Content

• To step
• Method 1 of 3: Shrink the jacket in a bathtub
• Method 2 of 3: Shrink the jacket in the washing machine
• Method 3 of 3: Have the jacket professionally tailored
• Warnings

Leather jackets are a fashion statement and can be paired with a variety of clothing. They are also ideal for practical purposes, such as protecting your skin when riding a motorcycle or keeping you cool in the warm weather. Unfortunately, this trendy piece of clothing doesn't always fit and can look weird and oversized. Fortunately, there are ways to shrink your jacket by hand washing it in the washing machine, or by taking it to a tailor. Instead of throwing your jacket away or putting it deep in your closet, consider shrinking it for a better fit.

To step

Method 1 of 3: Shrink the jacket in a bathtub

1. Fill a large plastic container with warm water in your bathtub. The plastic tub is necessary because the dye in many leather jackets will run out when soaked in water and can damage the finish of your bathtub. For the same reasons, you should wear rubber gloves to avoid getting dye on your hands.
   • Plastic bins are available online or at most major department stores and hardware stores.
   • Buy a tub that can hold at least 125 liters or one large enough to submerge the entire jacket.
   • You should fill the tank halfway, or at least enough so that you can fully submerge the jacket.
2. Immerse the jacket in the water and rub out the paint. Keep the jacket submerged for five to ten minutes.Some of the dye should naturally run out of your jacket. Rub one sleeve all over the surface of the jacket and allow more of the dye to run out.
   • This process ensures that the leather absorbs more water and promotes shrinkage.
3. Wring the water out of the jacket. When the jacket is done soaking, take it out of the plastic container and wring it out. Make sure to put this on the plastic tray or the dye from the jacket could make a mess. Remove as much water as possible before moving on to the next step.
4. Let the jacket dry on a towel for two days. Lay out a clean towel and put your leather jacket on it. If the towel gets soaked by the jacket, replace it and turn the jacket over so it can dry completely. Store the jacket in a dry place. If you put it in sunlight or another heat source, the jacket will shrink faster but also a lot more.
   • You can also use a hair dryer for faster results. Keep in mind that this can shrink the jacket even more.

Method 2 of 3: Shrink the jacket in the washing machine

1. Wash the jacket in a washing machine. Put your leather jacket in the washing machine and run a regular cycle with cold water. Make sure you only wash the jacket as the colors can run and spoil your other clothes. You don't need to use detergent to shrink the jacket.
2. Wring the water out of the jacket when the washing machine is done. The jacket will still be very wet when the wash cycle is complete. Remove the excess water so that it can dry faster and you can avoid possible damage, such as water stains, to the jacket.
   • Fashion creases also appear when wringing out the jacket.
3. Put the jacket in the dryer and run the cycle on medium high. The jacket will shrink if you put it in the dryer while it is still wet. Remove the jacket from the dryer when it is ready and adjust it. If it is still too big, repeat the process until the jacket fits better.

Method 3 of 3: Have the jacket professionally tailored

1. Search online for leather tailors. Look for nearby tailors who specialize in leather customizations. Leather jackets are difficult to change, so it is necessary to bring in an experienced leather tailor. Many tailors will not be able to make changes to a leather jacket.
   • Read reviews about tailors and choose one with positive reviews.
   • If you are having trouble finding a tailor that specializes in leather, call the store where you bought the leather jacket and ask if they can recommend someone.
2. Visit the tailor and let him take your measurements. Once you find a reputable leather tailor, you can visit his or her studio and ask to take your measurements, even if you already know your measurements, as they may have changed since the last time they were measured.
   • If you are in a hurry, call ahead and make an appointment.
   • The tailor measures your neck, chest, waist, shoulders, arms and wrists.
3. Tell the tailor how you would like the jacket to be tailored. Think about how you want the jacket changed before going to the tailor. For example, you can have shoulder adjustments made, have the sleeves shortened or the waist made smaller. A leather tailor will work to your specifications to change the leather jacket so that you feel comfortable with it.
   • If you are on a budget, ask the tailor for the estimated cost of the changes.
   • If you are unsure of what kind of adjustments you want, ask the tailor for advice.
4. Pick up the finished jacket. Because it is more difficult to tailor leather, you will likely have to wait longer than if your jacket were made of a different material. Your tailor will usually call you and let you know that your jacket is ready for pick-up. Once in the studio, don't forget to try on your leather jacket to make sure it fits you properly. It will take up to three weeks depending on the number of adjustments the tailor has to make.
   • If you wear your leather jacket when riding a motorcycle, make sure you have alternative protective gear.
   • Changes to leather vary in price, but typically cost between $ 100 and $ 300.
   • It is customary to tip tailors.

Warnings

• Soaking or machine washing a leather jacket can cause fading and water spots.
• There is no way to say accurately how much the leather jacket will shrink when you wash it or soak it.
• If you wear the jacket while it is still wet, the dye may run on your clothing.