Many people want to customize their denim jeans, but don’t want to invest in a sewing machine. Customization can come in the form of patterned cuffs, dyes and of course, hems. Hems can be tricky when done without the help of a sewing machine. Here are some tips on how to hem blue jeans without a machine:
Thorough Preparation
Before attempting to hem your jeans, it is important to be careful while measuring. Accurate measurements will help you get the fit that you desire. To hem blue jeans without a machine, you need a tailor’s measuring tape, fabric scissors, an iron, and pattern pins. You can use a special kind of adhesive called fabric glue, but that will compromise the look of your hem, so it is best to avoid it for jeans.
Before starting, make sure that the jeans are clean and wrinkle-free. It is best to iron the jeans before you begin measuring. Once you have decided how much fabric you want to keep, mark the desired length with chalk or a fabric pen. If you have any doubts, it is advised to leave a few extra inches of fabric, so that you don’t end up with pants that are too small.
Hemming
When you are ready to start hemming, fold the fabric along the marked line and stick a pattern pin in the middle. Then turn the jeans inside out and fold along the pin. Do this on both legs, making sure that the folds are identical. Pin multiple times, so that the fabric is secure. You can then iron these folds, so that the fabric is easier to handle.
The next step is to create a hem. Fold the fabric along the crease you have created and then stick a pin along the top. This is the basic form of your hem. The exact details of the hem will depend on the type of look you want. For example, if you want a formal look, then the hem should be sharp and crisp. Or if you want a more relaxed feel, then leave some wrinkle in the hem.
Sewing Without a Machine
After creating the hem, you will need to sew without a machine. Thread a large needle with a strong thread. It is important to choose the color of the thread — preferably a color that matches the fabric. Begin sewing along the bottom edge of the hem, going around several times to make sure that the stitches are secure. It is best to do a few small stitches at a time, rather than one long one.
Once you have sewn the entire hem, you will need to create a strong knot. Pull the last few stitches lightly and create the knot. Make sure that the knot is secure, otherwise it could come loose later. Finally, trim off the excess thread. Your jeans should now be hemmed without the help of a sewing machine.
Fine-Tuning
The final step is to make any adjustments. You may need to adjust your hem by taking out a few stitches or by letting out some fabric. Once you are happy with the length of your jeans, you can wear them confidently, knowing that the hem is perfect.
Advanced Hems
For more advanced hems, you may want to invest in a special type of needle and thread for hand sewing. This can help you create special hems that may be difficult to achieve with a traditional needle and thread. You can also use different techniques such as topstitching and edgestitching, which can help create a more professional look.
Safety Measures
When sewing without a machine, it is important to practice safety. Always wear protective eyewear and work in a well-lit space. It is also important to keep your hands and scissors away from the needle. And never leave the needle in the fabric while you are working.
Caring for the Hems
Finally, you need to make sure that you take care of your jeans, especially the hems. To ensure that your hems last long, wash the jeans on a low temperature and dry them inside out. Make sure that you iron the hems after each wash, to make them look neat and crisp.
Professional Tailoring
If you are not sure about how to successfully hem your jeans, it is best to seek the help of a professional tailor. A tailor will be able to quickly and professionally finish your jeans with the exact details that you desire. This option is especially important if you want a high-quality and durable hem on your jeans.
Professional Cleaning
To ensure that your jeans look their best, it is also important to take them in for professional cleaning every six months. This will help them maintain their shape and color. Professional cleaners have special detergents and machines that are designed specifically to clean and treat denim fabric. Making sure that your jeans are regularly cleaned and maintained can help them last for many years.
Prolonging the Life of Your Jeans
Regular maintenance is essential for prolonging the life of your jeans. Avoid washing jeans too often and avoid machine drying. Try to air dry them every few weeks and when possible, spot-clean them with a damp cloth. This will help protect the fabric and keep your jeans looking their best for years to come.
