ALTERING meaning and definition

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What Does "Altering" Mean?

In the world of fashion, textiles, and sewing, the term "altering" is a crucial concept that can be quite confusing for many people. So, let's dive in and explore what "altering" means!

Definition:

To alter something means to make changes or modifications to it in order to improve its fit, appearance, or functionality. In the context of clothing, textiles, and sewing, altering refers to the process of modifying a garment, fabric, or textile to achieve a desired outcome.

Types of Altering:

There are several types of altering that can be applied to various materials and garments:

Garment alteration: This involves making changes to a pre-existing garment to fit an individual better. For example, taking in or letting out seams to accommodate different body shapes.
Fabric alteration: This type of alteration focuses on modifying the physical properties of a fabric, such as stretching, shrinking, or re-weaving it.
Textile alteration: Similar to fabric alteration, this involves making changes to the texture, weight, or other characteristics of a textile.

Why Altering Matters:

Altering is an essential part of creating high-quality garments and textiles. Here are some reasons why:

Fit is key: A well-fitting garment can make all the difference in how people perceive themselves. Altered garments ensure that individuals look and feel great.
Customization: Altering allows for customization to individual preferences, body types, or specific needs (e.g., wheelchair accessibility).
Sustainability: By altering existing garments instead of discarding them, we reduce waste and promote a more sustainable fashion industry.

How Altering Works:

The process of altering typically involves the following steps:

Assessment: The garment or fabric is examined to determine what changes need to be made.
Planning: A plan is created outlining the specific alterations required.
Implementation: The actual alteration work takes place, involving techniques such as sewing, cutting, or re-weaving.
Finishing: Any necessary finishing touches are applied, like hemming or adding buttons.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, altering is a crucial process in creating garments and textiles that fit perfectly, look great, and serve specific purposes. Whether it's adjusting the fit of a garment, modifying fabric properties, or customizing textile characteristics, altering is essential for producing high-quality products that meet individual needs and preferences. By understanding what "altering" means, we can appreciate the importance of this process in our daily lives.

References:

[1] Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). (n.d.). Garment Construction.
[2] Textile University. (n.d.). Fabric Science.
[3] Sustainability Fashion. (n.d.). Altering Existing Clothing.

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