Seamstress .....Advice desperately needed

[shyandmighty]

Not sure I'm even posting in the right area but....has anyone got a quick, foolproof formula for shortening the hem on a dress? I need to cut off about 4 inches and the material is that flimsy, silky stuff.

I know its going to be a challenge but have to get on and do it soon. Do we recommend 'Wonderweb'?

Flimsy silky stuff? Honestly? I would take it to a shop and would be reluctant to use Wonder Web on that sort of material.

Does it say it is ok on packet?

I haven't actually bought any Wonderweb yet so not sure re instructions. Just cannot justify the cost (albeit fairly small) of having it shortened professionally. I'm fairly creative/patient etc and feel I could do it with the right directions.

In fact, if I get this one right, I have several more I could alter and create a whole new winter wardrobe...thinking tunic tops and leggings.

The only way to do it really is to get a water soluble marker pen (from haberdashery dept), then take a piece of card and mark the amount you want to shorten by, then mark back 3 lots of 0.5cm. Go all the way round at 3cm intervals, then cut carefully along the lowest marks.

Then turn the edge over twice by folding over the next mark, up to the final one. Pin and go right round.

You can then either hem it properly or use a sewing machine to sew right through.

Its a bit tedious, but quite soothing. Wonderweb never looks right, and tends to come apart

Thanks for your advice CMOT...That sounds the way to go. No shortcuts - I'm so impatient!