A Step-by-Step Guide to Hemming Your Own Pants
Found pants that are perfect except for the length? Learn how to hem them in this step-by-step guide so you can avoid paying extra for a tailor. We all know how hard it is to find pants that fit, and it’s often just one part of the fit that is consistently off. If you’re on…
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Found pants that are perfect except for the length? Learn how to hem them in this step-by-step guide so you can avoid paying extra for a tailor.
We all know how hard it is to find pants that fit, and it’s often just one part of the fit that is consistently off. If you’re on the shorter side, the issue is probably length more often than not. But if you know how to hem your own pants, you can buy a pair that fits perfectly in every way except for the length. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process!
Mark the Right Length
Put the pants on, stand up straight, and mark where you want the pants to fall. This is much easier if you have someone else make the markings (with either pins or fabric chalk).
Take Original Seams Out and Press
Turn the pants inside out and use a seam ripper to remove the original hem. Work slowly so you don’t snag the fabric. Once the old stitching is out, press the fabric flat with an iron. Pressing is very important to ensure clean work for the steps that follow.
Mark Your Seam Allowance
From your original length mark, measure down about 1 to 1.5 inches. That’s your seam allowance, which is the extra fabric that gets folded up to create the hem. Draw a clear line all the way around the leg at that point, and cut off any excess fabric below that line. Use sharp fabric scissors here to keep the edge clean and prevent fraying.
Prepare Your Machine
Before you sit down to sew, take a few minutes to make sure your equipment is ready. If your sewing machine has been sitting in a closet for a while, make sure you’re up to date on sewing machine maintenance. Your machine must be clean and properly threaded if you want to produce even stitches and a professional finish.
Fold and Press the Hem
Fold the fabric up to your length mark, then fold it again along your seam allowance line. Press both folds firmly with an iron. Then, pin the hem in place all the way around, spacing the pins about every inch or so.
Sew the Hem
Sew around the hem close to the folded edge, removing pins as you go. Keep your stitch line straight and your speed steady. When you complete the loop, backstitch a few stitches to secure the end. Trim any loose threads, then press the hem one more time from the outside to set the stitching and give it that clean, retail-quality look.
Check the Fit
Now it’s time for the fun part! Turn the pants right side out and see how they fit. Walk around, sit down, go up stairs, and so forth. The hem should hold its shape and fall where you want it.
Get to Hemming
Hemming your own pants puts you in control of how your clothes fit, and we hope this step-by-step guide has made the process clear for you. With the right tools and a little patience, your pants will look like they came back from a professional tailor.
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