Some articles of clothing come with a leather belt, which is sometimes too large, even if the garment fits. Altering the belt at home saves money on a tailor and allows you to get a custom fit. Shortening a leather belt may also be necessary if you've recently lost weight. Using leather-cutting tools for altering a belt helps you get a more precise cut. Such tools are available at some craft stores or fabric supply stores.

Measure the size of your waist and add 6 inches -- enough room to buckle the belt. Take your measurement where you want your belt to wrap around your body. For example, if you prefer a lower-riding belt on your hips, wrap the tape measure around your hips in that same lower area.

Cut the leather belt to the desired length. Do this on the end that has the holes punched, to prevent having to remove the belt buckle. Use a pair of leather shears for an even and precise cut. If you prefer a patterned cut such as a curve, use a pencil to sketch the design on the inside of the belt and use leather shears or a razor blade to cut the end of the belt.

Wrap the belt around your body and secure it in place with a clothespin. Use a pencil to mark where the new belt holes will go, spacing them the same distance apart as the existing holes. Punch the holes with a leather hole puncher to create a professional look that mimics those already punched into your belt.

Try on the belt and make any adjustments necessary.