How to Alter Size 38 Jeans Down to Size 34
When you find a pair of jeans that you absolutely love but they just don’t fit quite right, altering them to fit better can be a great solution. If you’re looking to take your size 38 jeans down to a more comfortable size 34, follow these steps to achieve a perfect fit.
1. Gather Your Materials
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials. You’ll need a pair of size 38 jeans, a pair of size 34 jeans as a reference, a pair of fabric scissors, pins, a seam ripper, and a needle and thread.
2. Measure and Mark
Start by measuring the waist and hip of your size 38 jeans. Then, measure the same areas on your size 34 jeans. Use these measurements to mark the areas where you need to take in the jeans. For the waist, mark the sides where the waistband is, and for the hips, mark the sides where the seams meet the back pockets.
3. Remove the Zipper and Buttons
If your jeans have a zipper and buttons, remove them to make it easier to work on the fabric. Take off the buttons and use the seam ripper to carefully remove the zipper from the waistband.
4. Cut the Jeans
Using fabric scissors, carefully cut along the marked lines you made in step 2. Make sure to leave a small seam allowance to account for the finished size. For the waist, cut the fabric between the two marks on each side. For the hips, cut the fabric along the marked line where the seams meet the back pockets.
5. Take In the Waist
Fold the cut edges of the waistband inward, pin them in place, and sew them together using a straight stitch. This will create a narrower waistband. Repeat this process on both sides of the jeans.
6. Take In the Hips
For the hips, take out the excess fabric by cutting a diagonal line from the marked hip line to the seam. Then, pin the cut edges together, fold them inward, and sew them using a zigzag stitch to create a more comfortable fit.
7. Reattach the Zipper and Buttons
Once the waist and hips are taken in, reattach the zipper and buttons to the waistband. Make sure they are aligned correctly and secure them in place.
8. Hem the Jeans
If necessary, hem the jeans to your desired length. Use the same technique you used to take in the waist and hips, folding the hem inward and sewing it in place.
9. Try on the Jeans
Put on your newly altered jeans and make any final adjustments if needed. Make sure the waist is snug but not too tight, and the hips are comfortable without being too loose.
By following these steps, you can successfully alter your size 38 jeans down to size 34. With a little bit of patience and attention to detail, you’ll have a pair of jeans that fit you perfectly.
