How To Make A Sweater Bigger: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’ve ever bought a sweater that turned out to be too small, you know how frustrating that can be. Rather than tossing it or trying to squeeze into an ill-fitting sweater, why not make it bigger instead? Making a too-small sweater larger is easier than you might think.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: You can make a sweater bigger by blocking, stretching, or adding material like shoulder inserts. But for the best results, follow these steps:
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to successfully enlarge a sweater. You’ll learn blocking techniques to relax and stretch the yarn. We’ll discuss different seaming methods for adding material to the sides or underarms.
And we’ll provide tips on picking the right materials and patterns for alteration. With the right information and a bit of patience, you can rescue that beloved shrunken sweater and make it wearable again.
Assess the Sweater and Determine the Areas Needing Size Adjustment
When you want to make a sweater bigger, the first step is to assess the sweater and determine which areas need size adjustment. This will help you plan your alterations effectively.
Look at where it is too tight – arms, chest, length?
Take a close look at the sweater and identify the areas that feel too tight. It could be the arms, the chest, or the length. By pinpointing the specific problem areas, you can focus your efforts on making adjustments in those areas.
Check if the yarn has stretch and will relax
Before making any alterations, it’s important to check if the yarn used in the sweater has stretch and will relax when manipulated. Some yarns, especially those with natural fibers like wool, have the ability to stretch and bounce back into shape.
If the yarn has this characteristic, you may be able to increase the size of the sweater simply by gently stretching it.
Consider the sweater style and construction
The style and construction of the sweater can also play a role in determining how to make it bigger. For example, if the sweater has side seams, you may be able to undo the seams and add extra fabric to increase the size.
If the sweater is knit in the round, you might have to get creative with your alterations, such as adding extra stitches or incorporating gussets.
When assessing the sweater, it’s important to keep in mind that different materials and construction methods may require different approaches to make the sweater bigger. It’s always a good idea to consult resources and tutorials specific to the type of sweater you are working with.
For more information on assessing the fit of a sweater and determining the areas needing size adjustment, you can visit Martha Stewart’s website for expert advice and tips.
Block the Sweater to Relax the Fibers
One of the most effective ways to make a sweater bigger is to block it. Blocking involves reshaping and stretching the sweater to relax the fibers and achieve the desired size. Here are some methods to block different types of sweaters:
Wet block acrylic or wool sweaters
For acrylic or wool sweaters, wet blocking is a common technique. Start by filling a basin or sink with lukewarm water and adding a gentle detergent. Gently submerge the sweater in the water, making sure it is fully saturated.
Let it soak for about 15 to 20 minutes, then carefully remove the sweater and squeeze out excess water. Lay a clean towel on a flat surface and place the sweater on top. Gently stretch and shape the sweater to the desired size, making sure to maintain the proportions.
Pin the edges of the sweater to the towel to hold its shape. Leave it to air dry completely before removing the pins. This method helps relax the fibers and allows the sweater to stretch.
Steam block delicate fabrics like silk
For delicate fabrics like silk, wet blocking might not be suitable as it can damage the material. In such cases, steam blocking is a better option. Hang the sweater on a hanger and steam it with a garment steamer or a steam iron set on a low heat setting.
Keep the steamer or iron at a safe distance to avoid direct contact with the fabric. Gently tug and shape the sweater while steaming to achieve the desired size. The steam will help relax the fibers and make the sweater bigger. Be cautious while handling delicate fabrics to avoid any damage.
Allow to fully dry before wearing
After blocking, it is crucial to let the sweater fully dry before wearing it. This ensures that the fibers have relaxed and set in their new shape. Drying time may vary depending on the material of the sweater and the climate.
It is recommended to air dry the sweater by laying it flat on a clean towel or a drying rack. Avoid hanging the sweater while it is wet, as it may stretch out of shape. Once the sweater is completely dry, it is ready to be worn and enjoyed in its newly resized form.
Remember, blocking a sweater can be a time-consuming process, but it can make a significant difference in the fit and comfort of the garment. Always check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer before attempting any blocking methods, as some sweaters may require specific treatments.
Following these steps will help you make your sweater bigger and ensure a comfortable fit.
Stretch the Sweater Sections Needing More Room
When your favorite sweater feels a bit snug, there’s no need to give up on it just yet. With a few simple techniques, you can stretch the sections that need more room and make the sweater more comfortable to wear. Here are some effective methods to stretch different areas of your sweater:
For arms, put on a tee and tug fabric outward
If the sleeves of your sweater are too tight, a great way to stretch them is by wearing a long-sleeved tee underneath. Put on the tee and then put on the sweater. Once you have both layers on, gently tug the fabric of the sweater outward.
This will help to loosen the fibers and create more room for your arms. You can also try stretching the sleeves by placing your hands inside them and pulling gently in an outward motion. Be careful not to pull too hard and risk damaging the sweater.
For chest, insert a balloon or football
When your sweater feels tight around the chest area, you can use a simple trick to stretch it out. Inflate a balloon or a football to a size that fits snugly inside the sweater. Insert the inflated object into the sweater and gently stretch the fabric around it.
Leave it in for a few hours or overnight to allow the fibers to stretch. This method is particularly effective for wool or knit sweaters as they have more elasticity.
For length, anchor bottom and gently pull down
If your sweater is too short and you’d like to add some length, you can try stretching it downwards. Start by securing the bottom of the sweater to a sturdy anchor point, such as a doorknob or heavy piece of furniture. Gently pull down on the sweater, applying even pressure to stretch the fabric.
You can leave it in this stretched position for a few hours or overnight to allow the fibers to relax and elongate. Just be cautious not to pull too hard and risk damaging the sweater.
Remember, these stretching methods may not work for all types of sweaters or materials. It’s important to be gentle and cautious when stretching your sweater, as excessive force can cause damage. If you’re unsure about stretching a particular sweater, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional tailor or clothing expert for advice.
Add Material to Increase Size in Specific Areas
If you have a sweater that is too small in certain areas and you want to make it bigger, there are several techniques you can use to add material in specific areas. These methods will help you achieve the perfect fit without compromising the overall look of the sweater.
Insert fabric triangles at underarm seams
One way to increase the size of a sweater is to insert fabric triangles at the underarm seams. This technique works well if the sweater is too tight around the chest or underarm area. To do this, you will need matching fabric and a sewing machine.
Cut two fabric triangles and sew them into the underarm area, extending the width of the sweater. This will give you the extra room you need without altering the overall shape of the sweater.
Sew shoulder inserts for wider upper body
If the sweater is too tight around the shoulders or upper body, you can sew shoulder inserts to increase the width. This method is especially useful if the sweater fits well in other areas and you only need to add extra material to the upper body.
To do this, you will need matching fabric and basic sewing skills. Cut two fabric inserts and sew them into the shoulder seams, extending the width of the sweater. This will give you a more comfortable fit without altering the rest of the sweater.
Knit sections to lengthen body or sleeves
If your sweater is too short in the body or sleeves, you can knit sections to lengthen them. This method is great for adding extra length without having to completely unravel and re-knit the entire sweater.
Simply pick up stitches at the desired length and knit the additional sections using the same yarn and stitch pattern. This will seamlessly extend the body or sleeves of your sweater, giving you the perfect fit.
Remember, when making a sweater bigger, it’s important to consider the overall design and fit. These techniques will help you increase the size in specific areas without compromising the integrity of the sweater.
For more detailed instructions and helpful tips, you can visit websites like KnittingHelp.com or Seamwork.com that offer step-by-step guides and tutorials.
Finish Seams and Edges Professionally
When making a sweater bigger, it is important to finish the seams and edges professionally to ensure a polished and durable result. Here are some tips to help you achieve this:
Serge or zig-zag cut edges to prevent fraying
Before you start altering the size of your sweater, it is crucial to prevent the edges from fraying. One way to do this is by using a serger or a sewing machine with a zig-zag stitch. These techniques create a finished edge that will prevent the fabric from unraveling over time.
Use sturdy seams like mattress stitch for knits
When it comes to sewing seams in knitted garments, it is essential to choose a sturdy stitch that will withstand the stretching and movement of the fabric. One popular method is the mattress stitch, which creates an invisible seam that joins the pieces together seamlessly.
This stitch is particularly effective for knitting as it allows the fabric to retain its stretchiness.
Take care not to bulk up seam allowances
While finishing the seams, it is important to be mindful of the seam allowances. Bulkier seam allowances can create unnecessary bulk in the garment, making it look unflattering and uncomfortable. When altering the size of your sweater, try to trim down the seam allowances to reduce bulk and maintain a smooth and professional finish.
Remember, taking the time to finish the seams and edges properly will not only enhance the overall appearance of your sweater but also ensure its longevity. So, don’t rush this step and enjoy the process of making your sweater bigger!
Conclusion
With some patience and creativity, you can salvage that cherished but too-small sweater. Start by analyzing where size adjustment is needed and choosing the right techniques. Blocking, stretching, and sewing additions can all enlarge different areas.
Just be sure to add new material thoughtfully, finish seams securely, and allow time for the sweater to relax into its new shape. With the guidelines above, you’ll be able to rescue favorite sweaters from the donation pile and enjoy wearing them again in comfort.
