To shorten a dress pattern, you typically use designated lines on the pattern piece, often marked "lengthen or shorten here."
Sewing patterns often include specific instructions and lines to help you adjust the length of a garment before cutting the fabric. When you need to make a dress shorter, you will work within these marked areas on the pattern piece.
Steps to Shorten a Dress Pattern
Based on standard pattern adjustment techniques, which involve using the provided lengthen or shorten lines, here's how it's done:
- Locate the Adjustments Line: Find the horizontal lines on your pattern piece designated for lengthening or shortening. These are usually marked clearly, sometimes with a double line and text like "Lengthen or Shorten Here."
- Draw a Guide Line (Optional but Helpful): Some methods suggest drawing a horizontal guide line at the desired finished length or a specific measurement point above the original hem.
- Cut the Pattern: Cut along the lower lengthen or shorten here line. This divides the pattern piece into two main sections: the upper part and the lower part (including the hem).
- Overlap to Shorten: To shorten, you will overlap the lower part of the pattern over the upper part. Move the lower pattern piece straight up until you have reduced the length by the desired amount.
- Align and Secure: Ensure the cut edges you overlapped are parallel and that the side seams or other vertical lines align correctly. Align the lengthen or shortened heel line (if applicable) meets the line you drew in the previous step (or the desired length point). Secure the overlapped pieces with tape.
- Redraw Side Seams: The act of overlapping creates a step in the side seams. You will need to redraw smooth, straight lines connecting the side seams above and below the adjustment point.
- Adjust Other Pieces (if necessary): If you are shortening a skirt that attaches to a bodice, you might also need to adjust the bodice length or waistband position slightly, although typically length adjustments on the skirt piece itself are sufficient for overall dress length.
Here is a simplified look at the action described in the reference:
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Cut | Along the lower "lengthen or shorten here" line. |
| Move Pattern Piece | Lower piece straight up. |
| Align | Where the lower piece (e.g., "shortened heel line") meets the desired new length line. |
By following these steps, you adjust the pattern piece to your desired shorter length before cutting your fabric, ensuring the proportions of the dress are maintained as intended by the designer at the adjustment point.
