Master the Art of Tapering Pants with a Sewing Machine: Tips and Tricks

AvatarByJill Nammar

Are you tired of wearing ill-fitting pants that don’t quite hit the mark? Look no further! In this article, we will show you how to take your sewing skills to the next level and perfectly taper your pants with a sewing machine. No more bulging or baggy fabric, just sleek and tailored trousers that will flatter your figure. Say goodbye to expensive tailoring costs and hello to DIY mastery. Get ready to transform your wardrobe with our step-by-step guide on how to taper pants with a sewing machine.

Understanding Tapering in Sewing

Tapering is a sewing technique that involves narrowing the width of a garment. This can be done to create a more fitted look or to adjust the size of a garment. Tapering pants, in particular, is a common alteration that can completely transform the fit and style of a pair of pants.

There are several reasons why someone may need to taper their pants. For instance, if you have lost weight or bought pants with a larger size due to your body type, the pant legs may be too loose and unflattering. Alternatively, if you’ve found your perfect pair of pants with the perfect fit at the waist, but they’re too wide around your legs, tapering can help achieve a more streamlined silhouette.

Tapering is also useful when altering thrifted or vintage pants that may have been made for different body types and styles. By tapering them to fit your shape, you can give these pieces new life and make them feel custom-made for you.

Tools Needed for Tapering Pants

Before learning how to taper pants using a sewing machine, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools. These tools will not only make the process easier but also ensure that you achieve professional-looking results.

1) Sewing Machine: A good sewing machine is essential when it comes to any sewing project. You don’t necessarily need an expensive one; just make sure it can handle medium-weight fabrics like denim or twill.

2) Measuring Tape: A measuring tape is crucial for taking accurate measurements of your garment before beginning any alterations.

3) Fabric Chalk or Washable Marker: These tools are used for marking where the new seams will be sewn on your garment.

4) Pins and Needles: These are used for holding fabric pieces together while sewing.

5) Thread: Make sure you have a thread that is strong enough for the fabric of your pants.

6) Seam Ripper: A seam ripper allows you to easily remove any existing stitches on your garment when making alterations.

7) Tailor’s or Dressmaker’s Shears: These scissors are specifically designed for cutting fabric and will make your job much easier than using regular scissors.

Preparing the Pants for Tapering

Before you start tapering your pants, it’s important to prepare the garment properly. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and successful tapering process:

1) Try on the Pants: Put on the pants and determine how much you want to take in at each side. You can use fabric chalk or a washable marker to make marks where you want the new seams to be.

2) Turn Your Pants Inside Out: To access the inner seams, turn your pants inside out. This will also prevent any visible markings from ruining the outside of your pants.

3) Remove Excess Fabric: Using a seam ripper, carefully unpick any stitching along both side seams from ankle to waistband. This will allow you to remove any excess fabric easily.

4) Iron the Seams Flat: Before starting to sew, iron out all your pant seams flat. This step will help ensure your stitches are neat and even.

How To Taper Pants Using a Sewing Machine

Once you have gathered all your tools and prepared your pants, it’s time to start the tapering process. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a professional-looking result:

1) Measure and Mark New Seams: Using your measuring tape and fabric chalk, measure in from both side seams on each leg at equal distances (based on how much tapered look you want). Mark these points with chalk or washable marker as guides for sewing new seams.

2) Pin Fabric Together: With right sides facing, pin the seams together along the marked lines. Make sure the pins are perpendicular to the seamline to avoid any puckering.

3) Sew New Seam: Using a straight stitch, start sewing at the top of the pant leg just below the waistband. Remember to backstitch at the beginning and end of your stitches to secure them in place.

4) Gradually Taper as You Sew: As you sew, make sure to gradually taper your stitch line towards the marked point on your leg. This will ensure a smooth transition from new seam to existing seam.

5) Finish with Zig-zag Stitch: To prevent fraying, finish off your new seam by using a zig-zag stitch along its raw edge.

6) Trim Excess Fabric: Once you’ve completed sewing both sides, trim off any excess fabric from your new seams. Leave approximately ¼ inch for seam allowance.

7) Iron Seams Flat Again: Flip your pants right side out and iron your new seams flat again for a neat look.

Final Touches

After tapering your pants, try them on to check that they fit perfectly. If you’re satisfied with the results, trim off any excess thread and give your pants one final press with an iron.

You

What You Will Need

To successfully taper pants with a sewing machine, you will need the following tools and materials:

  • A sewing machine
  • Sewing pins
  • Measuring tape
  • Fabric scissors
  • Sewing chalk or tailor’s pencil
  • Thread matching the color of your pants
  • A seam ripper (optional)

Make sure that your sewing machine is in good working condition and that you have the correct needle and thread for your fabric. It’s also helpful to have an iron and ironing board nearby for pressing seams as you work.

Preparing Your Pants

Before you can start tapering your pants, you’ll need to prepare them by removing any pockets or other embellishments that may interfere with the sewing process. Use a seam ripper to carefully remove any stitching holding these elements in place.

Next, take a measuring tape and measure the circumference of both pant legs at their widest point. Write down these measurements as they will be useful when adjusting the width of your pants later on.

Marking Your Changes

Using sewing pins, mark where you want to adjust the width of your pants. If you’re looking to make them narrower from top to bottom, pin along the seam on both sides of each leg. If you want to adjust the width from top only or bottom only, pin along one side of each leg.

Next, use a dressmaker’s chalk or tailor’s pencil to mark where you want your new seams to be. You can use a straight edge or ruler for this if necessary.

Sewing Your New Seams

Now it’s time to start sewing! Begin by removing all pins and laying your pants flat on a surface. Fold each pant leg in half, matching up the side seams. Pin along the marked lines and then sew your new seams using a straight or zigzag stitch. Make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam for added strength.

Once you have finished sewing, try on your pants to check the fit. If necessary, make any adjustments by re-pinning and re-sewing until you are satisfied with the fit.

Final Touches

To give your newly tapered pants a more professional look, iron the seams flat. This will also help set the stitches and reduce bulkiness.

If you want to further personalize your pants, you can add topstitching along the new seam lines. This will not only add a decorative element but also reinforce the seams.

Finally, trim any excess fabric from inside the pant legs and finish the raw edges with an overlock or zigzag stitch to prevent fraying.

Maintaining Your Pants

To keep your newly tapered pants looking their best, follow these tips:

  • Always wash them according to the care instructions on the label.
  • After washing, reshape them while they are still damp and lay flat to air dry.
  • If needed, press them with an iron on low heat.
  • Store them in a cool, dry place to avoid wrinkling.

Tapering pants with a sewing machine is a great way to give older or ill-fitting pants a new life. The process may seem daunting at first but with some practice and patience, you can create custom-fitted trousers that look like they were made just for you. Remember to take accurate measurements and mark your changes carefully for best results. With the right tools and technique, you can easily achieve a professional looking taper on your pants.

Q: What equipment do I need to taper pants with a sewing machine?

A: You will need a sewing machine, thread, a pair of scissors, pins, and an iron.

Q: Can I taper any type of pants with a sewing machine?

A: Yes, you can taper any type of pants as long as they are made from fabric and can be sewn.

Q: How do I determine the correct fit for tapered pants?

A: To determine the correct fit for tapered pants, it is important to take accurate measurements around the area you want to taper. You can also try on the pants and mark the desired width with pins before sewing.

Q: What stitch should I use for tapering?

A: The most commonly used stitch for tapering pants is a straight stitch. Alternatively, you can also use a zigzag stitch if you want to prevent fraying.

Q: How can I ensure that both legs of the pants are tapered evenly?

A: It is recommended to mark the desired width on both legs before stitching. Also, make sure to continually check and adjust the fabric as you sew to ensure even tapers on both sides.

Q: Do I need any special skills or experience to taper pants with a sewing machine?

A: Tapering pants with a sewing machine does require some basic sewing skills. However, with patience and practice, anyone can learn how to properly use a sewing machine and taper their own pants.

In conclusion, knowing how to taper pants with a sewing machine is a valuable skill that can help you achieve the perfect fit and style for your wardrobe. Whether you’re looking to update old pants or tailor new ones, the process of tapering pants can be easily accomplished with the right tools and techniques.

First and foremost, it is important to properly measure yourself or your client to determine the desired tapering measurements. This will ensure a well-fitted and comfortable end result. Additionally, having the appropriate tools such as fabric scissors, sewing pins, and an accurate sewing machine with a variety of stitch options is essential for achieving clean and precise lines.

The actual tapering process involves taking in the excess fabric from the inseam or outseam of the pants, gradually narrowing down towards the bottom hem. This can be accomplished through various techniques such as darts, side seams, or even using a serger for a professional finish.

As with any sewing project, practice makes perfect when it comes to tapering pants. It may take some trial and error to get comfortable with the process, but with patience and persistence, it can become a simple task. Remember to always work slowly and carefully to avoid any mistakes that may require undoing.

Aside from achieving a well-tailored look

Author Profile

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Jill Nammar
My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.