How to Make a Shirt Bigger

Learn how to make a shirt bigger by sewing fabric panels into each side seam. This is a great fix for shirts that are just a little tight.

This tutorial can be done with ready-to-wear shirts and matching or contrasting fabric. Thish technique works to make any shirt bigger!

What fabric should I use to make a shirt larger?

Make sure that the weight and the drape of the fabric, the way it feels in your hand and the way if falls off of your hand, is very similar to the weight and the drape of the shirt.

Supplies:

– Shirt that is just barely too small – 1/2 yard matching or contrasting fabric in a similar weight and drape – Ruler – Fabric scissors – Sewing machine

STEP 1

Cut both of the side seam allowances out of the shirt. Save the seam allowances.

STEP 2

Fold each short end over 1/2 inch. Fold the short end over another 1/2 inch. Press the folds in place. Sew all four hems in place.

STEP 3

Pin the panel into one side of the shirt through the sleeves with right sides together.

STEP 4

Sew both seams with a 3/8 inch seam allowance. Backstitch when you start and when you stop.

STEP 5

Pin and sew the other panel into the other side of the shirt. Finish the edges of the four seams with either a serger or a zigzag stitch.

STEP 6

Press the seam allowances towards the panel. Tack the seam allowance in place behind the hem.

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