How to Shorten a Metal Zip Step by Step (+ video!)

Found a metal zip, but it’s too long for your sewing project? Don’t worry - you can shorten it at home with a few simple tools. In this tutorial, we’ll show you step by step how to shorten a metal zip so it fits your garment perfectly. 

Whether you’re making trousers, a skirt, or a dress, knowing how to adjust a zip to the right length will save you from endless zip-shopping headaches. Once you’ve mastered it, you’ll be able to customise zips for all your handmade clothes! 

You can use this tutorial when making sewing projects such as our Noa pinafore (shown below), Thea trousers, and Ness skirt.

Watch the full video tutorial here:

Fitting the Noa Pinafore Sewing Pattern

So, you’ve got your hands on the Noa pinafore sewing pattern - yay! With its princess seams, optional waist adjuster and exposed zip, Noa is a polished style that looks great on so many body shapes. And because the pinafore is designed with shaping built in, it’s also a fab opportunity to practise fitting skills.

The good news? With a few simple tweaks, if you need it, you can get a custom fit that feels chef’s kiss perfect for your body. Let’s walk through some common adjustments you might want to make to your Noa…

What sizes are included in the Noa sewing pattern?

Whether you buy Noa as a printed or PDF pattern, there are 15 sizes included in every pattern, from UK 6-34 / US 2-30 / EUR 34-62. 

Sizes UK 6-16 (TATB sizes 1-6) and UK 18-34 (TATB sizes 7-15) have been drafted, fitted and graded separately to create a better fit. The latter sizes account for a different set of proportions with a fuller bust (dressmaker's D cup as opposed to B cup in the smaller sizes) and to allow a bit more room at the waist.

Of course, this is just a starting point. You may want to alter the pattern to get a more bespoke fit tailored to your unique body shape. Keep reading...

How to make a Full Bust Adjustment (FBA) on a princess seam bodice

Ever tried on a me-made dress or top, only to find it pulling across your bust, riding up at the waist, gaping awkwardly at the armholes, or sagging at the upper chest and shoulders? Don’t worry, you haven’t done anything wrong. Your pattern might just need a full bust adjustment (AKA an "FBA").

A full bust adjustment is a pattern alteration that adds room where you need it most, around the fullest part of your bust, while keeping the rest of the garment fitting nicely. If you’ve done an FBA before on a darted or dartless bodice, you might be wondering, "What about princess seams?".

That’s exactly what we’re covering here - how to do an FBA on a bodice with princess seams - those long, curved seams running over the bust instead of darts.

We’re demonstrating on our Noa pinafore dress sewing pattern. You can use the same method on other sewing patterns with princess seams, such as the Rosa shirt + dress.

Say Hello to the Noa Pinafore Sewing Pattern!

Introducing Noa – A pinafore sewing pattern with a modern twist

Looking for a new sewing project to update your handmade wardrobe? Meet Noa, the pinafore with a polished silhouette and modern details that will quickly become a year-round fave. With a princess seam bodice, exposed zip and optional D-ring waist adjuster, Noa blends classic lines with contemporary style.

Designed for improvers - it’s a rewarding sew that you’ll be proud to wear on repeat.

Available in printed and PDF + projector formats, in sizes UK 6–34 / US 2–30 / EUR 34–62.

GET THE NOA SEWING PATTERN

Noa pinafore pattern design details

Here’s what makes the Noa pinafore sewing pattern a project you (and your wardrobe!) will love:

• Semi-fitted silhouette, subtly shaped with princess seams and waist darts 
• High waistline with optional D ring adjuster at the back for a customisable fit 
• Exposed zip front opening 
• Choice of round neck or V neck, finished with an all-in-one facing 
• Choice of mini or knee-length hemline 
• Award-winning photo-rich instructions to guide you every step of the way