How to Alter a Pair of Shorts: Easy Sewing Project

I have a pair of structured shorts from the Gap. They are the perfect length, and I love that the color goes with so many of my tops and shoes. They are a bit too big around the waist/hips, so I've planned on altering them. This way, I get to be "green" since I am not tossing the shorts and they are getting a new life in my wardrobe. It's a win-win situation as far as I am concerned!

As you see in the picture, the shorts need to be taken in about 1.5 to 2 inches. I think I can take in just the center back seam and that will do the trick. Let's get started!

Try on your shorts and pin the fabric to see how much you need to take in. Mark the spots where you pinned them.

Once the shorts are marked, use a seam ripper to take off the belt loop, the top stitching for the waistband, and the labels.

Separate the waistband from the body of the shorts. I worked within the space between the side back belt loops.

Pin the back seam and the waistband section to match up.

• The back seam needs to match the stitching near the crotch area and take in the amount needed at the waist.
• It also needs to curve a little to fit the body shape.

I used a stretch stitch that also has a zigzag step that keeps the edge from fraying.

Once the center seam and waistband are taken in, reattach the waistband to the body of the shorts.

All that was left to do was to reattach the label, topstitch the waistband, and attach the belt loop. The shorts look and fit great!