts that fit my collar size. I have several that have this exact same problem. I think I'll use the second method to get rid of that baggy underarm. I personally am fine with what "bag" is leftover. Just sew in a few rear darts to taper it and voila! Thanks again! This helped so much!
Ivan Kostamo Thank you for your feedback. I really appreciate it!
Great Video, you explained it so well. I have more confidence to try shorten the shoulder. Thank you.
Im a little less anxious about trying this myself now. Thank you for sharing!
I’m sure you’ll do great!
This is helpful teaching
Thanks for all your efforts. I'm in the middle of downsizing a down jacket. I'm covered in feathers and I initially did it like your first effort. Mine have very dropped shoulders and way too long sleeves so now I've undone that and am trying to refit the sleeves as inset sleeves. That for tomorrow. Thanks again for the ideas.
OMGosh! Good luck! I hope you get a great fit!
I really liked your video. You have a great teaching vibe that's understandable and achievable !!! Your videos give me so much confidence and you remove the mystery of altering so it's not intimidating ! Thank you so much !
Wow! Thank you! I really appreciate you telling me that. Your words give me confidence and encourage me!
Amazing and very useful explanation .i've learned so much from this video, it is worthy to watch .thank you so much ❤
This is a hard one. Those sleeve insets are so three-dimensional. But this is the closest video for dealing with all those issues.
Hi Angela...Thank you so much for the video..Bless you. Your pronounciation was perfect. X
Yay!! People mispronounce mine all the time! 🤷🏻♀️ I hope this video is helpful. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you for confirming what I what I've been thinking but not quite sure how to execute. Love the paper armhole template idea ❤
Thank you!
I am very happy with your effort! Thanks you did a great job❤
Thank you for this video. This is how I would have done it myself. Can you please put up a video of how to reduce puffed sleeves on a dress. Many thanks
Yes, But I’ll need to find a garment with puffy sleeves.
Thanks, beautifully done. I am going to try tomorrow.
Excellent video! I'm definitely going to try this with some thrift store finds!
I’d love to hear how it worked out for you!
Thank you very much. Well understood. Well done!
Great video, thank you for taking the time to make it. I'm in the process of altering a few shirts and this information is very helpful.
Totally agree with your way of doing it. Great job.
Thank you!
It's very helpful! Thank you!!
This was helpful. I would have done it similar to you did. The one improvement I would have appreciated is if you had used a solid shirt so it was easier to see what you were doing. But, as I said, this was definitely very helpful.
Such a great video! Thank you for this. I think we have similar proportions and I’m always having trouble fitting around the shoulders and armpit and chest. 😂 This looks like a solution I can do.
I’ve been sewing forever and I’m still never happy with the fitting on my own clothes. Lol
Hii...Thanks a lot for putting such efforts to explain in detail. I'm glad to have come across ur video for I'm about to alter a shirt. A big thanks to u dear.
I love the way you are doing it.
Thank you!
Thanks to show us the difference of the projects🙏🙏
Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge.
Great video. It may be just me but I'd prefer seeing a demo with a solid color shirt.
Yes, That would make for a better video, but this is what I had on hand. Perhaps I can redo it in a solid color somewhere down the road.
This was a very helpful video.. Thankyou for making it.
My pleasure 😊
Hi again - i cant telll you just how many times Ive referred to your video, thankyou - you have very underrated materiall on your channel.
Thank you! I appreciate your kind comment. I'm so glad my videos are helpful for you.
Thanks you for showing very useful video 💐💐
You’re welcome :)
Love it, except most of the time, the back of a shirt outline is not the same as the front. Therefore wouldn’t you have to make separate templates?
Yes, they usually are a little different, so I'd make separate templates.
Thank you so much for the share! This is very helpful🤗
You are so welcome!
You did an awesome job is describing your work! Thank you!🤗
Thank you!!
Watched this recently and have just altered three blouses that were just too big across shoulders… with great success!!! This method made complete sense to me!! Thank you…😁
I am so glad! Thank you for the feedback!
Hi Angela. I wish i have seen your video before I salvaged one of my favourite shirt.
Your explanations are clear and easy to follow. Very good video. I subscribed.
Thank you! Is it something you can fix?
Excellent video! Would you elaborate on what you mean by dealing with the glue issue? What is the best way to remove the glue?
After I removed the stitches, I applied heat and steam with my iron to soften it and pulled off the loose adhesive and rolled off the adhesive that was really stuck on, with my thumbs.
Thank you so much for great help.
You're welcome!
Your concept for altering the shirt was good, and I know you worked very hard on it. This is not criticism…Just a little hint for the next time you do this. Take the whole sleeve out and open the seam and then open the seam on the shirt. When you cut them down, then you sew it all back together, and your sleeve is also slightly smaller and will fit much better. You won’t have all this extra work to do to fit it, Another hint would be for someone who is a novice… is to take a pattern of a shirt that fits and use it as a guide.
I’m sure people will ask what the heck I know… 30 years sewing experience.
hi my issue is i don’t need to reduce armpit to armpit down - only above so this leaves the sleeve smaller than the armpit hole - how do I resolve that please
Thank you very much, I found this video quite useful.
You’re welcome!
your way is perfect i shall try on my husband shirts thank you
It was a great try.. Thanks
I did it and came out very nice. Thanks
Wonderful!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Love your videos!
Thank you!
Thank you so much Angela, am appreciate it & its help a lot. God bless you and take care!😊
Thank you!
Hi, I agree with all of the other remarks. I have been sewing for many years and I thought it was great. I was wondering if you have ever looked at Nancy Ziemans " Pivot and slide technique". If you haven't i hope you do because you are thinking about it just like her. That's a huge compliment in my book. Bye for now!
Susan edlund Thank you! That is a huge compliment! I haven’t seen many of her videos, but I’ve read a lot about her and own some books. She was one of the great seamstresses and very talented. Unfortunately I’ve never heard of her pivot and slide technique, but I will soon! I’ll check it out!
Would it be possible for you to make a video on how to alter a tshirt or blouse to fit bigger hips. I buy a top to fit my hips and the neck shoulder etc are way to big. Any thing you can do would be appreciated. Thank you.
Yes, I can do that. I'll be going out of town until about Jan 6th, but when I get back, I'll definitely do this. Are you looking for just an alteration or a redesign? I don't know your skill level.
Thank you, it was very clear and I will be using your technique!
Great video & presentation, but I have one suggestion-----use a solid color fabric because it was difficult learning with a busy plaid fabric.
I would have but I don't have solid colors in stock at this time. I'll definitely keep my eyes open for solid colors. Thank you for the suggestion!
This was great! Very helpful & rational!
May I ask about a scenario where the cuts to the front & backs of the armhole are different (i.e. the back is less so)? How do you create a template for that?
Thank you again!
In a case like that, I'd cut a different template for each. then cut them separately.
How did you get that chain stitching out so easy. I’m trying to rip out a blouse to try your method and I can’t seam to get that come out easily
Sometimes it is hard to find. The way that works best for me is to insert the tip of your seam ripper under the entire chain of threads at one end of the stitching and cut, but don’t cut all the threads. Stop before cutting “the last one” that’s usually the one that will unravel. If that doesn’t work, do again at the other end of the stitching.
Best video I’ve seen on the subject thank you so much!!
Thank you!
Great teaching
Thank you!
Watching this video in November 2024: the right side I think could use a bust dart; there’s some pulling at center front across the bust apex.
Thank you.. so informative... but how can you redo the flat filled seam in the sleeve ..
In this video, I go over how to do a flat felled seam. You'll need to press the seam to the side of the shirt and not the sleeve. ruclips.net/video/1Ip8Z3glufk/видео.html
@@AngelaWoolsey thank you
Do you have a video or can you make a video of where to unhem or take out the stiches like you did? Tanx!
Yes, I’d be happy to do a video on how to remove chain stitches.
@@AngelaWoolsey Thanks!
@@JM-jb1bh ruclips.net/video/iLauZFCmajE/видео.html
I'm not an expert but have sewn for years. My biggest problem is how to change shoulders which droup, , neck which is usually too low, underarms to waist too large and hips to small. I am a pear shape. Most of the time it needs almost a complete make over. If this is too much any advise would be helpful. Thank you.
Hello @groving2 I'm just getting on here to let you know I'm thinking about your request. I have a few things ahead of this one, but am excited to get started on this.
thar was very understandable, thank you
Thanks smuch .. I have a oversize shirt , but it's way to oversize . I just watched your video , just what I needed but BUT , my shoulders is about 3 inches to big and so is the body .. oh my could that be done? .. I bought a oversize cause I like oversize .. I ordered size xL . But I'm sure it's not xl cause it's 2 0r 3 sizes to big ... Hope u can help and thanks for the work it is to do your video . 🇨🇦♥️
Let me see what I have in my stash of clothing to practice on. If I have something that I can remove 3” on, I can do a trial and error video.
@@AngelaWoolsey that would be great .. I think it's more than 3 inches!!! LOL... Will be looking forward to hear from you 🇨🇦🤔💗
@@AngelaWoolsey still waiting 🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦
Hi Angela. The most informational video I’ve seen hands down! However, I’m wondering about the arm cut out you made. Most of the pattern tops I’ve seen, the back shoulder extends much further out than the front. Would making a pattern for both the front and the back separately work? I’m in a mess, I didn’t think about that issue and cut the bodice to fit the shoulder, when I tried sewing the sleeve back on, there was actually too much bodice and actually ran out of sleeve fabric. I had to buy a huge shirt to fit the neck which made the rest of the shirt way too big. I took two inches off each side seam and sleeve seam. Please help me, I am in a pickle, it’s for my fiancé to wear for our wedding! Because of his huge neck size (19”) I just can’t buy any shirt and have it fit.
Thank you! Yes, the back does usually extend out further and I was expecting that, but the front and the back were the same on this shirt. I think it's because there was a pleat at the center back of the shirt that allows for movement.
Thanks for the reply😃. Do you have any suggestions about my other dilemmas?
@@stephaniepage7662 I'm sorry, I was a little distracted when I read it and didn't realize there was more to read. Ok, I read it and I'm a little confused when you said you "cut the bodice to fit the shoulder." I can't visualize it. if you can explain it a different way, perhaps I can help.
Yes, you can make a pattern for the front and one for the back. That’s how I would have done it. Making sure the top of both patterns matched up at the same point on the shoulder seam. Does that make sense?
Angela Woolsey . So sorry Angela that I was unclear. When I said I cut the bodice I meant that I cut the front and back of the shirt to try to accurately fit the shoulder width plus 1/2 “ to allow for seam allowance of my fiancé. I hope that clears your confusion.
Very helpful thank you ... approximately how much should I charge for such work?
I couldn’t say. You could call a local alterations shop and ask what they charge and go from there.
Wish you explained more why the other alteration methods don't work.
I’ll try to remember to cover that type of thing in the future. In this instance there was a number of things to consider when doing an alteration. Narrow shoulders, but large chest area, weight that results in narrowing of shoulder and chest area, narrowing of shoulders and chest, but you need to keep the armhole low. Etc. This is all going through my mind at the time and I felt inadequate to explain without confusion. I’ll definitely work on that.