How to Hem Pants with Sewing Machine (Guide)

Hemming pants with a sewing machine can be an easy and cost-effective way to alter your pants to the perfect length. Whether you’re a beginner or have some sewing skills, this step-by-step guide will help you achieve a professional-looking hem on your pants. By following these techniques, you’ll be able to easily hem your pants and achieve a polished finish effortlessly.

How to Hem Pants with Sewing Machine

Key Takeaways:

  • Learn how to hem pants using a sewing machine with this step-by-step guide.
  • Save money by hemming your pants at home instead of using a tailor.
  • Ensure a professional-looking finish by following proper sewing machine hemming techniques.
  • Take your time and measure accurately to achieve the desired length for your pants.
  • Enjoy the benefits of a customized fit and a polished hem by using a sewing machine.

Supplies for Hemming Pants

Before you start hemming your pants, gather the necessary supplies. Having the right tools will make the hemming process easier and ensure a professional finish. Here are the essential supplies you’ll need:

  • Pants that are too long (obviously!)
  • Pins to secure the fabric
  • An iron and ironing board for pressing
  • Scissors or a rotary cutter and mat for cutting fabric
  • Tailor’s chalk or a fabric marking pencil for marking the new hemline
  • A needle and matching thread for hand sewing the hem, or any sewing machine if you prefer machine hemming

If you’re hemming jeans, you’ll also need some specific supplies:

  • A heavy-duty jeans needle to sew through thick denim
  • Thread that matches the topstitching on your jeans

For precise measurements and fitting, it’s helpful to have the following additional supplies:

  • A tape measure to measure the desired length
  • A clear acrylic ruler or hem gauge for accurate marking
  • A full-length mirror to check the fit and length

Now that you have all the necessary supplies at hand, you’re ready to start hemming your pants and achieve that perfect fit!

“Having the right supplies makes all the difference when it comes to hemming pants. With the proper tools, you’ll be able to achieve a polished finish effortlessly.”

Supplies Description
Pants that are too long Choose pants that need to be hemmed to the desired length.
Pins Use pins to secure the fabric in place while measuring and sewing.
Iron and ironing board Press the fabric using an iron and ironing board to create crisp folds.
Scissors or rotary cutter and mat Cut excess fabric along the new hemline.
Tailor’s chalk or fabric marking pencil Mark the new hemline on the fabric for accurate sewing.
Needle and matching thread Sew the hem by hand using a needle and matching thread, or use a sewing machine for machine hemming.
Heavy-duty jeans needle If hemming jeans, use a heavy-duty needle designed for sewing through denim.
Thread that matches jeans topstitching Choose thread that matches the color of the topstitching on your jeans.
Tape measure Measure the desired length of the pants.
Clear acrylic ruler or hem gauge Use these tools for accurate marking and measuring.
Full-length mirror Check the fit and length of the pants using a full-length mirror.

Determining the Length of the Hem

When hemming pants, it’s crucial to determine the correct length of the hem to achieve the desired fit and look. The right hem length depends on various factors, including the type of pants, the shoes you’ll be wearing with them, and personal preference. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to determine the length for hemming pants.

Measuring Pants for Hemming

To accurately measure pants for hemming, follow these steps:

  1. Ask the wearer to put on the pants and the shoes they plan to wear with them. This ensures an accurate measurement considering the footwear height.
  2. Using a tape measure, measure the distance from the waistband to the desired length of the hem. This will depend on personal preference and the style of pants.
  3. Mark the measurement using tailor’s chalk or a fabric marking pencil. Make sure the marking is clearly visible and accurate.

By measuring the pants with the wearer wearing the intended shoes, you can ensure the hem is adjusted to the right length to prevent dragging or excessive bunching.

Determining Hem Allowance for Pants

The hem allowance refers to the amount of fabric folded up inside the pants to create the hem. To determine the hem allowance, consider the following:

  • Check if the pants have an existing hem. If they do, measure the width of the original hem and replicate it when creating the new hem.
  • If there’s no existing hem, a common hem allowance is about 1.5 inches. However, this can vary depending on personal preference and the style of pants.
  • Consider the fabric type and thickness. Heavier fabrics may require wider hem allowances to create a clean and secure hem.

Having the right hem allowance ensures the folded fabric is properly secured and prevents the raw edge from fraying over time.

Note: Use the image above as a visual reference when determining the length of the hem.

Once you have measured the pants and determined the hem allowance, you can proceed with pinning and sewing the hem to achieve the perfect length.

Preparation Steps for Hemming Pants

Before you start sewing the hem, it’s important to prepare the pants properly. Follow these steps to ensure a successful hemming process:

  1. Remove the original hem: If the pants have an existing hem, use a seam ripper to carefully remove the stitches. Press the fabric to eliminate any creases and prepare it for hemming.
  2. Pin the pants to the desired length: Have the wearer put on the pants and the shoes they’ll be paired with. Pin the hem to the desired length, making sure to consider any adjustments the wearer wants.
  3. Mark the new hemline: If the pants are too long, use tailor’s chalk or a fabric marking pencil to mark the new hemline. Make sure to measure carefully and double-check the length before proceeding.

By following these preparation steps, you’ll ensure that your hemming process goes smoothly and that you achieve the desired length and fit for your pants.

Properly preparing your pants for hemming can make a big difference in the final result. Taking the time to remove the original hem, pinning the pants to the right length, and marking the new hemline will contribute to a clean and seamless finish.

Sewing the Hem by Hand

Hand-sewing the hem of your pants is a great option, especially for dress pants, as it allows you to achieve a clean finish without visible stitches on the outside. To sew the hem by hand, follow these simple techniques:

  1. Thread your needle: Start by threading a needle with polyester thread that matches the color of your pants. This will ensure a seamless and discreet finish.
  2. Secure the thread: Begin by securing the thread to the side seam of your pants using a knot. This will prevent it from coming loose as you sew the hem.
  3. Start stitching: Take big stitches through the folded edge of the hem, starting from the inside of the pants. Alternate with tiny stitches on the pant leg to secure the hem in place.
  4. Blind hem stitch: Utilize a blind hem stitch technique for a secure and invisible finish. This will create a seamless appearance without visible stitching on the outside.
  5. Continue sewing: Keep sewing until you reach the starting point of the hem. Make sure to stitch at regular intervals to ensure an even and professional finish.
  6. Secure the hem: Once you reach the starting point, secure the hem with additional stitches to ensure it stays in place and withstands daily wear and tear.

By following these hand-sewing techniques, you can achieve a beautifully hemmed pair of pants with a clean and professional finish.

Note: Hand-sewing the hem can be time-consuming, so if you prefer a faster and more efficient method, consider using a sewing machine to hem your pants.

Sewing the Hem with a Sewing Machine

If you prefer using a sewing machine for hemming pants, the process is quite straightforward. After pinning the hem to the desired length, measure and mark the new hemline. Cut off the excess fabric along the marked line. Then, fold the hem up towards the wrong side of the fabric and press it in place.

Using the blind hem stitch on your sewing machine, sew close to the folded edge, ensuring that the zigzag part of the stitch catches the folded fabric. This creates a secure and nearly invisible hem.

By using a sewing machine, you can hem your pants quickly and efficiently. The blind hem stitch is especially useful as it helps create a clean and professional finish. With this technique, you’ll be able to achieve a hem that is both durable and virtually undetectable. Whether you’re hemming dress pants or casual trousers, a sewing machine can be a valuable tool in your sewing arsenal.

Tips for Sewing the Hem with a Sewing Machine

When it comes to hemming pants with a sewing machine, following a few tips can help you achieve a successful outcome with ease. Whether you’re a beginner or have some sewing experience, these techniques will ensure a neat and professional-looking result. Here are some essential sewing machine tips for hemming pants:

  1. Select the appropriate stitch: Before you start sewing the hem, make sure to choose the right stitch on your sewing machine. For hemming pants, the blind hem stitch or a straight stitch is commonly used. The blind hem stitch creates a nearly invisible finish, while the straight stitch offers simplicity and strength.
  2. Adjust the stitch length: To achieve a neat and secure hem, set the stitch length to a medium setting on your sewing machine. This setting will ensure that the stitches hold the fabric securely without being too loose or too tight.
  3. Take your time: Sewing the hem requires patience and precision. Take your time when guiding the fabric through the machine, ensuring that the folded edge stays in place and aligns with the guide on the machine foot. Avoid rushing to prevent mistakes or uneven stitching.
  4. Use a bulky seam jumper: Sewing over thick seams can be challenging, causing the fabric to bunch up or the machine to skip stitches. In such cases, using a bulky seam jumper can help the machine glide smoothly over the seams, ensuring an even and professional-looking hem.
  5. Practice on scrap fabric: Before hemming your actual pants, it’s always a good idea to practice on scrap fabric. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the machine settings and practice sewing straight and even stitches. Once you feel comfortable, you can proceed with hemming your pants confidently.

By keeping these sewing machine tips in mind, you can avoid common mistakes and achieve a perfect hem on your pants with ease. Remember to select the appropriate stitch, adjust the stitch length, take your time while sewing, use a bulky seam jumper if needed, and practice beforehand for optimal results.

Ironing and Finishing the Hem

After sewing the hem, it’s crucial to give it a final press to ensure a crisp and polished finish. Turn the pants right side out and use an iron to press the hem, flattening any wrinkles or uneven areas. Take your time to ensure the hem is even and well-pressed. If necessary, use a pressing ham or a sleeve board to press curved areas of the hem. This step helps to give the pants a professional and finished look.

Now that you’ve completed the sewing process, it’s time to focus on the final steps for hemming pants. Pressing the hem is an essential part of achieving a polished and professional result. Using an iron, you can flatten any wrinkles or uneven areas, ensuring that the hem lies flat and smooth.

Start by turning the pants right side out. This allows you to easily access the hem and apply pressure with the iron. Set your iron to the appropriate heat setting for the fabric of your pants, being cautious not to use too high a heat that could damage the fabric.

Begin by pressing the top of the hem with the iron, applying even pressure along the entire length. Work your way down the length of the hem, pressing and smoothing as you go. Take your time to ensure that the hem is even and well-pressed.

“Pressing the hem is an essential step in achieving a crisp and polished finish. It helps to flatten any wrinkles or uneven areas, giving your pants a clean and professional look.” – Sarah Green, Fashion Expert

If your pants have curved areas in the hem, such as a curved edge at the bottom of a wide-leg pant, using a pressing ham or a sleeve board can be beneficial. These tools allow you to press and shape the fabric in those areas, ensuring a clean and smooth finish. Simply place the curved area of the pant leg over the pressing ham or sleeve board and press with the iron, shaping the fabric as needed.

By pressing the hem, you not only create a polished finish but also help to set the stitches and ensure longevity. An evenly pressed hem adds a professional touch to your pants, making them look well-tailored and stylish.

Benefits of Pressing the Hem
Creates a crisp and polished finish
Smooths out any wrinkles or uneven areas
Sets the stitches, enhancing durability
Adds a professional touch to the pants

Now that you have pressed the hem, you are ready to show off your newly hemmed pants. Whether you hemmed them by hand or with a sewing machine, the finishing touches of pressing the hem ensure a neat and professional result. Take pride in your work and enjoy your perfectly tailored pants!

Benefits of Hemming Pants with a Sewing Machine

Hemming pants with a sewing machine offers several advantages and benefits. Firstly, it allows you to achieve a clean and polished hem without the need for extensive hand stitching. By using a sewing machine, you can save time and effort while still achieving professional-looking results.

One of the key benefits of using a sewing machine for hemming pants is its efficiency, especially when dealing with larger projects or multiple pairs of pants. The machine enables you to stitch the hem quickly and accurately, allowing you to complete your alterations in a timely manner.

Not only does using a sewing machine save time, but it also provides a secure and durable hem. By using the appropriate stitch and thread, you can ensure that the hem withstands regular wear and tear. Whether it’s dress pants or casual trousers, a sewing machine hem delivers a strong and long-lasting finish.

Additionally, sewing machine hemming allows for more precision and consistency in the length and finish of the hem. With the precise control the machine offers, you can achieve evenly spaced stitches and maintain a consistent hem width throughout the garment. This results in a professional-looking hem that enhances the overall appearance of the pants.

In summary, the advantages of sewing machine hemming for pants are:

  • Clean and polished hem without extensive hand stitching
  • Time-efficient for larger projects or multiple pairs of pants
  • Secure and durable hem with the right stitch and thread
  • Precision and consistency in the length and finish of the hem

By utilizing a sewing machine for hemming pants, you can enjoy these benefits and achieve professional-looking results with ease.

Conclusion

Hemming pants with a sewing machine is a skill that can be easily learned and mastered with practice. It offers a cost-effective solution to alter pants to the perfect length and achieve a professional finish. Whether you choose to sew the hem by hand or with a sewing machine, following the proper steps and techniques will ensure a polished result. Remember to take your time, measure accurately, and press the hem for a neat and seamless finish. With these tips and techniques, you’ll be able to confidently hem your pants and enjoy a customized fit.

By understanding the supplies needed for hemming, determining the length of the hem, and preparing the pants properly, you set yourself up for success. Whether you opt for hand sewing or using a sewing machine, the steps are straightforward. Sewing the hem by hand allows for a clean finish, while using a sewing machine offers efficiency and consistency. Additionally, ironing and finishing the hem give your pants a crisp and professional look.

In conclusion, hemming pants with a sewing machine is a practical skill that can save you time and money. By following the step-by-step guide and utilizing the right tools and techniques, you can easily achieve a professional-looking hem on your pants. So go ahead, grab your sewing machine, and confidently hem your pants to the perfect length!

FAQ

How can I hem pants using a sewing machine?

Hemming pants with a sewing machine is a straightforward process. After pinning the hem to the desired length, measure and mark the new hemline. Cut off the excess fabric, fold the hem up towards the wrong side of the fabric, and press it in place. Then, use the blind hem stitch on your sewing machine to sew close to the folded edge, creating a secure and nearly invisible hem.

What supplies do I need for hemming pants with a sewing machine?

The basic supplies you’ll need include pants that are too long, pins, an iron and ironing board, scissors or a rotary cutter and mat, tailor’s chalk, a needle and matching thread or a sewing machine. If you’re hemming jeans, you’ll also need a heavy-duty jeans needle and thread that matches the topstitching on your jeans. Having a tape measure, clear acrylic ruler or hem gauge, and a full-length mirror can also be helpful for precise measurements and fitting.

How do I determine the length of the hem for my pants?

The correct length of the hem depends on factors such as the type of pants, the shoes you’ll be wearing with them, and personal preference. Generally, dress pants or casual pants should be altered so that the back is about 1/2″ above the floor when wearing shoes. However, individual preferences can vary, so it’s essential to have the wearer try on the pants and adjust the length accordingly.

What are the preparation steps for hemming pants with a sewing machine?

Before sewing the hem, it’s recommended to prepare the pants properly. Remove any existing hem stitches and press out any creases for a clean and seamless hem. Then, pin the pants to the desired length with the wearer wearing the shoes they’ll be paired with. It’s crucial to have the wearer try on the pants and make any necessary adjustments before proceeding.

Can I sew the hem of my pants by hand?

Yes, sewing the hem by hand is a great option, especially for dress pants. To sew the hem by hand, thread a needle with polyester thread that matches the pants’ color. Take big stitches through the folded edge of the hem, alternating with tiny stitches on the pant leg using the blind hem stitch. This stitch ensures a secure and invisible finish.

What are the tips for sewing the hem of pants with a sewing machine?

When using a sewing machine to hem pants, select the appropriate stitch, such as the blind hem stitch or a straight stitch. Adjust the stitch length to a medium setting for a neat and secure hem. Take your time when sewing, ensuring that the folded fabric stays in place and aligns with the guide on the machine foot. If necessary, use a bulky seam jumper to sew over thick seams easily. Practice on scrap fabric before hemming your actual pants.

How do I finish the hem after sewing it with a sewing machine?

After sewing the hem, give it a final press to ensure a crisp and polished finish. Turn the pants right side out and use an iron to press the hem, flattening any wrinkles or uneven areas. Take your time to ensure the hem is even and well-pressed. If necessary, use a pressing ham or a sleeve board to press curved areas of the hem. This step helps to give the pants a professional and finished look.

What are the benefits of hemming pants with a sewing machine?

Hemming pants with a sewing machine offers several benefits. It allows you to achieve a clean and polished hem without the need for extensive hand stitching. Sewing machine hemming can be faster and more efficient, especially for larger projects or multiple pairs of pants. It also provides a secure and durable hem, especially when using the appropriate stitch and thread. Additionally, sewing machine hemming allows for more precision and consistency in the length and finish of the hem.

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