Resizing a Hoodie: BEGINNER-FRIENDLY!!

Even if you’re a beginner, you can customize the fit of an oversized hoodie. I’ll take you through each step with clear instructions. So don’t worry, you’ve got this!
MY FAVE SEWING TOOLS: My sewing machine - Babylock Sofia 2
My serger - an old Kenmore
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#diyfashion #upcycling #thrifting
Music: Lawrence by Track Tribe from the KZbin Audio Library
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Thank you for watching and supporting the growth of my channel!
Until next time, take care!
~Catherine
0:00 Intro
0:30 The Inspo!
1:34 Marking
2:433 Cutting
5:22 First Fitting
6:00 Taking in the Sides
7:20 Reattaching the Pocket
9:09 Sewing the Sideseams
10:01 The Ribbing
14:55 Done!

[@carajohnson6211]

My two favorite pastimes are thrifting and sewing! Now, with your guidance, I can combine the two! You break the steps down so it is so simple to follow. I look forward to all your videos! Thank you!

[@CatherineSews]

Cara, that’s so great to hear! Those are my favourite pastimes too 🥰

[@snailspace3938]

Easy to understand & follow instructions, this videos is definitely a good confidence builder for newbies & those of us getting back into sewing. Thank you sooooo much.

[@MrB_and_me]

I love your videos, Catherine! You're such a good teacher. I don't know how you put out a video a week and still teach in school and do all your other regular life things. But I'm glad you do!

[@michellemabelle100]

Looks fabulous! I haven't been thrifting in ages (nor have I bought new clothes in a long time) so this is very inspiring!

[@hamsonthehill]

I'll bet your students and their parents appreciate you showing them how to be thrifty. Love this tutorial.

[@CatherineSews]

I hope so! I think it’s really important. Thanks so much for watching and commenting.

[@bhallmark3390]

This was very inspiring, Catherine! When looking for a hoodie at the thrift store, we can look in the women’s AND men’s section since we have an understanding of how to resize them! Thanks so much!

[@vivianhamilton616]

So true!

[@daxxydog5777]

Your videos are always reminding me of things I’ve been meaning to do! I have a gigantic sweatshirt of my husband’s that I love and I kept it when he didn’t want it anymore. Now I know what to do with it 😊

[@sylvieboucher9266]

Go for it!!! 😉

[@helenablignaut662]

I was upcycling a shirt and promised myself I could watch Catherine Sews when I'm done 😊. That gave me the motivation I needed, and now I have a "brand new" shirt to wear ❤

[@CatherineSews]

I love that! Thanks for such a cute comment 😍

[@kayBTR]

I have the same Brother sewing machine as you do. Would you please do a video on how to get the thread and bobbin tension correct? Just show us how to get our stitches perfect, perfect length etc. Thank you!

[@meon3wheels]

Nice! I needed this! I have a hoodie that I love but since losing 60 lbs, it is so huge on me! Thank you for this Catherine!

[@sylvieboucher9266]

Go for it!!! 😉

[@bohorustica8545]

A perfect project for me to try as I have an old cotton hoodie with a small hole in the front, by moving the pocket up - hole is gone. Such an inspiration you are. : ))

[@heatherbeamish7079]

Thanks for the video. I liked how you mentioned the stitch and type of needles used 😊

[@kayBTR]

I would love to see you do a video showing us how to make a very simple summer sleeveless linen dress without having to buy a pattern for just a dress made of 2 pieces.

[@trish3580]

Hi Catherine Thank you for making a project that I can do with no serger...I won't be able to purchase one and often feel a bit left out when everyone uses them! And thanks for mentioning the stitch you used...I'm really excited about this project as it feels like I'll be able to complete it without tears :)

[@maryannecadd796]

I love that you're fearless with your scissors! I enjoy seeing all these great upcycles. Since watching you, I'm determined to check out thrift stores rather than buying new!

[@myrandavano7470]

Hi, I'm new to your channel but I love the easy going and clear explaining and not needing all sorts of expansive tools. Thank you from the Netherlands

[@TheConnieadkins]

I have several pullover hoodies that I would like to convert to zip hoodies. Can you make a video of that process?😊

[@m.b.ortega544]

Great idea!

[@karenwilliams4152]

Ohh! Yes!

[@michelleskotynsky9426]

Yes, please!! I get too hot in a pullover hoodie!!

[@carmenfeliciano5035]

Catherine I love the way you explain your self your are a good teacher thank you for been so patient with of of us I love sawing all so.

[@elizabethseibert757]

Thank you so much, was gifted a sewing machine from a passed grandmother on my boyfriends moms side. My mother is an avid sewer so this was quite the gift. I’m very excited. Thank you for helping to teach me my very first project with the new machine. You explain things perfectly!

[@ae4419]

Fantastic instructions! Thank you!!😊

[@twelevensies]

It's so satisfying to watch your serger in action!

[@ginahayes6169]

Niiice! Now change out the white string, to a pretty tie made of a eye popping fabric! 🙋🏻‍♀️♥️

[@judih.8754]

Catherine I love your videos! I've wanted a serger for a long time. Finally bought one earlier this week. Yeah!

[@sylvieboucher9266]

Congratulations !!!

[@sharonbrinders1224]

Thank you so much Catherine, great tutorial as always.

[@marionmathews9852]

Another fabulous up cycle!

[@miketa87]

You make this look so easy…thanks!!

[@lesleywatkins1172]

I’m going to try this! Thanks for the great video! 😊

[@AngeVPV]

Great tips!

[@elainelear4982]

I have deconstructed a sweater and a sweatshirt. Now to reconstruct. Thank you for all the hints & techniques.

[@marygersetich8709]

Really cute! Nice job.

[@matadaniel6520]

Wow.. that looked amazing .. very inspired 👏

[@barbaravoneitzen7367]

Wow it looks so good. Sure enjoy your videos.

[@kathyboeckman2266]

Thanks for making these videos. I'm learning so much❤

[@lynmcnorton9627]

You’re a clever lady thanks for the video 🤩

[@normacooper6377]

Thanks for sharing this very practical video. Makes me think I could do it.

[@MdIsa25]

Very helpful tutorial! I love the way you explain. I will definitely try this method and thank you for uploading this detailed video.

[@juliafisher1870]

Thanks for the great tutorial! It's perfect timing as I just got a hand me down hoodie that I need to make smaller.

[@katieduffy593]

The resized hoodie is great.

[@lindascott6968]

Thanks! I just bought a too big hoodie so now I know how to make it fit😊

[@susanskidmore9516]

Oh, how timely Catherine.💃💃 I love hoodies and have several in the que waiting for inspiration to update. Glad I didn't jump in before viewing this video. Your instructions are perfect and just the look I was wanting!

[@SquintyBubbles]

This is fantastic, thank you so very much. 😊

[@carolcarter865]

Love it!!

[@fayehendricksen5689]

Amazing tutorial Catherine, your instructions are very clear and easy to follow thank you

[@tina3247]

I’m always inspired by your makeovers. I have lowered the neck and brought up the shoulders of 4 over-sized t-shirts this summer.

[@susanladouceur890]

Those notches are are great tip for stretchy material.

[@aminahawa7237]

Thanks Catherine. Thus is brilliant. I have four big hoodies. I can leave some big and do the other two like yours. So inspiring. Great job 🥰👍

[@lucilledaub5991]

Love the sweatshirt n the color on you.

[@marykayholland6446]

Oh my gosh, just found you and so glad I did! Perusing through your videos I find all the information I’ve been wanting just to take or let out my own clothing! Thanks so much, your instructions are so easy to follow and your voice is so calm and encouraging. 😍

[@annabuther923]

Amazing. Merci, Danke, gracias

[@sarahferrell5458]

Super cute

[@katieduffy593]

You did look great in that hoodie you tried on in the shop!

[@bonnierobbins4230]

Yes! Red no gray!! Lol😂 Sweet idea! Bonnie Ohio

[@anneard1674]

impressive!

[@mjdevorick8404]

Video just started but I already smashed the Like button!

[@hjccontest]

Haha that was fun and good news is it was all familiar to me :). LOVE THE AFTER SO MUCH! PERFECTION ACTUALLY!

[@ruthtorphy2204]

Wish I had seen this before I had thrown out band of sweatshirt. Left it a raw bottom. Works well inside my denim jacket as I’m petite. Will always check your videos in feature🙏🌞

[@lynn858]

Ideas for hiding branding/logos on thrifted/got it for free clothing: (Or damage/stains on your old clothes) Ribbon, or bias tape. Can be used as a decorative stripe. (Be sure it's machine washable and won't bleed, by putting it through the washer and dryer in a mesh bag prior to attaching) Save the printed image you enjoy from a garment you enjoy but which you can no longer wear (size damage) and sew a patch over the ugly bits on another garment. Depending on how you attach it this can look very alt or punk style, or like an original design element. Embroider directly on the garment. Attach an embroidered patch, or make your own. On canvas items like jackets, hats, or tote bags, a piece of plain cotton, broadcloth, or twill can be ironed with raw edges under, and applied as a square. If the colours are fairly similar, the square of solid logo hiding fabric just blends in. They're not paying me to advertise, so unless it's a good cause I really believe in, I won't be promoting it.

[@Mxrly]

I have this hoodie that I really like but is too big on me, and that’s a problem I have in general with clothes and I always end up paying someone to fix them, now I know how to fix it myself. Thank you ☺️

[@sarahrudd4995]

I loved this video and would love to be able to do this, but being plus size it is almost impossible to find garments in my size, let alone bigger in a charity shop.

[@msfrost9049]

Catherine has a great video on how to make t-shirts bigger. Maybe one could use some of the same ideas. How the ribbing part works I am not sure though. And seams would be slightly bulkier.. Just a thought.

[@PreciousMe]

Hey Catherine. Love all your videos (this one too). I would love to see you turn jeans into the fall trend of maxi denim skirts. I've looked at the designer ones - Burberry, Valentino, etc. and they are gorgeous. I'm not a denim girl but would definitely wear a maxi skirt. What do you think? Big Hugs

[@CatherineSews]

Yes! I’ve been thinking that very same thought! Let me see what I can come up with 😎

[@SBL1932]

Oh how I wish I was in your class

[@lupitamagana9931]

I love how u explain everything thank u I have learned so much from u yesterday I did my first good blouse out of a skirt ❤scared but got it done 🐝🌻💋🦋

[@CatherineSews]

Wow! Good for you! That’s amazing 🤩

[@doudou53d44]

Smashing 👍😎🐕‍🦺🐈‍⬛!!!!

[@robyn3349]

Super!

[@lynn858]

I'm a few to no pins sewist personally, so I giggled about "not recommending fewer pins". And had to go back and look. Because most sewists really like their pins (unless they sewed in factories). Hmm... Start, finish, and alignment point (in this case a seam). I would have to agree. Most fabrics and situations, going less than that is not recommended. :)

[@sylviamaxwell504]

Thanks "sew" 😊 much Catherine ❤😂😮 amazing

[@CMeyer-ut3dd]

Looks great! I have a big sloppy sweatshirt, and the ribbing is coming off. I might have to fix it and make it new!

[@suzannecrelley2369]

You look lovely in red Catherine!

[@leannsews]

I always love your videos. How would you shorten a zip-up hoodie? Would you take the zipper completely out and shorten it from the top or is there a better easier way?

[@HisStolenIdentity]

Oh the hoodie came out really nice. You could go on bargain day and get 2 different color swopping out the colored pockets and even the hoodie. Hummmm 🤔...Think I will!😅 Thanks!

[@reidwegrecki2653]

Thanks for this tutorial! I recently ordered some merch from my favorite band and purposely ordered an oversized hoodie knowing I'd tailor it once it got here. I've done some tailoring of hoodies before but this is a really special one that I don't want to ruin! Excited to try your tutorial. I will say, for me when I'm bringing in the sides of anything, I don't usually cut the side seems. That way the fabric stays in place better. But I can see how that could lead to some less-than-professional looking results. Would love to get your opinion on this!

[@CatherineSews]

I would definitely trim the side seams down to a reasonable seam allowance, especially if the seam is curved at all. Try it. I think you’ll find that your seams lay a lot smoother. Good luck with your hoodie alterations!

[@kathleenallen5417]

Thanks for this, you make it look so easy!😂 Going to try it on an old favorite, which is now too big since I've lost weight. Do you have a video on how to down size sweat pants?

[@mathieya]

Can you do a tutorial on making thumb holes in a sweater or hoodie?

[@dianadougherty7187]

Thank you, Catherine, Good advice there. Have you figured out a way of sharpening your stitch ripper?

[@lynn858]

They *can* be sharpened with a tiny round file for metal working. If you know someone who does metal working they might have one. Unless you've got a fancier stitch ripper, it's not worth buying a file you don't have other uses for, even if you find it cheap at a surplus shop. Some of those "easy" knife sharpeners where you run the knife between two angled stoned in a handheld holder, might be about the right size. I'm pretty anti-disposable myself - but I can't say I've sharpened a stitch ripper due to a friend buying a 50 pack for cheap, and making sure all her sewing people had 5-10 on hand so we could set them down and lose them constantly, and still be able to (usually) lay hands on one. I tend to break them before they get frustratingly dull.

[@juliabrooks180]

Hi Catherine! I have sewed all my lifebut I am learning so much from your videos. I have a question, do you have a video that shows how to take up the Vneck of a hoodie or take the hoodie off even. It is a stretching and it doesn't really have a shoulder seam.

[@pwmiller6985]

Love your work thanks for sharing, question do you have a video on taking in jeans? lost a lot of weight and I want to keep them but not sure how to do that, please advise.

[@CatherineSews]

I have this video, but it just helps you take in the waist a couple inches: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYiUdWp4mMeFg9Esi=wP8Nm2E9CNEz8Kz5

[@arvettadelashmit9337]

Wow! That hoodie fits you nicely now. It looks loose enough around the neck on you. But, I hate hoodies on me; because, they are too hard on my neck; and the hoods are too small (and will not stay up when I want them up). I have a short neck. However, I do wear hoodies that have a zipper all the way down the front. I still don't like the hoods.

[@Maplecook]

Woooooot!

[@rodia9364]

How nice of a sowing machine do I need to be doing this type of stuff? Thanks for the video.

[@jonuvark2385]

I love your repurposed clothing and always learn things from you. I'm a gal who likes to cut off sweatshirt cuffs and the Eisenhower waistband.

[@susuburleson878]

Catherine, I notice you do have a four-thread serger and I’m curious as to why you choose to sew your seams on the sewing machine and then finish them with a four-thread serged edge instead of just serging with your four-thread, which sews two rows of straight stitches and overlocks your seam edges at one pass?

[@CatherineSews]

Excellent question! I do exactly as you say when I’m working with lighter weight knits, like T-shirts, but for heavier knits, I like the security of sewing and then serving. It also gives me a chance to try it on before finishing my edges.

[@susuburleson878]

@@CatherineSews Thanks for answering!

[@rosac8168]

A thrifty I will go hi ho hi ho lol nice job

[@eliea7900]

Enjoying your channel. Do you mean 2” off the cuffs (1” cutting top and bottom side)? And do you mean 8” off the waist (4” cutting top and bottom side)?

[@donnalordly1615]

How can you loosen the neckline

[@nahomesalt]

What about the hood? I want to resize a hoodie I got and the hood of the hoodie is so huge💔. I’m normally a size M but this hoodie is like 2xL. Anyways thanks for the video it gave me hope in fixing my hoodie, thank you💋❤️❤️and you look so preppy with the new size of the hoodie, fits you so good ☺️❤️.

[@ohquilter1291]

A friend gave me some sweatpants that she outgrew BUT they are too fat & too long. I got it on cut the bottom cuff off, shorten them & add the cuff back but I'm thinking I need to deal with the fat legs & "too big" waist before I tackle the hems. I've taken the waist elastic out because it's stretched out & I'll be adding new elastic. Should I just mark & remove the inseam first? Would love a video of remaking oversized sweatpants! Thanks for all your great videos ❤

[@CatherineSews]

Hi OQ! Have you seen this one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/joHGp6iueNiUp6ssi=-q0bG5Xl67H9nBVx. It might not be exactly what you need, but I think you’re already on the right track with taking in the side seams and/or the inseam.

[@vnickcolvin4971]

Question why not take the sleeves out and cut off at the shoulder end?

[@schisandra]

Probably because it’s easier to shorten the sleeve by cutting at the cuff end, not the shoulder end.

[@CatherineSews]

@@schisandra Exactly! 😍

[@vivianhamilton616]

Ummm, way too much work!

[@dapurairlangga]

Catherine❤ This is a good video that I've ever seen,friends are always connected,if friends need authentic Indonesian recipes,I make them,I complete your language for each video so you can try Indonesian dishes,greetings from Indonesia,friends😊

[@user-wx9vq8kv1s]

If it’s anything I learned you don’t fux with swooshes lol

[@CatherineSews]

Haha, you got that right!

[@beverlyosborn5240]

You are one of my favourites CS ❤🧵you are easy listening friendly and talented 👍🌺💃🏽love from 🇦🇺😎