Modify a rounded hem to a straight hem

You might think why would I want to do that? And I wouldn't blame you, I love me a rounded hem too, but sometimes the fabric dictates it like my stripy fabrics with tassels on one end.

One thing to keep in mind is how the sides go down to the hem. If it's more or less straight from the waist to the hem, then it's just a matter to find the desired length and draw a straight line across. But if it tapers out like in this pattern:

Then you need to think a bit differently, but it's still very simple...

Here's what to do:
- Make a marking at the side seam where the highest bust point is on the front piece and at the corresponding point on the back piece.

- Draw a line from that point parallel to the center front/back seam all the way down to the hem, and fold or cut away the excess.

- Now find the correct length for your garment and draw a line across the pattern pieces that is perpendicular to the center front/back and side seams.

Note that this method might not work if you want the garment to go beyond the hips, make sure the pattern is wide enough to accommodate your hips in such case 😊.