MAKING THINGS LONGER: Adding length to sleeves, pants, skirts and dresses!

[@gloriajohnson3161]

60+ years of sewing and I'm still learning such great tips and tricks from you, Catherine. My serger is so happy to be used almost daily now!

[@wendyrowland7787]

80+ here. Went back to sewing as it is one of the things I can still do, and it helps me keep moving. Beginning to wish I had a surger

[@barbaramason7636]

@@wendyrowland7787 Get a serger! You’ll love it!!!!

[@beatrisahellstrom7604]

“What are you if you don’t even try?” Thank you for the reminder. I love how you encourage curiosity and playfulness. Your students are very lucky to have you as their teacher. 🙏

[@AnneluvsKatz]

“her butt didn’t even know if she got dressed that morning” 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@beatrisahellstrom7604]

😂

[@lindap9079]

I am 5'10" tall. Unless I make the garment from scratch, sleeves and hems are almost always too short on me. This is video gave me some new ideas for adding length.

[@dianejohanson98]

Still learning things from you and I’m 70 and have been sewing since I was 12. Great job, Catherine!

[@angelamajor4034]

Same here! Love all her videos and learning all the time!

[@ArabianShalifa]

Count me in the that group. I'll be 60 next month. Dada taught me how to sew when I was 9 or 10.

[@janejarvis6725]

Keep learning as well. Imm 75.

[@christinekreider6153]

1:43 Catherine thank you for all your effort. Please consider showing how to get larger hips with small waist... I have a small waist but a big bubble butt (BBB) big girls need to focus on the BBB!

[@hamsterpee2130]

that’s wonderful

[@bawtosu5269]

Another excellent video from one of the best instructors on KZbin. Thank you for sharing your ideas and knowledge.

[@CatherineSews]

Awww, thank you! So nice!

[@nanettedoerr4396]

Liked this video so much. Thank you for talking slowly and clearly as you go. It makes a big difference to those of us who are seniors and still like to sew. I remember the days when certain prints and fabrics were hard to find and we would have to use what we had. I do believe we are going back to those times, but thru thrift stores and garage sales. Thank you for all you do, and your great ideas. I am 73 and have been sewing since I was 14.

[@mssixty3426]

I really like the way the grey and black striped T-shirt turned out with the added flared sleeves and dandelion design on the front. Thank you for all of your work to make these videos!

[@christinec1928]

The sleeves on the sweater is a huge improvement.

[@loiserickson7704]

Great tips. I think I can use every one of these. I've been sewing 60+ years, always looking for ways to save my favorite items. Clothes never wear out, but my body changes along with comfort styles. Thank you for sharing.

[@feralnonbinaryautistic]

Crease lines from old, unpicked hems can be reduced by wetting the crease with white vinegar before ironing. (Vinegar smell washes out.)

[@melissaegbertson9100]

Another reason to hold onto those SCRAPS!!!! What a difference those little bits of fabric make to the design!❤❤

[@grandmajane2593]

Patchwork makes good pockets or trim for shirts and jackets.

[@arvettadelashmit9337]

I have made pants longer by adding fabric at the top, and altering the crouch to fit. It usually works very well if I use fabric left over from making the top. A few patches here and there on the pants (and they usually pass as "made that way"). As Mom always said, "It wont be noticed on a galloping horse."

[@lindagrace2]

Catherine, you pack SO MUCH goodness in one video! THANK YOU for showing us how you struggled through that 3 needle coverstitch nightmare… I spend as much time undoing seams of all types as sewing so now I don’t feel like the back of the class!!😅 (I changed my profile pic but am still me Transplanted1 for a long time!)

[@WhirlyGirl_2679]

That was awesome! I have been sewing for about 45 years but I have learned so much since I found your channel. I have been binge watching all your videos and have watched some of them more than once because of all the “lightbulb moments” I experience. Also, as a fellow Canadian, “chef’s kiss” for using old hockey pucks for pattern weights! I was going to DIY my own but not now; a few bucks spent at Crappy Sneaker (Canadian Tire) and the pattern weight situation will be handled! 😜Thanks for more inspiring content; hugs from New Brunswick on the opposite side of the country! ❤

[@CatherineSews]

I love comments from fellow Canadians! I’m so glad you are enjoying my channel!

[@sarahferrell5458]

Love the dandelion top! So clever…

[@sandragallo2283]

I’m not sure how I came across your channel but sooo glad I did!

[@helenablignaut662]

I learn so much! I watch all your videos at least twice. If I need to alter something, I just access my Catherine Sews library and I'm all set. Thank you and please never stop❤

[@mammastreed5070]

😂😂😂😂”Her butt didn’t even know she got dressed that morning!” You crack me up! Glad you are feeling better! Another great video!

[@CatherineSews]

Haha, I almost edited that line out, thinking that I crossed a line! I’m glad it gave at least two of us a laugh!! 🤣

[@grandmajane2593]

The coment about a butt pertains to me too, I rarely can buy a blouse/shirt that is long enough. I like them to cover my butt! I add lace sometimes, sometimes I cut off long sleeves to add the material to the bottom.

[@TM-fr4si]

I always learn something new from you and I've been sewing for almost 60 years. Thank you so much!

[@CatherineSews]

That’s so great to hear! Thank you!

[@juanitar.miller5210]

What a useful, easily understood and implemented video; just as we have come to expect!😊 We were beginning to be concerned that you or your family were unwell🙏🏻, so your video this evening is even more appreciated than usual!👏🏻

[@CatherineSews]

You were right! My family and I were all hit by a bad cold. Mine lasted almost 3 weeks! Thanks for your concern. Very kind.

[@juanitar.miller5210]

I’m so sorry that you were so sick so long, and so glad that you are feeling like yourself again.😊

[@gcooper642]

Awesome. I bought some really nice trousers, but didn't realise they're supposed to be cropped. I'm too short for them to look cropped on me, but they're just a little too short to be full length. This technique will make them exactly the right length. Thanks

[@lakishabuchanan2328]

That extension on the sweater is fantastic!

[@judih.8754]

Catherine this is an awesome lesson. As someone who is on the taller side this information will certainly be put to use. Thank you!!

[@laurielevell454]

Thank you so much for these lengthening tips! At 5’9” I have tried many times to add length to sleeves or pants, some successfully 😊, and some not so much ☹️. I also love your tip about sewing the serger tail down at the beginning and have never seen this tip before. I have used my serger for several years and always struggled with how to finish off the tails. I am so glad I found your channel!

[@robintheparttimesewer6798]

That is brilliant! I only made one kid with long arms and he wears t-shirts so I've never had to think of this. For the rest of us I have to remove length which is easy. I will have to keep this in mind for a nephew who is doing a long and lean look right now.

[@melodyryddner912]

I know you were not thrilled that you chose to lengthen yoga pants, instead of another type, but I was happy you did. As a girl with a little more leg length than most pants will cover, Thanks for this helpful tutorial.

[@altaroberts5105]

On the subject of adding - how about some ideas on turning regular clothes into maternity clothes? For winter.

[@gabrielauhlarova7149]

Beautiful changes, you have great taste, and really wonderful creative ideas. Thank you!

[@danamatsukawa4762]

Loved the leg extensions! Today I was taking up a vest that was to large in the bust for me. I sewed the front to the back with wrong side to right side. 🙄I was not as patient as you were seam ripping out black on black. But your videos have impressed on me to keep going. so I darned the rip and sewed it back together .

[@CatherineSews]

Oh, haha! Black on black is the worst! I find that I buy less black these days because I know that it won’t make for a very good video! Good for you for persevering.

[@Terbatcole]

I learned a lot from Catherine. Thanks for showing how to shorten and add on to recycle my clothings. Saved me a lot of money.

[@amikrenzel5788]

I love what you did with the striped T and the dandelion top! Melding two or more garments can really make for some amazing things.

[@childlessdoglady]

Love your videos. You explain things so clearly and I'm in awe of your ability to see not just what the garment is, but what it could be. A video that I would really appreciate would be sewing machine maintenance. Boring maybe but very necessary, especially to those of us who are new to sewing.

[@SusanSmith-hl3iv]

❤❤❤❤❤ LOVE the dandelion puff T-shirt!!! Makes me want to run out to a thrift shop and find a T-shirt to transform. 😊

[@Changeling]

I have at least 3 shirts that need to be resized. All of them need gussets, but two of them need that added length as well. I wasn't 100% sure how to go about doing that until watching the video so thank you!

[@elainechilds1829]

Thanks Catherine for the great instructions. I saw you do the trick about the end of the serger tail of pulling it forward and serging it in but I’d forgotten it because it had been awhile since I had used my serger. I needed that reminder. I loved the way your t-shirt turned out with the dandelion appliqué. And really cute to add part of it to the sleeves! All of the techniques were good to see. Thanks again!

[@rnicholson4135]

I need to lengthen most pants I buy second hand so I add lots of false hems. I usually use a contrasting or toning fabric so that it looks intentional. Often I need way more length though so I add something interesting at the hem rather than trying to match and fail

[@AnneluvsKatz]

The T-shirt with the dandelions looks fantastic!

[@helenv2906]

So much fun to see that you can change the way a garment looks and make it your own. Wonderful video and great learning! You ate a wonderful person and teacher! Thank you so much for sharing your precious art❤❤😊

[@tracyk.8306]

What a great tutorial! It’s given me some great ideas for modifying my existing clothes. The short skirt comment was hilarious! Thank you for being a terrific inspiring instructor ❤

[@Anne--Marie]

Lengthening using the bands, such as in the last project, really looks like it was made that way. Great job!

[@belieftransformation]

Fantastic re-do on all the projects & great instructions! Thanks for sharing your knowledge! All very useful, as I re-do some of my favourite clothes. Blessings to all 🤗🇨🇦

[@normacooper6377]

You had me worried at first with the striped black shirt and the graphic one.😂 Thanks for sharing your projects.

[@mrsbingh]

Thanks for the inspiration and the techniques! Great teacher.

[@nancyferguson9765]

Thank you for showing us how to make sleeves longer, I am getting older and need more 3/4 length sleeves!! I have taken all my winter long sleeve t shirts to 3/4 length already! Thank you so much!

[@nancyathearn8298]

I LOVE what you did with the sleeves on the striped T shirt!

[@martimoore740]

Great tips! You bring so many ideas together in useful ways. You're a true teacher. Thank you for teaching!

[@cathym1257]

Another great video, Catherine. So many helpful tips and tricks! Love the dandelions. All nice outcomes! Thank you!

[@cherylolson1279]

You’re amazing! Love watching your creative process!

[@amandajenn-h3o]

You’re the best Catherine 🎉love your tutorials 🤗

[@CatherineSews]

Awww, thanks Amanda!

[@gillianbc]

The results on each one looked really good - better than the originals. I often but tops that I later discard as they're too short to cover up my tummy - I had not considered adding an extra piece.

[@ArrianeCaling]

Love her comment “Her butt didn’t know she got dressed that morning” 😂

[@SusanPrice-kk3xh]

I could watch you all day, I love your tutorials, thank you ❤x

[@aminahawa7237]

Another great video, thanks Catherine. I learn so much from your tutorials. I wish i could join your classes. Thanks again 🥰🥰

[@JocelyneRichard-h6z]

I enjoyed every minute of the making and I learned a lot. I think I'll make one for my friends for Xmas. Thank you, Catherine!!! ❤

[@kimberlyd9049]

Great ideas! I learn so much every time you post a new tutorial; thank you! ❤

[@jamieomahen2656]

Well that was awesome! Thank you!🎉🎉

[@lakishabuchanan2328]

I’ve always was curious about false hems thank you for showing it 🎉

[@cheche8353]

I live your creativity and persistence! How about fitting jean jackets including increasing sleeve length and perhaps way to modify waistbands for a more flattering fit?

[@ChristineCooper-zm2wn]

Great ways to lengthen ❤. Could you do a video on increasing the size of trousers waistband. Both smart zipped and joggers. My hips are the same size, but my tummy is getting bigger. I love your channel. I've started using my serger.😊 Christine

[@beverlyosborn5240]

Hello Catherine. Happy to sew🧵you again. I mean see 😂

[@Timetraveler1111MN]

I have this dress 👗 hanging next to my bed, this morning i was thinking how i could make it longer! This video came up! I love synchronicity. The dress is skinny straps pink 💘 and white print! Not something I used to, I love it! I got on whatnot app!

[@christinegooddy1573]

Thanks so much, Catherine. This is a problem I have all the time ❤️

[@esperansaloughran693]

Luv the tee-shirt and all your additions. You have great instincts!

[@ArlenePMCM]

All the changes you made really upscaled all the clothes. You've taught me to think outside the box and to be more creative! Awesomeness :)

[@lakishabuchanan2328]

I love that you added extensions to the short shirts in the beginning and turned them into tunics 😊 and the layered skirt is so cute and nice with the extra layer ❤

[@dorothydishman4664]

Your hints are so well presented and valuable..thank you.

[@ConnieAcree]

Your shirt turned out beautifully. However, when I do applique work, I usually do the blanket stitch. God bless.

[@FrugalCarrie]

I'm a new subscriber - I found your channel through your website. I'm learning so many upcycling techniques through your videos! 😃

[@jackiesheasby6677]

Would you consider doing a video on how to lengthen sleeves that would be flattering on outsize arms?

[@SBL1932]

You always have such good tips. This video did not disappoint. I always learn something when watching you at work.

[@elaineforan4751]

You are a star Catherine. You make professional looking finished look so achievable. Thanks so much.

[@Grace_x68]

Thank you Catherine. Your channel has become my favourite.

[@twillett100]

Love your tips, Catherine!

[@sharongallagher3443]

Thanks for such clear instruction.

[@KathyBGood]

can't wait to see this..been trying to think of some way to lengthen my old tshirt sleeves & some pant legs, too. thank you!

[@linkay6]

I love watching you do your magic! The longer sleeves on the t shirt are adorable! I had to lengthen some pants some time back and did it the way you called a fake hem, without knowing what I was doing. It turned out pretty good so I'm happy to learn I did it right. Thanks for your video!!!

[@kaycee18]

Turn your seam ripper the opposite way, with the red ball down and it will glide thru the loopers like butter.

[@sharongallagher3443]

Nice detail for alterations.

[@debrakulas4852]

Thank you for the false hem method, I just hemmed some pants for my husband and could only fold it up about 1/4”, and it curls terribly. I’m going to rip and redo it using your method. Thank you!

[@shantelsellers9394]

I LOVE this so MUCH - you are a lifesaver!

[@caragarcia2307]

I didn't know that a false hem had a name. I did that to a pair of distressed denim shorts. They were on deep clearance and I didn't like the strings ticketing my leg. They fit well so I decided to patch them rather than have them unravel more with every wash. I don't think I understiched. I think I did it by hand so I had a lot of control with the placement.

[@esperansaloughran693]

Excellent tutorial! Thank you!

[@carolines2088]

Love this video. One of the reasons I started sewing was to make pants that were long enough. Back then it was not cool to have unintentional 7/8 pants. Those are great suggestions to make pants longer. Thank you.

[@susanalbert6195]

Great ideas and styled nicely. Enjoyed watching your creations. I'm Inspired to try something new.

[@ChristineCooper-zm2wn]

I did a search of your old videos and found you had already done increasing the size of a waist band about a year ago. I can get busy now. My triangle might not be so discrete. Christine

[@lynnock8003]

Haven't seen you for a while and really enjoyed rhis. I need pants with a 31" inside leg but rarely see them in shops so have to make my own or add lenth to bought ones. Thank you for clear instructions and a voice that is really enjoyable to listen to. 😊

[@davecanoy3248]

Wow! Excellent!

[@pepperminthomecrafts8269]

Thank you! Take care

[@stitchann]

Loved all of the changes you have made.

[@nanasloves]

I love your artistic eye!

[@lydialangfordjoiner765]

Thank you for these tips!

[@susanharber6488]

Sew much fun to watch and learn. 🎉

[@helenm3133]

Hi-I’m 70 and a new sewer. Love your videos. Question: when the top sleeves were lengthened, the garment was inside out; but when the pant legs were lengthened they were right side out. Will you help me understand when to do which. I hope this isn’t a dumb question.

[@natasazalokar2211]

As always great ideas!

[@cathyellington7599]

You make it look so easy. Love your videos. Do you use the same serger stitch for all your serging?

[@CatherineSews]

Thank you! Yes, I pretty much leave my serger on a 4-thread overlock unless I’m doing something fancy!

[@laurajones4088]

Catherine, thanks for this excellent video with so many useful techniques, helpful tips, and creative ideas for lengthening garments. I just found your skills playlist while searching your channel for videos about sergers-what a sewing gold mine!

[@lilaholland5764]

Love your tutorials!

[@suikerbekkie]

Hi Catherine,I love your video's. Do you have any video's on making pants ( from yoga to more formal pants smaller. As I have lost alot of weight and love my existing closet. I find it a shame to have to replace a entire wardrobe every few months. My pants have all become to wide and to long.

[@kathy2951]

Thank you!! the pants make so much sense. Very helpful!