Hemming your own jeans can be a daunting task and often leave you with a sloppy result. Without the right technique, it can look as if you’ve just cut the jeans to size, instead of creating a smooth, professional hem. Fortunately, with a few simple techniques and some practice, it’s easy to make your own original hems on jeans, even without a sewing machine.
Tools You Need
To hem jeans without a sewing machine, you’ll need a few tools. Of course, jeans, scissors, and a ruler to measure the length of the original hem are all necessary. Fabric marking pens allow you to make small notes on your jeans and is great for measuring and marking hems. Additionally, an iron and some thin fabric cloth are very helpful in creating a neat looking hem.
Creating the New Hemline
The first step for any properly hemmed jeans is to create a precise and even new hemline. The best way to do this is to measure the length of the original hem. To measure the length of the original hem, use a ruler or yardstick and measure from one leg of the jeans up to the top of the hemline. To make sure both hem lengths are even on each leg, measure them separately and make a note of the original length.
Once you’ve measured and marked the original hem, the next step is to make a precise new hemline. If you don’t already have one, first measure out the desired hem. Lay your jeans flat on a table and measure the desired length of the new hemline. Using a fabric marker, draw a line at the top of the desired hem length. Make sure to make the new hemline straight and even on both legs of the jeans.
Cutting the Excess Fabric
Once you’ve marked the desired hemline, it’s time to cut off the excess fabric. To keep an even hem, cut off the excess fabric from the backside of the jeans. This will allow you to keep an even length across the front and back of the jeans.
Be careful not to cut too much. You should only be cutting off the excess fabric, not the entire original hemline. After you’ve finished cutting the excess fabric off, make sure to double check that the hem lengths on both legs are even and straight.
Ironing and Stitching
Once you’ve cut the excess fabric off, it’s time to iron and stitch the new hem in place. First, lay the jeans flat on a table and use an iron on low to medium heat to press the new hemline. This will help the fabric to lay flatter, making it easier to stitch.
After pressing the new hem, stitch the new hem in place using a blind stitch. To do this, use an invisible thread that matches the color of the fabric. Make sure to start the stitch at the inner seam of the jeans and pull the stitches tight. To secure them in place, knot the thread at the end of the hemline.
Details to Consider
When hemming jeans without a sewing machine, there are a few small details you will want to consider. The first is the type of fabric and thread you use. Many people prefer to use cotton fabric and thread as they are strong and provide a good hold. Additionally, make sure to dilute the fabric paint before you use it so it doesn’t stain the fabric.
In some cases, you may also want to consider using an adhesive such as a fabric glue to secure the hand-sewn hem in place. This is especially useful if you’re concerned about the fabric fraying. However, if you do choose to use an adhesive make sure to apply it to the back of the jeans, so it’s hidden from view.
Practice Makes Perfect
Creating a smooth and even hem can take practice. The key is to take your time and measure each step carefully. Additionally, using the iron and a thin fabric cloth will help make sure the fabric is pressed flat so that it can be stitched properly. With a bit of practice and patience, you’ll soon be able to create an original hem on your jeans.
Additional Hemming Techniques
In addition to the traditional hand-sewn hem, there are a few other hemming techniques you can use. The first is to use a serger to make the hem. A serger will trim the excess fabric and stitch the new hem in place in one step. This is especially useful if you don’t want to stitch the hem by hand. Additionally, you can use an adhesive hemming tape or iron-on hem patches to secure the hem in place. Both of these options are quick and easy and can be a great alternative to hand sewing.
Considerations for Different Types of Jeans
When hemming jeans, it’s important to consider the type of jeans you are hemming. Different types of jeans, such as those with elastic waists or flared legs, may require different techniques or materials to hem. Additionally, the fabric weight and stretchiness will also affect the type of hem you create. Consider the type of jeans you are hemming and choose the best techniques and materials accordingly.
Using Existing Hems as a Guide
If you are new to hemming jeans, one great way to learn the technique is to use existing hems as a guide. This will allow you to get a better idea of how the hem should look and how it should be created. Additionally, if you are having trouble creating a neat and even hem, using an existing hemline as a guide can be helpful in creating a more precise and even result.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter any problems when hemming jeans, there are a few tips you can keep in mind. One is to use an adhesive such as a fabric glue to secure the hem in place. This is especially helpful if you are concerned about fraying or the hem coming undone. Additionally, if you find the hemline is too long or too short, use a stitch-ripper to take the stitches out so you can adjust the length of the hem.
