How to Alter Scrub Tops to a Smaller Size
If you’ve found yourself with scrub tops that are a bit too large for your current figure, don’t worry – altering them to fit better is entirely possible. Whether you’re looking to save money or simply want to personalize your professional attire, learning how to alter scrub tops to a smaller size is a valuable skill. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process step by step, ensuring a perfect fit every time.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand. You’ll need a pair of scissors, a seam ripper, pins, a ruler, and a piece of chalk or a fabric marker. It’s also a good idea to have a needle and thread or a sewing machine ready if you need to make any additional adjustments.
Step 2: Determine the Area to Alter
Identify the areas where the scrub top is too large. Common problem areas include the sleeves, the hem, and the side seams. Take precise measurements to determine how much fabric needs to be removed from each area.
Step 3: Remove the Labels
Before you start cutting, remove any labels or tags from the fabric. This will prevent any damage to the labels and make the alteration process cleaner.
Step 4: Mark the Cutting Lines
Using your fabric marker or chalk, draw a straight line along the edge of the fabric where you want to make the cut. If you’re reducing the size of the sleeves, mark the line at the desired width. For the hem, draw a line parallel to the existing hem. If you’re altering the side seams, mark the line where you want the new seam to be.
Step 5: Cut the Fabric
Carefully cut along the marked lines with your scissors. If you’re making a straight cut, ensure the edges are even and smooth. If you’re altering curved areas, take your time to maintain a clean cut.
Step 6: Remove Excess Fabric
Use your seam ripper to remove any excess fabric that has been cut. This may involve undoing a few stitches or cutting away the fabric at the edges. Be sure to keep the cut edges as even as possible.
Step 7: Pin the Fabric
Once the excess fabric has been removed, pin the new edges in place. Make sure the pins are evenly spaced and that the fabric is aligned correctly.
Step 8: Sew the Edges
Using your needle and thread or sewing machine, sew the edges together. Be sure to reinforce any stress points, such as where the sleeves meet the body of the scrub top.
Step 9: Hem the Scrub Top
If you’ve altered the hem, fold the fabric over to create a new hem and sew it in place. Make sure the hem is even and falls at the desired length.
Step 10: Test the Fit
Finally, try on the scrub top to ensure it fits properly. If you notice any areas that still need adjusting, go back and make the necessary corrections.
By following these steps, you can successfully alter scrub tops to a smaller size, making your professional attire more comfortable and stylish. Remember that practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and alterations to find what works best for you.
