Pants Waist Alterations by Machine

Pants Waist Alterations by Machine

Pants waist alterations are another common task in costuming. If costume pants are too large in the waist, you can easily alter them by machine. Menswear makers usually design men’s pants with a center back seam in the waistband. The reason for this construction is to...
Costuming Tools

Costuming Tools

Cover Photo by Susan Holt Simpson on Unsplash When costuming, or doing any kind of sewing for that matter, I use many tools. I thought I’d share my 3 favorite costuming tools here. 1. Seam Ripper To alter existing costumes, you will likely need to remove many seams....
Jacket Alterations – Suit Jackets

Jacket Alterations – Suit Jackets

Suit jacket alterations are a bit tedious but definitely doable. If the body of a costume suit jacket is too large for the actor, it can be altered through the center back seam. The suit jacket in this picture (purchased at Goodwill for $8) was several sizes too large...
Jacket Sleeve Alterations

Jacket Sleeve Alterations

Photo by Salvador Godoy on Unsplash Suit jacket sleeves can be altered to be shorter, and sometimes up to an inch longer, depending on the existing hem. If there are buttons on the sleeve placket, remove them. Rip out seam that attaches lining to jacket fabric at...
Vest Alterations

Vest Alterations

Cover Photo by christian erra on Unsplash Vest alterations are easy if a vest is too large. They can be altered in two ways, depending on how much too large the vest is. Alter using the existing belt Many men’s vests, especially those that were originally...
Break-Away Dress – Chicago

Break-Away Dress – Chicago

In the show “Chicago”, Mary Sunshine is a really fun character. “She” is a conservative church-y lady with an operatic voice. The twist is that this role is traditionally played by a male actor. The show includes a scene where Ms. Sunshine’s dress breaks away and...