Alexei Volkov
Whether it's the legs of your rain pants or the sleeves of your rain jacket, altering the length of your rain gear can be a simple process. If you have a sewing machine, you can shorten the legs of your rain pants by cutting them to the desired length, folding them over, and sewing a row of stitches to hide the raw edge. For rain jackets with bulky cuffs, the process is a bit more involved, as you will need to remove the cuff and cut the desired length off both the outer sleeve and the lining. If you're unsure about doing it yourself, you can always take your rain gear to a tailor, who can shorten the sleeves or legs and re-waterproof the jacket if needed.
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What You'll Learn
Shortening the sleeves
One approach is to remove the cuff by detaching it from both sides. Before removing the cuff, it is advisable to measure the desired sleeve length. Based on this measurement, cut the outer sleeve and lining accordingly, ensuring that the sleeve is shortened by the same amount on both the outer and inner layers. This method involves altering the sleeve length from the cuff downwards, which may impact the cuff's appearance and functionality.
Another method is to shorten the sleeves from the shoulder end. This involves removing the entire sleeve by carefully unstitching it from the body of the jacket. Once the sleeve is detached, cut it to the desired length, taking into account the seam allowance. Reattach the sleeve by stitching it back to the body of the jacket, ensuring that the sleeve is securely fastened and any stitch holes are sealed to maintain waterproofing.
If the plastic rain jacket has zippers on the sleeves, shortening them can be more complex. It may be necessary to remove the entire zipper, shorten it from the top, and then re-sew it onto the sleeve. Alternatively, cutting the zipper and adding a stop, such as molten plastic or a zipper slider, can adjust its length.
When shortening the sleeves of a plastic rain jacket, it is important to consider the waterproofing and ensure that any alterations do not compromise the jacket's functionality. Using waterproofing treatments, such as iron-on strips or liquid sealants, can help maintain the jacket's ability to repel water.
It is recommended to carefully plan and measure before making any cuts or alterations to ensure the desired sleeve length is achieved, and the jacket remains functional and waterproof.
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Removing the cuffs
The first step is to carefully detach the cuff from the sleeve. This can be challenging, as the cuff is usually secured on both sides with sturdy stitching. It is important to work slowly and gently to avoid damaging the fabric. Using a seam ripper or a small pair of scissors, carefully separate the cuff from the sleeve by cutting or ripping the stitches that hold them together. Take your time with this step to ensure that the fabric remains intact and undamaged.
Once the cuff is removed, it is important to measure the sleeve length again to confirm how much fabric needs to be removed. Mark the cutting line with chalk or fabric pencil to ensure a straight and precise cut. Using sharp fabric scissors, carefully cut along the marked line, trimming the desired amount of fabric from the sleeve. It is crucial to use sharp scissors designed for fabric to ensure a clean cut and minimize the risk of damaging the sleeve.
After cutting the sleeve to the desired length, it is necessary to finish the raw edge of the fabric to prevent fraying and ensure a neat appearance. One option is to fold the raw edge under and secure it with stitching. This creates a clean finish and helps reinforce the new sleeve length. Alternatively, you can apply a fabric sealant or fray preventer to the raw edge, which will seal the fabric and prevent it from fraying.
Finally, it is essential to reattach the cuff to the shortened sleeve. Carefully align the cuff with the new sleeve length, ensuring that it is positioned correctly. Using a needle and thread, securely stitch the cuff back in place, following the original stitching lines as a guide. Take your time with this step to ensure that the cuff is securely attached and that the stitches are neat and strong. Once the cuff is reattached, your plastic rain jacket will have sleeves that fit perfectly, and you can enjoy dry and comfortable wrists during rainy walks.
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Cutting the zips
If you want to shorten a plastic rain jacket, you will need to cut the zips. This process is not too complicated, but it does require some careful work. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cut the zips when shortening a plastic rain jacket:
First, you need to remove the entire zipper from the jacket. This will allow you to work with the zipper more easily and make the necessary adjustments. Use a seam ripper or a small pair of scissors to carefully detach the zipper from the fabric. Make sure that you do not damage the surrounding material or any other parts of the jacket during this process.
Once the zipper is removed, you can now focus on shortening it. Measure the desired length of the zipper and mark it with a fabric pen or tailor's chalk. You can place the jacket on a flat surface and try it on to determine the ideal length. Remember that it is better to err on the side of caution and cut less than you think you need; you can always trim more if needed, but you cannot add length back once it is cut.
After marking the zipper, use a pair of sharp scissors or a rotary cutter to carefully cut the zipper to the desired length. Cut straight and try to make the edge as neat and clean as possible. Any unevenness or jagged edges can affect the functionality of the zipper and its overall appearance.
Now that the zipper is cut to the right length, you need to prevent the slider from falling off. One common method is to add a zipper stop or zipper tab. You can use molten plastic to create a new stop, or you can purchase commercial zipper stops that can be easily attached to the end of the zipper. This will keep the slider in place and allow the zipper to function properly.
Finally, with the zipper shortened and secured, you can now reattach it to the jacket. Carefully sew the zipper back into place, ensuring that it is straight and secure. Try to match the thread colour to the jacket for a more seamless finish. Once the zipper is reattached, test it to ensure that it opens and closes smoothly.
By following these steps, you can successfully cut and shorten the zips on a plastic rain jacket. It is important to work carefully and take your time, especially when cutting the zipper and reattaching it to the jacket. With these adjustments, you can achieve a custom fit and continue to enjoy your rain jacket for many more adventures to come.
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Re-sewing the zipper
Re-sewing a zipper can be a daunting task, especially for beginners, but with the right tools and a step-by-step guide, you can achieve great results. Here is a detailed instruction on how to re-sew a zipper on a plastic rain jacket:
Prepare the Zipper and Jacket
Before you begin, choose a zipper that is long enough for the jacket opening. Ideally, the new zipper should be the same length as the one you are replacing. If your jacket is made of stretchy fabric, select a stretchy zipper, and if it is made of solid fabric, opt for a solid zipper. The fabric strips for the slips should be 6-8 cm wide and about 5 cm longer than the zipper.
Remove the Old Zipper
Open the zipper and carefully cut through the spiral and zipper tape just above the reinforced box piece at the bottom. If your jacket has a profile zipper, cut between the teeth to protect your scissors. Use a seam ripper to carefully unravel the seams around the bottom end of the zipper, and then cut off and remove the bottom end. Repeat this process for the other half of the zipper, ensuring no teeth are left on the old zipper tape.
Prepare the New Zipper
Place the jacket opening against the new zipper and secure it with fabric clips or clothespins. The edge of the jacket fabric should align closely with the seam where the zipper will be sewn. Fold the overhanging fabric around the top of the zipper and secure it with another fabric clip.
Sew the Zipper
Use a strong needle, such as a 100 or 110 gauge jeans needle, or a 100 gauge universal needle. A regular 80-gauge needle is not suitable for this task. Begin stitching, backstitching at the start to secure the thread. Stitch along the original stitching line, being careful not to sew over any pins. When you encounter a snap, continue stitching as usual. Hold the jacket tightly in front of and behind the zipper foot as you sew to avoid any puckers.
Final Steps
Once the entire zipper is stitched in, attach the lining. Sew it from the inside out by pulling out the sleeve and finding the topstitch seam. Sew along this seam to close the hole and ensure a neat finish on both the inside and outside of the jacket. Zip up the jacket to check your work, and then close the hole in the sleeve by topstitching at the edge. Your zipper is now securely sewn in, and your jacket is ready to wear!
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Sealing the seams
Using a Sealing Compound
One approach is to use a sealing compound specifically designed for this purpose. For example, you can brush on a liquid compound onto the "wrong side" of the fabric, allowing it to penetrate and fill the stitch holes. This compound dries clear, ensuring that the stitch holes are plugged up and no longer a pathway for water ingress.
Zipper Alteration
If your alteration involves changing the length of a zipper, you must first remove the entire zipper. Shorten it at the top and then re-sew it in place. This method avoids cutting the zipper, which could compromise its integrity and water-resistant properties.
Hemming
Hemming is a straightforward method of sealing seams. Simply fold over the raw edge twice to conceal it and then sew a row of stitches. This technique neatly tucks away the exposed edge, creating a clean finish that prevents water from entering through the needle holes.
Waterproofing Strips
Gore-Tex waterproofing strips are another option to reseal your jacket. These strips can be ironed on over the affected area, providing a new barrier against water ingress.
Silicon Sealant
While not specifically mentioned for rain jackets, some sources discuss using a silicon sealer for rain pants. This method may be applicable, depending on the material and construction of your jacket.
Remember, when altering and resealing your plastic rain jacket, always consider the unique characteristics of the fabric and its construction. It is essential to choose a sealing method that will not only prevent water ingress but also maintain the integrity and functionality of your jacket.
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Frequently asked questions
Shortening the sleeves of a plastic rain jacket can be done by removing the cuff and cutting off the desired length from the outer sleeve and the lining. You can then stitch the sleeve in place.
The cost of alterations can vary depending on the tailor and the complexity of the work. A price range of $20 to $40 for shortening sleeves on a rain jacket has been mentioned.
Yes, it is possible to shorten the zipper on a plastic rain jacket. One way to do this is by removing the entire zipper, shortening it at the top, and then re-sewing it.
Sealing the seams is not necessary, especially if you are only cutting and hemming the fabric. However, if you are concerned about water seepage, you can use a silicon sealer or a product specifically designed for rain gear, like Goretex waterproofing strips.
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