Do you have a favorite skirt that you wish were a bit shorter? Maybe you found an amazing thrift store score, but it’s a bit too long for your taste. Or perhaps you had a change of heart about the hemline of a skirt you already own. Whatever the case, shortening a skirt without sewing is easier than you might think. In this article, we’ll show you six creative ways to make a skirt shorter without ever touching a needle and thread.
Knotting: The easiest and quickest way to shorten a skirt without sewing is to simply tie it up. First, put the skirt on and adjust it to the desired length, then gather the excess fabric at the side of the skirt and tie it in a knot, or several knots, depending on how much you need to shorten it.
You can make a knot at one or both sides, depending on your preference. Knotting works well on lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen and is perfect for casual, summery outfits.
Tip: If you want to speed up the knotting process, wrap the fabric around your leg and tie the knot while still on your leg. This way, you can see exactly how the finished product will look.
Rolling: Rolling the waistband of the skirt is another easy way to make the skirt shorter without sewing. Put the skirt on and fold the waistband over until it reaches the desired length. The excess fabric will then be bunched up around your waist, creating a cute and stylish look. Rolling works particularly well on elastic waistbands, but can be used with other types of waistbands as well.
Hem tape: If you want a more polished look, hem tape is a great option. This double-sided tape is specially designed for fabrics and can be used to hem your skirt without sewing. All you need to do is cut the hem tape to the desired length and adhere it to the inside of your skirt.
Then fold the fabric over and press down firmly to secure. Hem tape is a great option for skirts made of delicate or tricky materials, as it won’t damage the fabric like pins or needles.
Cutting: Cutting may sound drastic, but it can be a great way to transform a too-long skirt into a trendy mini-skirt. Start by putting the skirt on and marking the desired length with a washable or chalk marker. Then use sharp scissors to cut across the fabric, making sure to cut straight and even.
Cutting is best for skirts made of sturdy fabrics like denim or wool, and remember to leave a bit of extra length as you can always cut more off, but you can’t put it back on!
Tip: Be careful when cutting to avoid creating a jagged edge. You can either hem the skirt with hem tape or leave it unfinished for a raw, edgy look.
Tucking: Another creative way to shorten a skirt without sewing is by folding the excess fabric under and tucking it into the waistband. This works well on skirts with a lot of volume or if you’re looking for a more structured look. Start by putting the skirt on and adjusting it to the desired length. Then, fold the excess fabric under and tuck it into the waistband. You may need to use a belt or tuck the fabric in a bit more to keep it secure.
Adding a belt: If your skirt is still too long after trying some of these other methods, adding a belt can help. First, put the skirt on and adjust it to the desired length. Then, choose a thick or statement belt and wrap it around your waist. The belt will hold the excess fabric up, shortening the skirt and creating a chic and trendy look.
Conclusion:
Shortening a skirt without sewing may seem daunting, but with a little creativity and some simple hacks, it can be fun and easy. Whether you’re knotting, rolling, using hem tape, cutting, tucking, or adding a belt, there are so many ways to turn a too-long skirt into an outfit you’ll love. These methods work well on a variety of fabrics and styles, so go ahead and experiment. Who knows, you might have a new favorite way to style a mini-skirt!
FAQ
1. Can I use these methods to shorten any type of skirt?
Yes, these methods can be used on a variety of skirt types and fabrics. However, some methods may work better on certain fabrics than others. For example, knotting works well on lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen, while cutting is best for sturdy fabrics like denim or wool.
2. Will these methods damage my skirt?
No, these methods should not damage your skirt as long as they are done correctly. Hem tape is specifically designed for fabrics and won’t damage them, and knotting and rolling should not cause any harm. However, if you are cutting your skirt, be sure to use sharp scissors and cut carefully to avoid damaging the fabric.
3. How much can I shorten my skirt using these methods?
The amount you can shorten your skirt will depend on the length of the skirt and the amount of excess fabric you have to work with. Knotting or rolling can shorten a skirt by a few inches, while cutting can transform a long skirt into a mini-skirt. Tucking and adding a belt can also help to shorten a skirt slightly.
4. Can I still wear my skirt after shortening it with these methods?
Yes, you can still wear your skirt after shortening it with these methods. In fact, many of these methods can add a stylish touch to your outfit. However, keep in mind that some methods may be more suitable for casual or dressy occasions, so choose the method that best fits your outfit and the occasion.
5. Can I undo these methods if I change my mind?
Yes, most of these methods can be undone if you change your mind or want to wear your skirt at its original length again. Knotting and rolling can be easily untied or unfolded, and hem tape can be removed with a bit of effort. If you have cut your skirt, however, it may be more difficult to undo the change, so be sure you are certain before making any cuts.
