How to Hem Pants

Steps

1. 1. Measure and Mark Where You Want Them

   Put the pants on with the shoes you'll wear most. Mark the outside seams at the length you want.

   Tip: Mark both outside seams so if one rubs off you still have a reference.

   

2. 2. Mark the Seam Allowance

   You need a half-inch hem that folds back twice. From your finished-length line, measure down half an inch and mark it.

   

3. 3. Cut the Excess Fabric

   Cut along that bottom line with sharp scissors. Keep it as straight as you can.

   Tip: Sharp scissors make a huge difference on denim. Dull ones will chew up the edge.

   

4. 4. Fold and Pin the First Turn

   Fold the fabric up half an inch along your first mark. Pin it in place as you go around the leg.

   

5. 5. Fold and Pin the Second Turn

   Roll it up one more time so the raw edge is hidden inside the fold. The bottom of the pant leg becomes your guide since it should line up with your finished-length mark.

   Tip: Don't stretch the fabric while pinning, especially with stretch denim. It'll pull the leg out of shape.

   

6. 6. Pick Your Thread and Set Stitch Length

   Match the thread to the original stitching color if you want it to blend, or go with something close. For stretchy denim, set your stitch length to about 3.5 or 4 so the thread has room to move with the fabric.

   

7. 7. Sew the Hem

   Stitch just under half an inch from the bottom edge to catch all the folded fabric. Pull pins out as you reach them.

   Tip: Keep checking that you're not accidentally sewing through the other side of the leg. Easy to do on skinny jeans.

   

8. 8. Finish Up

   Cut the thread, pull the pants off the machine, and check your work. Press the hem flat with an iron if you want a crisp finish.