How to Alter an Alfred Dunner Blouse at the Shoulders

Are you the proud owner of an Alfred Dunner blouse that no longer fits quite right? Don’t despair! With a few simple alterations, you can transform your beloved blouse into a perfect fit. One of the most common areas for alteration in a blouse is the shoulders. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to alter an Alfred Dunner blouse at the shoulders, ensuring a comfortable and stylish fit.

First and foremost, gather all the necessary materials and tools before you begin. You will need a sewing machine, a pair of sharp scissors, pins, a ruler, and a fabric marker. Additionally, it’s essential to have a good understanding of your blouse’s fabric type and its properties, as this will influence the alteration process.

Before diving into the alteration, take a moment to assess the current fit of your blouse. If the shoulders are too tight, causing discomfort or an unflattering fit, it’s time to make some adjustments. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to alter an Alfred Dunner blouse at the shoulders:

1. Measure the current shoulder width of your blouse. Place the ruler along the shoulder seam, and measure the distance between the shoulder seam and the end of the sleeve. Note this measurement down for future reference.

2. Decide on the desired shoulder width. If you want to make the blouse fit more comfortably, add a few centimeters to the current measurement. If you want to narrow the shoulders, subtract a few centimeters.

3. Place your blouse on a flat surface and lay it out with the front facing up. Use the fabric marker to draw a straight line along the shoulder seam, from the top of the sleeve to the bottom of the blouse.

4. Cut along the marked line, being careful not to cut through the sleeve seam. This will create a new shoulder seam.

5. With the blouse still on the flat surface, use the ruler to measure the new shoulder width. Mark the measurement on the inside of the blouse, and then cut along the marked line, leaving a 1/4-inch seam allowance.

6. Remove the blouse from the flat surface and pin the new shoulder seam together, ensuring that the edges are aligned. Sew the new shoulder seam, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.

7. Trim any excess fabric from the new shoulder seam, and then press the seam open with an iron.

8. Finally, try on the blouse to ensure that the shoulders now fit comfortably. If necessary, make any further adjustments and repeat the process.

By following these steps, you should now have a perfectly fitting Alfred Dunner blouse with shoulders that are tailored to your comfort and style. Remember to take your time and be patient throughout the process, as a well-executed alteration can make all the difference in your wardrobe. Happy sewing!