How To Make Arm Holes Smaller On A Tank Top

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Introduction:

Welcome to our guide on how to make armholes smaller on a tank top. Tank tops are a versatile and popular clothing item, but sometimes the armholes can be too large, making the fit less flattering or comfortable. Luckily, there are several methods you can use to adjust the armholes to your desired size.

Whether you’ve found the perfect tank top on sale but the armholes are too big, or you want to repurpose an old tank top that no longer fits well, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we will explore different techniques that will help you make the armholes smaller, ensuring a better fit and a more stylish look.

Before diving into the methods, it’s important to note that altering clothing requires some basic sewing skills. If you’re new to sewing or don’t feel confident in your abilities, it may be a good idea to practice on an old piece of fabric or seek assistance from a more experienced seamstress. Remember to take measurements and proceed with caution to achieve the desired results.

Now, let’s explore the different methods you can use to make armholes smaller on a tank top. Each method has its own benefits and considerations, so you can choose the one that suits you best. Whether you prefer a simple alteration or want to get creative with added details, there’s an option for everyone.

Understanding the Issue:

Before you start altering the armholes of a tank top, it’s important to understand the issue you’re facing. The main problem with oversized armholes is that they can reveal more than you’d like, resulting in a less-than-flattering fit. Additionally, large armholes can restrict your movement and make you feel self-conscious.

When the armholes are too big, they may expose your undergarments, bra straps, or even parts of your torso. This can be both uncomfortable and embarrassing, especially in professional or formal settings. Moreover, loose armholes can make the tank top slide off your shoulders, requiring constant adjustments throughout the day.

Understanding the issue of oversized armholes is essential in finding the right solution. By recognizing the specific problems you’re facing, you can choose the appropriate method to address them. It’s also important to keep in mind that the extent of alteration required will depend on the size of the armholes and your personal preferences.

Another factor to consider is the type of fabric your tank top is made of. Different fabrics can behave differently when altered, so it’s crucial to take this into account. For example, stretchy fabrics may require different techniques compared to woven fabrics.

Lastly, think about the style of the tank top you’re working with. Some tank tops have a more relaxed, flowy fit, while others are more fitted. Understanding the overall design and fit of the tank top will help you achieve a cohesive and professional-looking alteration.

By understanding the issues associated with oversized armholes and considering the fabric and style of your tank top, you’ll be better equipped to choose the appropriate method for making the armholes smaller. Now that we have a good grasp on the problem, let’s dive into the various methods for altering the armholes of a tank top.

Method 1: Altering the Side Seams

One of the simplest ways to make the armholes smaller on a tank top is by altering the side seams. This method is ideal for tank tops made of non-stretchy fabrics or those with minimal design details.

To begin, put on the tank top and determine how much you want to reduce the armhole size. Mark the new armhole shape with pins or tailor’s chalk. Keep in mind that you should reduce the size evenly on both sides to maintain symmetry.

Next, carefully remove the tank top and lay it flat on a work surface. Locate the side seams and, using a seam ripper, carefully undo the stitching along the armhole portion of the side seams. Be sure to only undo the necessary stitches and leave the bottom hem and other sections intact.

Once the side seams are undone, fold over the excess fabric toward the inside of the tank top, aligning it with your marked armhole shape. Pin or baste the folded fabric to secure it in place. Then, try the tank top on again to check for fit and make any necessary adjustments.

If the fit looks good, you can proceed to sew the new armhole shape. You can either use a sewing machine or hand-stitch the folded fabric along the new armhole shape. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the stitching.

Once the new armhole shape is sewn, trim any excess fabric and neaten the edges by either serging or using a zigzag stitch. By altering the side seams, you have successfully made the armholes smaller on your tank top.

This method provides a straightforward solution for adjusting the armhole size, especially for tank tops without many design details. However, keep in mind that altering the side seams may slightly change the overall fit of the tank top. It’s always a good idea to try on the altered garment again before making any final adjustments.

Method 2: Adding Darts

If you have a tank top with a bit more structure or one made of a non-stretchy fabric, adding darts can be an effective method for making the armholes smaller. Darts are triangular folds of fabric that are sewn in to create shape and reduce excess fabric.

To begin, put on the tank top and locate the areas on the armholes where you want to decrease the size. Using pins or tailor’s chalk, mark the placement of the darts on both sides of the tank top. Ensure that the darts are symmetrical for a balanced look.

Take off the tank top and lay it flat on a work surface with the inside facing up. Start by measuring and marking the center of each dart. From there, draw the dart lines towards the marked points on the armholes. The lines should be widest at the armhole and taper towards the center mark.

Next, fold the fabric along the dart lines, aligning the lines so that they meet. Pin or baste the dart fabric together, ensuring that the armhole fabric is smooth and free from any puckering. Try on the tank top again to check for fit and make any necessary adjustments.

Once you’re satisfied with the fit, sew along the marked dart lines. You can use a sewing machine or hand-stitch the darts, starting from the widest part of the dart and tapering towards the center mark. Remember to backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the stitching.

After sewing the darts, trim any excess fabric and neaten the edges with a serger or zigzag stitch. Repeat the process on the opposite side of the tank top to maintain symmetry.

Adding darts is a great technique for making armholes smaller on structured tank tops or those made of non-stretchy fabrics. This method allows for precise adjustments and maintains the overall shape of the garment. With the added darts, you can achieve a more tailored and fitted look to your tank top.

Method 3: Using Seam Binding

If you prefer a no-sew method or want to add a decorative element to your tank top while making the armholes smaller, using seam binding can be a great option. Seam binding is a strip of fabric or ribbon that is used to encase raw edges and provide a clean and finished look.

To start, gather the necessary materials: seam binding, fabric glue or fusible tape, and a hot iron. Choose a seam binding that matches or complements the color and style of your tank top.

Put on the tank top and determine how much you want to reduce the armhole size. Mark the new armhole shape with pins or tailor’s chalk, ensuring symmetry on both sides.

Carefully remove the tank top and lay it flat on a work surface with the inside facing up. Measure and cut the seam binding to match the length of the armhole, adding a bit of extra length for overlap.

Apply fabric glue or fusible tape along the raw edge of the armhole, being careful not to use too much glue or tape. Place the seam binding on top of the glue or tape, aligning the edge of the binding with the edge of the armhole.

If you’re using fabric glue, let the glue dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re using fusible tape, cover the seam binding with a thin cloth or pressing cloth and press with a hot iron, following the instructions for the specific tape you’re using.

Repeat the process for the opposite armhole to maintain symmetry.

The use of seam binding not only reduces the armhole size but also adds a decorative touch to your tank top. It creates a clean and finished edge, preventing any fraying or unraveling of the fabric. This method is particularly suitable for tank tops made of delicate fabrics or those with intricate designs.

With the help of seam binding, you can easily make the armholes smaller on your tank top without the need for sewing. This technique allows you to achieve a polished and professional look, even if you don’t have advanced sewing skills.

Method 4: Inserting Gussets

If you’re looking for a more advanced and creative solution to make the armholes smaller on a tank top, inserting gussets can be an excellent option. Gussets are triangular or diamond-shaped fabric pieces that are inserted to add extra width or volume to a garment.

To get started, put on the tank top and determine how much you want to reduce the armhole size. Mark the new armhole shape with pins or tailor’s chalk, ensuring symmetry on both sides.

Carefully remove the tank top and lay it flat on a work surface with the inside facing up. Measure and mark the placement for the gussets on the armholes. The gussets should be placed towards the underarm area, where the armhole needs to be smaller.

Next, cut out the gussets from matching fabric. The size of the gusset will depend on the extent to which you need to reduce the armhole size. Ensure that the gussets are symmetrical and mirror each other.

Align one side of the gusset with the armhole, matching up the raw edges. Pin or baste the gusset in place, ensuring that it follows the marked armhole shape. Repeat the process for the other gusset on the opposite armhole.

Once the gussets are pinned or basted, sew along the edges, attaching the gussets to the armholes. You can either use a sewing machine or hand-stitch the gussets, making sure to backstitch at the beginning and end for a secure hold.

After sewing, trim any excess fabric from the gussets, allowing for a clean and neat finish. You may also choose to serge or zigzag the edges for added durability.

Inserting gussets is a more advanced method for making the armholes smaller and offers a unique design element to your tank top. It can add a touch of creativity and elevate the overall look of the garment. Consider using contrasting fabric or a print to make the gussets a statement feature on the tank top.

This method is particularly suitable for individuals who are confident in their sewing skills and want to experiment with different design elements. By inserting gussets, you can achieve a tailored and customized look while making the armholes smaller on your tank top.

Conclusion

Altering the armholes of a tank top to make them smaller can transform the fit and overall look of the garment. Whether you’re dealing with oversized armholes that reveal more than you’d like or simply want a more tailored and comfortable fit, there are several methods you can use to achieve your desired results.

In this guide, we explored four different methods for making the armholes smaller on a tank top. Altering the side seams provides a simple solution, while adding darts allows for more precise adjustments. Using seam binding offers a no-sew option and adds a decorative touch, while inserting gussets provides a more advanced and creative solution.

Before you begin any alteration, it’s important to understand the specific issues you’re facing and consider factors such as fabric type, style, and personal preferences. Taking accurate measurements and making test adjustments can help ensure a successful outcome.

Remember, while these methods can help improve the fit of your tank top, they require basic sewing skills and attention to detail. If you’re not confident in your sewing abilities, consider practicing on scrap fabric or seeking assistance from a professional tailor or seamstress.

By embracing these armhole-altering techniques, you can transform your tank tops into perfectly fitted and stylish garments. Whether you want to revamp an old favorite or elevate a new purchase, these methods allow you to customize and achieve a more flattering and comfortable fit.

So, unleash your creativity and take control of your tank tops by making the armholes smaller. With the right techniques, you can achieve a seamless and professional look that will leave you feeling confident and stylish.

Now it’s time to gather your supplies, choose your preferred method, and get ready to create tank tops that fit you perfectly!