Removing the Garter Tabs

Removing the sewn-on garter tabs is tricky business requiring a sharp razor blade and a steady hand. The blade must never come in contact with the fabric of the girdle for obvious reasons. Any nick in the fabric will require repairing. Always approach garter tab removal from the inside of the garment, never from the outside.

Photos below match procedure steps.

  1. Turn the girdle inside out and locate a garter tab. Set up a magnifying glass and strong light so you can easily see what you are doing.
  2. Using a razor blade, lightly cut the stitching.
  3. Spread the garter tab to expose the thread between the layers.
  4. Cut the thread between the layers with a stitch removal tool or the razor blade.
  5. Pull the tab completely apart. As soon as the layers can be completely separated, lift it off the girdle and remove any remaining thread. It should extract easily.