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How to Remove Shoulder Pads from a Dress

Published in Garment Alteration 3 mins read

Removing shoulder pads from a dress typically involves accessing them through the lining and carefully detaching them. This simple process can alter the silhouette and feel of your garment.

Understanding the Process

Shoulder pads are often sewn or tacked into the shoulder seam area, usually between the outer fabric and the lining. To remove them without damaging the dress, you'll need to access this inner layer. The most common method, as outlined in the reference, involves creating a small opening in the lining to reach the pads.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Shoulder Pads

Based on the process described in the reference (Source: nostalgiaprovidence.com/remove-shoulder-pads/), here's how you can remove shoulder pads from a dress:

  1. Locate the Shoulder Pads:
    • First, feel your garment around the shoulder pads. Gently manipulate the fabric from the outside to understand exactly where the pads are positioned and how they might be attached.
  2. Examine the Lining:
    • Now, examine the inside of your garment and see where the lining is attached (the reference mentions examining where the lining is attached to the "jacket," but the principle applies to a dress). Look for seams where the lining meets the outer fabric, particularly around the armscye (armhole) or neckline. You'll need to make a small cut in this area.
  3. Create an Opening in the Lining:
    • Carefully, take an xacto, seam cutter, or scissors and cut from the center of the area identified in step 2. Make a small incision, just large enough to fit your hand through. Start small; you can always make it slightly bigger if needed.
    • Tools:
      • Seam ripper (ideal for controlled cuts)
      • Small sharp scissors
      • X-acto knife (use with extreme caution)
  4. Access and Remove the Pads:
    • Slide your hand through the hole and find the shoulder pads. They are usually loosely tacked with a few stitches or threads.
    • Gently feel around the edges of the pad to find the stitches holding it in place. Use your seam ripper or small scissors to carefully cut only these attaching threads.
    • Once the threads are cut, the shoulder pad should be free. Gently pull it out through the opening you made in the lining.
    • Repeat the process for the shoulder pad on the other side.

After Removal

Once both pads are out, you have a few options:

  • Leave the Lining Opening: If the opening is small and in an inconspicuous spot (like under the arm), you might choose to leave it as is, especially if the dress is lined.
  • Hand Stitch the Opening: For a neater finish, you can hand stitch the small opening in the lining closed using a needle and thread that matches the lining fabric. A simple whipstitch or slip stitch works well.

Removing shoulder pads can significantly change the drape and style of your dress. Take your time and work carefully to avoid damaging the fabric or lining.