You've probably just bought a classic denim jacket that's a little too big. Or, you want to change the size of the blazer to fit the body to wear to a special event. Whatever the reason, the right jacket size is very important to show your style and taste, and make sure it is comfortable to wear! Depending on the type of jacket you want to shrink, there are several ways you can try to achieve the results you want.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Shrink Jackets in the Washing Machine
Step 1. Check the label on the jacket to see if the material is machine washable
It's important to make sure the jacket material is machine washable so you don't damage it. Remember, not all types of jackets are easy to shrink in the washing machine.
- Cotton-based fabrics, such as denim, shrink much more easily than polyester.
- Remember to check the pockets of your jacket and take out anything that's in there before washing it!
- Make sure there are no other clothes in the washing machine so you don't risk damaging them.
Step 2. Turn on the washing machine with the maximum heat setting and the longest washing duration
You don't need to use detergent to shrink the jacket. Just fill the washing machine with tap water.
- Polyester usually has to be heated several times before it shrinks in size, whereas cotton can shrink after one wash.
- If your jacket is fragile enough, start on a low setting to test the effect, then increase the temperature or repeat the process as needed.
Step 3. Check your jacket to determine how much it is shrinking
Take the jacket out of the washing machine and align it with your body to check the dimensions. Depending on the material of the jacket, you may need to repeat the washing process to get the right size.
- If you are unsure of the jacket size, wait for the jacket to dry and try again. Some types of fabric, such as cotton, may shrink more when heated in a tumble dryer.
- If the jacket still doesn't shrink as desired after two washes, you may want to try another method to prevent damage to the fabric.
Step 4. Hang the jacket to dry when you get the right size
Squeeze any excess water from the jacket before hanging it up. Depending on the material of the jacket, you may just need to wash it and hang it to dry to allow the jacket to shrink
Hanging the jacket to dry is the safest option for drying the jacket without shrinking it
Step 5. Put the jacket in the dryer if you want it to shrink even more
It's a good idea to start on a low heat setting to see the shrinking effect. You can dry it at a higher temperature if needed.
The high heat setting on the dryer can make materials such as polyester or silk look worn. Both materials should be heated on a low setting in a tumble dryer, or hung to dry
Method 2 of 3: Using Boiling Water to Shrink a Jacket
Step 1. Boil enough water to cover the entire jacket
Remember to leave enough room for the jacket to fit into it. Have a wooden spoon or metal spoon ready to help you submerge the jacket in the water.
- It is not recommended to boil a jacket made of polyester because hot water can damage the jacket material and change its shape.
- Remember to be careful when using hot water!
Step 2. Put your jacket in a pot of boiling water and turn off the stove
Roll up or fold your jacket to fit in the pan. Use a metal spoon or wooden spoon to help you hold the jacket underwater until it is completely submerged.
- Lightweight fabrics such as cotton or silk can shrink easily when exposed to heat. If your jacket is made of perishable material, be sure to turn off the stove immediately when placing it in boiling water.
- Thick fabrics like denim can outlast exposure to heat before shrinking. If you want to shrink a denim jacket, leave the stove on for 20-30 minutes longer.
Step 3. Soak the jacket in hot water for 5-7 minutes, then remove it from the pot
After turning off the stove, soak the jacket in hot water while allowing the water to cool. When you're done, carefully remove the jacket from the water with food tongs or a wooden spoon so you don't hurt yourself.
You can repeat the process of boiling the water and soaking the clothes, and let the jacket soak longer if it doesn't shrink to your liking
Step 4. Hang the jacket to dry or dry it in a clothes dryer
Once the jacket is cool enough to touch, squeeze out as much water as possible. Remember, some types of fabric, such as cotton, will shrink more when machine dried.
If you're not sure how much your jacket will change after shrinking, you'll need to hang it up to dry and try it again, then repeat the process all over again if needed
Method 3 of 3: Using a Tailor to Change Jacket Size
Step 1. Find a tailor who can help you fit your jacket
Tailors are professionals who are able to change the shape of clothes and have their own specialties, such as tailors specializing in suits or leather jackets. Check with a few tailors in your area to make sure they can shrink your jacket.
- Using a tailor is the best way to shrink a jacket so that it fits snugly without damaging the material.
- You can also contact a number of tailors to ask for an estimated cost so that you can find a tailor at a rate that fits your budget.
Step 2. Take your jacket to the tailor and let him measure you
Explain to the tailor which part to change and ask him to measure you. Using the services of a tailor is the best way to get a jacket in the size you want.
- Tailors can make specific adjustments if you want to shrink certain parts of your jacket.
- Contact the tailor in advance if you want to make an appointment and schedule an appointment if necessary.
- Record your body measurements; those numbers might come in handy in the future!
Step 3. Leave your jacket at the tailor and pick it up when it's finished modifying
The tailor will usually provide an estimated processing time or contact you when the jacket is ready to be picked up. Be sure to try on the jacket in place at the tailor to make sure it is the right size.
