Hemming pants on a sewing machine can be a daunting task but with the right tools and techniques you can easily accomplish it. It requires basic sewing knowledge and patience as it is a detailed technique. The following steps provide the basics on how to easily sew hems on pants.
Firstly, you will need to prepare the pant for hemming. It is important that the hem of the pant is even and not frayed. This can be done either with a rotary cutter or scissors. Trim the pant legs to the desired hem length by measuring the length of the pant leg and adding 1/2 inch for a double-folded hem.
Secondly, mark the hem of the pant. Use a fabric chalk or marking pen to draw lines on the inside of the pant leg, 1/2 inch above the finished hem line. This will help guide the sewing machine while keeping the hem even.
Thirdly, press the hem. Pre-pressing the hem before sewing helps make the hem look smooth and professional. Place the pants separate on the ironing board and fold the bottom edge of the pant leg under 1/2 inch. Then press the hemline with a hot iron. Make sure to move the iron back and forth slowly to ensure a crisp fold.
Fourthly, thread the machine and set the correct stitch length. A straight stitch is the most suitable for hemming. Make sure to use a type of thread such as polyester or cotton-wrapped polyester specifically made for the intended fabric. Set the stitch length to a medium or long stitch.
Fifthly, start sewing the hem. Start sewing at the bottom of the pants, which is the inside of the fold and back stitch a few stitches. Then begin to sew along the folded hem, using the marker line as a guide. As you reach the end of the hem line back stitch to secure the thread.
Sixthly, finish the hem. To give the pants a professional look, it is important to press the hem after sewing. Place the pant on the ironing board and press the hem with a hot iron. Make sure to move the iron back and forth slowly while pressing the hem to prevent it from puckering.
Lastly, check the hem. Make sure to double check the hem to make sure it is even and matches the other pant leg. If necessary, you can use a seam ripper to make minor adjustments. Congratulations, you have successfully hemmed the pants!
Slash Pockets
Slash pockets can be sewn on pants using the same techniques as hemming. Firstly, mark the pocket placement on each pant leg with a fabric pen or chalk. Secondly, press the edge of the pocket piece under 1/2 inch, then topstitch from the edge of the pocket piece, stitching down to the pant leg. Next, press the pocket in place, inserting the pocket piece in between the folded edges of the pant. Finally, stitch each side of the pocket piece, creating a square on the pant leg. This will secure the pocket in place for a professional look.
Elastic Ankles
Elastic ankles can be used to add detail and style to pants. Firstly, measure the desired width of the pant leg. This will determine how wide the elastic needs to be. Secondly, cut the length of elastic to fit the pant leg. The elastic should be cut with a bit of extra length, as it may be stretched and shrink while sewing. Thirdly, sew the middle of the elastic to the pant leg. Sew the center of the elastic to the bottom of the pant leg. Then, lengthen the stitch length to allow the elastic to stretch. Finally, back stitch and cut off the ends of the elastic.
Pleats
Pleats can be used to add extra style and shape to pants. Firstly, fold the pleat on the pant legs by pressing the fabric about 1/4 inch under. This will create the pleat. Secondly, press the fabric with a hot iron to secure the pleat in place. Then, pin the pleat in place. Make sure to use multiple pins around the pleat. Thirdly, top-stitch the pleat from the outside. Make sure to back-stitch at the start and end of the stitch line for extra security. Finally, press the pleat with a hot iron one last time for a neat, professional look.
Patch Pockets
Patch pockets are a great way to add an element of style to pants. Firstly, measure the desired size of the pocket. Then, cut out the pocket piece with a rotary cutter or scissors. When cutting, it is important to remember to add a 1/2 extra inch to the measurements of the pocket piece as a seam allowance. Secondly, press the edges of the pocket piece under 1/2 inch. Then put the pocket piece in place and pin to the pant leg. Thirdly, stitch around the pocket piece. Top-stitch the pocket piece on the right side starting from the outside of the pocket. Make sure to back-stitch when starting and ending. Finally, press the pocket in place for a neat look.
