A Simple Alteration

As I mentioned in my Summer Prep post I have been strongly considering adding a short sleeve button front shirt to my summer wardrobe. As I was sifting through my closet my PRL madras fun shirt jumped out to me. I rarely ever wear this shirt and it has something to do with the sleeves. I hate the way they look unless they are rolled up and then it clicked, this shirt will be my first short sleeve button front shirt.

PRL Fun ShirtThe shirt to be altered.

My alteration skills are almost non-existent. My list of accomplishments consists of altering one surcingle belt. However, I knew that I could rely on the tutelage of my mom. Plus, this is a skill that will be very handy to have as it can be applied to hemming almost anything and it is always good to learn new things.

Me SewingConcentrating

The process was easier than I had imagined*. The most important thing to remember is to leave enough cloth to for the double-turn hem which is an additional 1 ½”. This formula does not take into consideration the extra material needed to add cuffs which may be part of my next on project.

*Remember, while I say it was easy my mom was there to answer any question and to help me operate the sewing machine which is still very foreign to me.

FabricConcentrating harder

I did make one error. While nervously sewing I attached the sleeves together. This mistake is directly correlated with my lack of foot control on the pedal. I think that I will get the hang of this with practice. For now I will just slow down.

MistakeI sewed the sleeves together, oops!

The shirt project went so fast that I got to tackle a second project. I brought a pair of chambray shorts along with me that are just too long. I took off 2 inches and I think that they look much better.

Before AlterationBefore (shirt has full length sleeves and short are longer)

After Alteration

After (removed half the sleeve, cut 2″ off the shorts, and added sunglasses in celebration of my accomplishment)

This was a really productive Sunday (Yep, I did all this today.). I crossed an item off my summer wish list (short sleeve shirt), checked an item off my summer chore list (hem shorts), and gained the confidence to try some more projects in the future. I also got to spend time with my family which is something that gets to be more fun the older that you get.

oxford cloth button down
Jerrod Swanton is a simple man interested in simple, classic, and traditional style.

5 Comments on "A Simple Alteration"

  1. Juli says:

    That’s a great way to “recycle” older shirts! I’ve recently gotten into stitching up my old Tshirts and making pocket Ts with them and after a few embarrassing outcomes I’m still getting the hang of it but it’s a lot of fun.

  2. LIn says:

    The shirt looks good and I am glad that you like hanging out with your family! (Mom)

  3. Flo says:

    Great job, definitely an improvement to both items!

  4. hardline_42 says:

    Nice job, Ox. It takes a little getting used to, but stick with it and sewing will become second nature. You’ll save a ton of money on alterations and get a lot more use out of the clothes you already have. Hope to see some more DIY tailoring from you.

  5. Woofboxer says:

    Good for you, being able to do small alterations and repairs is a great man-skill and I really must teach myself!

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