5 Alteration Hacks That Will Make Your Sewing Life Easier!

[@girlnextdoorgrooming]

"THAT will make your life easier so you'll always think about me. " 💖

[@pl5735]

That was so sweet! 😊💕

[@jeannie7469]

i will!

[@LisaLisa001]

That's the part where I Liked and Subscribed ♥️

[@-JJF-]

came here to check who else thought this everytime they sit at their machine! 😊

[@savannahmccamey9356]

Was going to make the same comment 😆😍

[@Angela-jy8um]

You said "That would not be a hack, that would be a job.." that made me smile. Great video! Thanks for sharing!

[@DowntownTailoring]

🥰🥰🥰

[@amandapowell7593]

Girl. GIRL. I screamed at the pocket tip XD You just saved me an incredible amount of time! and I 100% will think of you every time I sew jeans. The button is clutch! These are the kind of things that separate the professionals from the rest of us faux-pros.

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thank you so much Amanda!! Love your energy so much, I wish you the best!

[@ruthbell6786]

l

[@E42545]

I came here a year late to this video to comment this EXACT thing. Literally shouted out loud at the screen- this is the single most common sense but never heard it anywhere else tip that I’ve ever gotten in 20 years of sewing 😭😭😂

[@SaneLiesbuster]

​@DowntownTailoring

[@SaneLiesbuster]

​@DowntownTailoring

[@hambagashle9017]

Sewing around the pocket technique has made me question my sewing abilities . So simple yet so effective. Love it.

[@DowntownTailoring]

I feel you! I couldn't believe it myself the first time I sew it. 🤯 Cheers! 🙂

[@tatianamedvedeva1289]

This tip with the pockets is mindblowing. Absolutely love it!

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks so much Tatiana!!

[@xyzsame4081]

@@DowntownTailoring Hi great tips, obviously coming from a lot of experience. I did not get the hem though (it was not part of the tutorial). The full circle silk skirt.

[@xyzsame4081]

@@DowntownTailoring One thing that I know from midi lenght wide skirts - if a woman has very wide hips and and / or an ample backside that can also influence the hem lenght (even with a material w/o stretch). Maybe not with a full skirt there should be enough material to smooth over the bdy parts ;) . I know the drill of having an appointment for fitting (when the garment is sewn from scratch) and then the seamstress would use her gadget to get the right length (a botte with chalk dust that is on a stativ and she puffed the line on).

[@lindasummer2343]

@@xyzsame4081 If I’m reading your comment correctly, I think the reason why she didn’t go into explaining the rolled hem is because she has explained it in a couple of other videos. It is worth looking on her channel for rolled hems for an explanation of how she does them.

[@theladyinblack3055]

@@xyzsame4081 OMG!! My Mum used one of those when I was little! I probably haven’t seen one in forty years though - I took a break from sewing between when I left home and when I had kids. Do they still make those? I’ve looked but can’t find one, Mum’s has disappeared (I think my sister may have thrown it out while we were getting ready to sell our parents’ home - Mum had dementia and they’d moved to a retirement home - as she doesn’t see…), and I’d love to be able to hem without calling on my BFF to help me get the hem right. With one of those, it would be simple enough that my husband could do it!

[@floatinglotuswomenswellness]

I have a client I know is going to be the beneficiary of the pocket solution next week! This is something I'd never come across in over 60 years of sewing... fantastic!

[@DowntownTailoring]

I'm so glad this might be helpful! 😊

[@mazola5]

I love your tips. But most of all, I love hearing you talk. You are adorable.

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks so much for your comment 😊

[@DebbieUnderfinger]

I agree!

[@knittysong]

Same, the voice is so soothing and she is funny!

[@Sweetnlow19811]

Great tips! The small gather is called an ease stitch. You make a piece of fabric slightly smaller to fit another piece by easing it with a very small gather 😊

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks 😊

[@dragonchild569]

agreed. it's often used to set in sleeves as well. you "ease" them into the armscye when the cap is very slightly larger or sometimes even when they are the same but the fabric is stiff or otherwise difficult to deal with. you don't actually see any gather but by doing the basting and small gather, it makes it much easier to fit the cap into the armscye.

[@pamz7531]

Boy! Did I learn a lot from you today. I’m been sewing for over 60 years, and I’m still learning. Thank you.

[@DowntownTailoring]

Ou thank you! I’ve also been sewing for a long time and it’s crazy how you never stop learning in this field!

[@mozu517]

Same here!

[@jacquelinerhoden4428]

You never stops learning once you are still alive

[@carolyndymond5521]

Yes so am I, never realised things could be so simple , I'm forever unpicking and going the long way round.

[@notconvincedgranny6573]

Amen!

[@MondesThreads]

The crotch adjustment was amazing. I usually stay away from those. I will definitely practice it

[@kimvivian9916]

The term is Ease (ease stitch) is a tiny gathering amount spread out over a long distance that barely takes the fabric into a smaller run. Great tips here. You go girl!

[@xmobile.]

10:00 I'm unfamiliar with the spanish word, but I thought maybe she meant other words for the gathering, or the ruffles... in which case i was thinking to describe the gathered fabric as "puckered."

[@peggyp46]

I agree with the terms Ease. I wanted to check the comments before I commented about easing the fabric. Great information on this video!

[@andreab4386]

Pocket trick is legit a HUGE time saver!

[@katrinamenio3230]

Love the tip about using a button when sewing jeans, that's a great tip

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thank you very much! It’s very helpful!

[@jbpsap898]

Yes. That’s so awesome!!! I was going to buy a hump jumper I saw on other KZbinr. I’m a beginner and want your advice on thread recommended for jeans please.

[@456inthemix]

My professional tailor doesn't know the trick either.

[@afriendcalled5]

Lady, you had me at the first trick! The button when approaching a thick seam... brilliant.

[@DowntownTailoring]

Hahaha thank you!!

[@carolnorton2551]

I have been doing alterations for 50 years and still I learned a lot from you, Thank you !

[@DowntownTailoring]

You are so nice! Thanks so much for your comment 😊

[@pkirkey6932]

The side seam alteration without disturbing the pocket is my favourite.

[@minerva5025]

Hi there, you just blew me away with that pocket trick, so wonderful as always you are the greatest.

[@DowntownTailoring]

Wow thank you so much Minerva, I really appreciate it!

[@mssixty3426]

Same here! Awesome pocket hack, thank you🤗😊

[@AliMarie022]

I have been sewing alterations for like 15 years- this trick is mind blowing haha im amazed!

[@judithstuart9631]

The button! The pocket! Thank you

[@maryb.c.507]

That hocus-pocus with the stretch pants was amazing, especially how you diagnosed and pinned and marked it on the owner. Whew!

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thank you so much Mary, I’m so flattered!

[@judyblackman-callender2629]

@@DowntownTailoring Can you kindly tell us your name, please mama?😘🇹🇹💕

[@judyblackman-callender2629]

Oh, I asked your name again. Sorry I didn't see your reply Aida. Thanks much. Happy tutoring, and may your hands be blessed always. Lots of love from 😍🇹🇹💕

[@lawandalamar9759]

That crotch fix was awesome, but I didn't understand how you arrived at the measurements...gonna keep reviewing it until it makes sense to me. Thanks.

[@vivianhamilton616]

that pocket tip was " jaw-dropping" for me! thank you, THANK YOU!

[@cindylevans6162]

The pockets! You made me understand why my save-the-pocket attempts didn't lay flat but puckered. Big Thank you for all the tips :-).

[@KiyomiY]

Love the button tip for sewing jeans. What an adorable top! And with pockets! Wish I was skilled enough to make that.

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thank you 🥰

[@judyblackman-callender2629]

Kyomi Yim, yes! I love the blouse. Nice. I might just try making one like that in the near future. Lol. 😀😀😍🇹🇹

[@Yvonne8484]

I can not thank you enough for the button tip too. I LOVE IT

[@womensarmycorpsveteran2904]

Great advice for hemming jeans however there is a 2-sided tool called a “hump jumper”. I was taught the same as you regarding bias cut garments. The word you are looking for in the 3rd garment is “ease” you pull up the stitches to ease in the extra fabric just like set-in sleeves that are smooth without ruffling. I’m not trying to be a smart arse, I am a professional seamstress who has been sewing for 59 years😁 I think you’re doing a great job.

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks so much 🥰 Your comment is appreciated!

[@suejames3208]

I was going to say the same thing, it's easing.

[@socorromedrano7399]

Yes, you ease it in! = embeber

[@yolandamcclellan643]

Thank you for your help and information!

[@undergrace_6.14]

@@socorromedrano7399 Alteration hacks and Spanish lessons ❤️

[@chanaberger6776]

I think the word you are looking for is “easing “ , you want to ease the fabric. It’s the same you do to fit the sleeves into the armhole.

[@DowntownTailoring]

Yesssss! I'm so glad for your help, guys. I was looking for it for years 😊

[@girlnextdoorgrooming]

Time stamp?

[@QueAwkwardNoises]

@@girlnextdoorgrooming 10:24 and the entire process before that as well

[@vequihellin]

I was thinking 'Ruching' was a similar word too

[@littledevildee]

Easing is it. Ruching is similar but it is considered a decorative stitch so it not the same as easing. I love her videos!

[@zulis48]

Thanks for reminding the importance of the crotch curves! Such a big difference for a small alteration 💕

[@teresab1584]

I love the tip for the pockets. I'm just learning to sew and made a dress too big. I dreaded taking it all apart to move the pockets. Muchas gracias! 🙏🏾

[@DowntownTailoring]

A las órdenes!

[@solarwinds-]

That little white dress, that was SO CLEVER! I'll bet she wore that proudly that night as she went out on the town.

[@lenore_nvrmore3317]

I loved the little question bit at the end….and your exasperated tone. I get it. I love your videos. You are a great educator. I would love to just sweep the floors at your shop for free just so i could soak up all of that knowledge. (I am sorta kidding hehehe 😜) u R just So impressive.

[@DowntownTailoring]

Hahahaha! I love to share what I can, we are all a community here! Thank you so much!

[@IMOO1896]

I’ve thought the same thing!

[@MarLoBellaTV]

@@DowntownTailoring Thanks for the hacks I loved them... especially the button hack OMG the time and needles this could have saved me had I known b4 🤷🏾‍♂️.. and you're so funny... LOVED the ending 😆🤣 Much appreciation

[@DowntownTailoring]

@@MarLoBellaTV Thank you so much!!

[@Freeyourself206]

DAMN, what a boss. “You will always think about me” wow!!!! That sealed the deal and I will definitely think about you when i do that

[@DowntownTailoring]

🥰🥰🥰

[@ReginaPagles]

You are a genius and a pleasure to listen to and learn from. Thank you for being so generous with your talent. Much appreciation and respect. My best to you!

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks so much 🥰

[@blaqueathena]

That trick with the jeans is amazing. I would have never thought of that.

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thank you so much!

[@debm6507]

OH MY GOSH!!! I am so excited about the way you took in the side of the top with the inside pocket! I have always told my client that it's much too time consuming for my to do. This is brilliant, and I can't believe I have never figured it out! LOL!

[@DowntownTailoring]

That’s exactly how I felt the first time I discovered this possibility!!!!!

[@angelikahacksterzinger3160]

The button trick is great! Thank you! Your way of talking is very nice

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks so much 🥰

[@shauntrisa]

I absolutely LOVE you! It always makes my day to watch your videos. I always learn something and your voice is so calming! Quote of the day “That would be a job…” 🤣🤣🤣 I could sense the eye roll and disdain for that job.

[@DowntownTailoring]

Hahaha you sensed it right! Thank you so much for your kind words!

[@cathy3392]

I really liked the Jean hem trick. Using a button is just genius

[@DowntownTailoring]

🥰🥰🥰

[@mommahippie4483]

OMG!! The pocket hack! Amazing, I had no idea to do that!! 😍

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thank you! It just feels like “why haven’t I thought of that before?” You know?

[@sandrashort1221]

I have 60 years experience sewing and am a professional costumer. Alteration skills are important. I worked this winter tuning my crotch adjustment skills and had one problem that your demonstration has cleared up for me. Thank you, now off to my machine to practice.

[@DowntownTailoring]

I'm so glad! Happy sewing! 😊

[@sheilaholter4489]

The pocket hack!!! There are so many times I could have used that! Thank you!

[@monaasselin2371]

The button lifting the foot ! Bravo ! Also the trick with the side pocket ! Thank you for your videos ! Very much appreciated ! Mona seamstress from Canada , Quebec

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks! We are closed. I'm in Ottawa 🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦

[@JD-vo3oe]

Found your site to fix some ripped jeans at the knee and stayed for more fun tips. Love love love your energy and enthusiasm for your art.

[@BonesAndButtons]

👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 The tip about the pockets is golden!👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks 😊😊😊

[@hummerklein4902]

Wow you just brought back to me so many things from when I was a little girl I’m now 73 . My aunt was a seamstress and taught me everything about sewing I’ve forgotten lots and you just did it sweetie Thank you for sharing this with me God bless everything you touch.

[@DowntownTailoring]

I'm so glad 🥰 These cherished memories are everything 💓 💕 💖

[@raydodson6675]

I LOVE the button idea for the thick part of hemming jeans! Hooray!

[@DowntownTailoring]

🥰🥰🥰

[@dreamingrightnow1174]

I've sewn on a very basic level for years, but no lately, so when I saw you posted some tips I was interested to learn. I'm only 4 minutes into the video and didn't know ANY of these tricks. The jean trick with the button is so smart. Thank you. 👗

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks for watching 😊

[@zaidapage7045]

At last someone who makes sense of what I don't understand . Thank you !

[@DowntownTailoring]

🥰🥰🥰

[@erinaceus]

Thank you for sharing all of your knowledge with us - I love these tips, they give me a different way of thinking about how to solve problems. You are a terrific teacher!

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks so much. I'm so glad 🥰🥰🥰

[@lorettabowman2159]

I never would have thought about the button trick. I always have a hard time with the thick part of the hem on jeans. Thanks for the information.

[@DowntownTailoring]

My pleasure 🥰

[@alexaelliott2598]

I loved the pocket tip when taking in side seams and the crotch adjustment was explained so very clearly.. I finally understood it. I made some woven pants with the same ugly bulky front. I asked many people where did I need to adjust my pattern but no one really knew. Now I can easily fix it myself. Thanks for the clear demonstration how to adjust the crotch curve.

[@flowerchild777]

You are correct; I will always think about you when sewing jeans and using buttons💖

[@DowntownTailoring]

🥰🥰🥰

[@sylkebambilke1364]

dear Lady, I was a seamstress once and sew everything, but even for me the knob trick is new, thank you! very helpful

[@eccomiatsf3676]

Your button trick can be done with any fabric that is thick. You're very clever. People don't want to pay for your labor, skill and knowlege so I appreciate your tricks.

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thank you 🥰

[@MsDamosmum]

Thank you. I’ve been doing alterations for the last 13 years but you did just show me things that I hadn’t thought of and I like your sense of humour too 😁👍

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks so much. That's right everyone has a different approach. I love to learn from my colleagues. 🤗

[@tracybrewer9640]

And this is why I leave these things to someone that knows what they are doing. Great video. I've just subscribed

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks 😊 Welcome to our sewing community!

[@rhondaholman9628]

Wished I had found you you when I did alterations. Had to figure all this stuff out on my own. Great job!

[@katlane8041]

I am almost 42 and have been sewing and have been sewing since the age of 10-12. Iv needed these hacks. Where have you been all my life. Genius 🤓

[@DowntownTailoring]

You are so kind 💕 Thanks!

[@KS-hz1ik]

love the button tip, very helpful for sewing many layers together.

[@julialewis8794]

That button hack for the jeans is amazing!

[@surferbabe1010]

This may sound cheesy but to see and feel the love you put into your artistry and work brings me so much joy and hope. You are empowering people to be able to care for the things we already have and hopefully cut down on the fast fashion that’s contributing to the devastating effects of global warming. Thank you for making this beautiful educational sewing video and looking forward to your next one! Xx

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks so much for your comment 😊 I have the same hope as you 😊 ☺ ❤

[@jessicahouse5744]

That pocket trick is a life saver!

[@jand7782]

The process for correcting the pants front was very eye-opening (understanding the "U").

[@bbrosser694]

Wow! Loved the Button, the Pocket, the Bias Hem, the Neckline, and other Hacks!

[@miracle.edits.lyngdoh]

I always use to struggle with sewing hems in jeans. Love your trick! 😊

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thank you 🥰

[@marylouhober-tupper3419]

I've sewn for 55 years now, the button hack ....AWESOME! I love the pocket hack too!!

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks so much 🥰

[@katzwhite5962]

Thank you for your video. I'm small, petite. I'm always altering clothes for myself. I need to alter a fashionable top made from Jersey material that gapes at the front. I really liked the button trick, the dress with the pocket and the top of the dress where you removed the baggy area. Would be too scared to attempt the final adjustment, amazing as it was. Brillant video.

[@marthab3364]

Save the pockets while saving time ... yes, please. I'm always a fan of working smarter, not harder. Plus, it makes them a little deeper. Kudos!

[@DowntownTailoring]

🥰🥰🥰

[@ouch2007]

Thanks, I love that alteration trick with the pockets! I need that one right now, it’s going to save me a ton of time.

[@sharonnadzan2127]

I loved the button trick for sewing jeans, but my favorite was the pocket tip. How clever!

[@DowntownTailoring]

🥰🥰🥰

[@gayneels5169]

Thanks for your hacks! The jeans hem with button is amazing! Also love the pocket hack!

[@arianegravenor7453]

To gather a little to adjust: to "ease". Great tips, thanks!

[@charlenemcgill2961]

I really liked all of the hacks. Thanks for sharing !!!

[@angelinaklineburgess5286]

The word needed in English is ease. We ease the seam to fit the new lining size. Great video !

[@sherryhearington9027]

I really needed to know the trick for hemming jeans! That's fantastic! Also loved the alteration on the blouse with the pockets. Yes you were talking about "easing the fabric" on the neckline of the dress.

[@mmmstitch]

The button tip is BRILLIANT!! Thank you!

[@doloresw]

See I wish now that I had learn to sew when my mother wanted to teach me when I was a preteen. This is priceless knowledge. The button trick is like awesome. What book has that likely none. I also like the dress where you have opened it and fixed the loss front. So thank you for your videos and expertise !

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thank you so much Dolores! I’m really happy to share the tricks I’ve picked up over the years! Cheers 🥰

[@doloresw]

@@DowntownTailoring your welcome you are giving excellent information 👍

[@wandaparker6183]

The hack with the button, splendid. I'm subscribing

[@leticiabyrne2271]

I love LOVE your videos!! Always learn something new, especially for being self taught, only looking over moms shoulder. Thanks to this video, now I know I am taking in the inseam on my pants correctly but with CONFIDENCE!! Thank again for your videos. They are easy to follow

[@traceye.6428]

Oh, and the pocket hack, oh my gosh!!!! Thank you!

[@lindamoodley231]

I'm a beginner and was feeling like this was all so complicated but you just explained everything so well. I made a bag from let over jean material and could have really used that button trick. Also the pocket trick will come in handy as I have two shirt dresses that I now know how to alter. ❤❤❤ I definitely will be thinking of you when I tackle that project 💫

[@sharonliebenberg4777]

Thank you so much for taking the time to share these trade secrets. As others have mentioned, the pocket hack and crutch hack is amazing aswell as the amazing aswell as the button trick. Got to save this video for finding u quickly. Pl keep sharing ur a gem.

[@mozu517]

The button trick--sweet!

[@Hiker_who_Sews]

The pocket alteration is great!! The word (maybe?) is ease. Not exactly gathered, but still made slightly smaller.

[@DowntownTailoring]

Yessss that is the word! Thank you so much, I’ve been looking for it for so long. Also, thank you!

[@tnone7873]

The word you are looking for is ease-ing. This is also done on the head of a sleeve to make it more rounded and a circular shape. This is an excellent idea! I love listening to you and watching all of your expertise!! A wealth of info!

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks so much 🥰

[@PracticalPip]

This is such a valuable video! Thanks so much for sharing these tricks with the world! xoxo

[@Lili-ls7um]

Ohhh love the button trick. Wished I saw it earlier but thankful to see it now anyway.

[@jacquelinemorris5206]

It’s called “easing in” the fabric. You do it like a gather but don’t actually make it ruffle. You use this technique when sewing in the back part of sleeves.

[@nekrokleptic]

thats the one

[@kimberleyjane2338]

Yep, you got it! Matching the ease!!

[@prof.cecilycogsworth3204]

The button! OMG! Genius.

[@IMOO1896]

I always learn something when I watch you, even this old gray dogs brain matter still can learn. I’m glad you examples adjusting the front crotch. I have this problem often when buying pants that fit well everywhere except there. The legs fit ok, it’s just like the pants are made for larger tummies. I’ve tried to “simple adjust” but my method is not idea. Thanks so much for sharing your expertise with us!

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks so much for watching!

[@Karmaz132]

Love the humor on the last bit “…that is not a hack, that’s a job!” ❤

[@DowntownTailoring]

😄😄😄

[@1954evelyn]

Oh my, I love all of these tips the pocket one is my favorite so glad to learn it. Also, my machine came with a special piece I think it is called a"Jean-A-Ma-Jig" it works the same way as the button but seriously I am glad to learn the button that would be much easier than the Jean-A-Ma-Jig as always thank you you are going to be at 50,000 subscribers soon :)

[@DowntownTailoring]

Hi Evelyn!!! I’m so glad you learned some new tips here! My button back was actually inspired by the Jean-a-ma-jig but I was hoping to make it a little more accessible for everyone! Thank you so much for your kind support throughout all this time! Cheers! ❤️🥰

[@ruthers251]

Thanks for the button under the presser foot trick!! I am a 78 year old sewer and never heard of that. Love it!💜💜💜

[@DowntownTailoring]

🥰🥰🥰

[@heidihaeni7783]

"Ease stitch" is on the neckline of the dress. It's when one edge is lightly gathered, then sewn to an edge that is flat. It doesn't result in puckering, since the clothing curves on the body. Set in sleeves use this stitch.

[@amyleen2008]

Omg the pocket! That was brilliant!! Thank you

[@judyblackman-callender2629]

What is your name mam? I believe you'd make a great teacher of teaching us Spanish as well. I can listen for hours, hearing you speak, imparting your knowledge thoughts, and or feelings about a subject. Judy here. 👍🏾🇹🇹

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks so much. My name is Aida.

[@judyblackman-callender2629]

@@DowntownTailoring Ok. Thanks Aida. Nice name for you. It so suits you. 😘💕🇹🇹

[@faodail3913]

I've been sewing for 60 yrs and I learnt so much from you. Thank you!!🥰

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks so much!

[@madeleineschwarrtz7433]

Mt favorite hack is taking in the dress with lockets...how.simple!!!! Thank you...you have saved me alot of time!!! And time is money in this business!!!!

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks so much! You are so kind 💕

[@delphy50]

Just couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw your tip for the pockets 😮 and the button tip will be very helpful in the futur. Thanks so much. Your a clever lady 👌

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks so much! I, myself, had to do it a few times to believe that it was that easy. Cheers!

[@fishfootface]

I've been putting off taking in a dress of mine because I can't be bothered dealing with the pockets. I couldn't believe it when I saw your tip. So easy and common sense, when you think about it. Thankyou so much.❤

[@zelphiaellerson6283]

I am SOOO glad I discovered this channel! Sometimes the algorithm works!

[@LoosingItNow]

Button use for the jeans!!! That was a good one.

[@DowntownTailoring]

Thanks 🥰

[@iammoodycf]

The button trick is a game changer. Thank you!🙌🤩

[@irenedyrynda9084]

The jeans fix was incredible. Thank you.

[@happyGma333]

I love this!!! Thank you!!! My favorite is the side pocket & button hack!!!😊