Tools Needed
Hemming jeans without a sewing machine requires the right tools. In addition to the jeans, you will need a tape measure, fabric scissors, pins, fabric glue, a pair of tweezers, an iron and either a fabric pen or tailor’s chalk.
Adjusting the hem on your own requires some patience, as working with fabric can be an intricate process. If this is your first time trying to hem jeans, it may be worth it to enlist the help of a knowledgeable seamstress.
Folding and Marking the Hem
Once you’ve gathered all of the necessary tools, you can begin the process. Put on the jeans and fold up the hem to the desired length. Fold the jeans until the cuff reaches where you would like the new hem to be.
Pin the cuff in place, then try the jeans on once more and mark them with chalk or a fabric pen. After removing the jeans, use the tape measure and check the length from the bottom of the original hem. This will ensure the jeans are even and an even cuff can be created.
Using fabric scissors, cut off the excess fabric at the original hemline. Be sure to leave a bit of fabric so your work won’t fray.
Ironing the Hem
Now, turn the cuff over and use a hot iron to press down the cuff where it has been created.
If there are any strings or loose wisps of threads present, be sure to use tweezers to remove them.
Setting the Glue
Starting from one corner, begin to apply the fabric glue to the inside of the hem. Make sure to apply to both sides and allow it to settle for 15 minutes.
Continue to apply the glue carefully around the rest of the jeans and make sure to apply enough glue along the entire hemline.
Once the fabric glue is settled, carefully press down the hem and smoothen any uneven edges.
Letting It Dry
Now, you can either set the jeans aside to dry or carefully use the iron on a low setting to speed up the drying process. Most fabric glue takes around 12-24 hours to completely dry.
Be sure to save the product directions, so you’ll know what the necessary drying time is in the future. Once the jeans are completely dry, you can wear them and show off your new hems to friends and family.
Tips
When hemming jeans without a sewing machine, it is important to remain patient. Also, be sure to use the iron to press down the hems without ironing them too much. Burning the fabric can create a poor stitch and lead to a weak hemline.
If possible, avoid using glue to hem your jeans. Hand sewing is much stronger and the hem will last much longer. Additionally, if a mistake is made, it can be quickly undone and re-sewn.
Alternatives to Hemming Jeans
One alternative to hemming your own jeans is to purchase them pre-hemmed. This allows for a uniform finish without the hassle of ironing and gluing. It is also easier to make a statement with fashion trends, as the hem is already in place and ready to be worn.
Another option is to purchase self-hemming fabric tape. This is available at most fabric stores and can be used to easily adjust the hem of your jeans in a pinch. This is a great option for those who are not very comfortable with hemming themselves and need a quick solution.
Hemming Jeans with Patches
Patches are a great way to give your denim a unique look and express your personal style. If your jeans are a bit too long or you would like to add a bit of flare, consider adding some patches. Iron-on patches are available at most fabric stores and make it easy to jazz up the style of your jeans.
Moreover, patches can also be used to cover rips or other damage to denim jeans, giving them a second life. You can even make your own patches to give your jeans a truly unique look.
Hemming Jeans with Fraying Technique
This technique is not so common, but it gives an effortless stylish and modern look. Simply finish your desired hem length without any extra fabric and give it a raw and frayed look. This can be done with scissors or an electric trimmer for a more consistent look.
If you would like a slightly neater edge, you can use glue to help the fraying process. Here, fabric glue binds the threads together and prevents them from fraying further.
Adding a Stud Feature
If you want to show off at a party, adding a stud feature to your hems is the best way to get attention. There are several studs available in the market, adjust the chosen ones in a way so that it gives a unique look to your jeans. Be sure to use a proper adhesive or else the studs can get dislodged.
Lastly, take a pair of sturdy scissors and cut the extra fabric which remains right at the hem line. This technique gives a punk rock look to your jeans!
Other DIY Artistic Techniques
DIY jeans is another great way to customize your denim without spending too much money. You can dye your own jeans with a special dye, paint them with a custom design, distress them using sandpaper, or add patches of cotton or corduroy fabric.
Another popular method is to use pumice stones. These stones help give jeans their vintage, worn-out look. For a truly unique look, try using bleach or attaching patches of leather or fabric.
Conclusion
Hemming jeans without a sewing machine requires the right tools and a lot of patience. There are several methods to adjust the hems of jeans, from using simple tools such as a fabric pen and fabric glue to getting creative with artistic techniques. Whichever technique you choose, be sure to practice it on an old pair of jeans first.
