Tools and Materials Required
Hemming pants is an easy sewing project that can be completed in just a few basic steps with the help of a sewing machine. To begin, you will need the following tools and supplies:
- A pair of pants that need hemming
- Fabric scissors
- Measuring tape
- Iron
- Pins
- Matching thread
- A sewing machine
It is important to start with clean, dry pants. If the garment is wrinkled, you can use the iron to press and remove the wrinkles before you begin.
Measure the Desired Length
Measure the desired length of the pants. To do this, place the pants on a flat surface and measure from the crotch seam to the hem of the pant leg. Once the desired length has been established, mark it with a pencil or fabric marker so that it can be seen when the pant leg is unfolded. Repeat this process for each pant leg.
Quality Control
Bench-testing the sewing machine is also a vital part of the process to ensure good results. Thread the machine correctly according to the user manual and use the machine to make sure the thread tension and stitch width are properly adjusted. The machine should be tested on scrap material similar to the fabric being used before beginning the project on the actual garment.
Cutting the Fabric
Once the desired length has been determined, the fabric needs to be cut to the correct length. To do this, place the pants on a flat surface and fold the pant leg in half from the outside in. Cut along the marked line using fabric scissors. Repeat this step for each pant leg.
Sewing the Hem
To sew the hem of the pants, place the finished edge of the pant leg under the sewing machine foot. Use the machine to stitch a straight line along the unfinished edge. Once the edge has been sewn, the raw edges may need to be secured with a zig-zag stitch, or with fabric glue. Once the edges are secured, trim any excess fabric.
Turning the Pants Right Side Out
To finish the hemming process, turn the pant legs right side out and press the hems with the iron. The edges should be uniform and the thread should be secured to make sure the new hems are strong and secure. Finally, make sure that the garment has the desired fit and drape.
How to Take Care of the Pants
Taking care of the pants after hemming is key in order to preserve the quality of the garment. Firstly, ensure that all threads are cut, otherwise the threads may pluck and pull out of the fabric. Secondly, it is important to follow the garment’s care instructions so that the pants don’t shrink in the washer, fade in the dryer, or become misshapen and stretched out. Finally, avoid putting the pants in the dryer to further help to preserve the shape of the garment.
Tips for Hemming Pants with a Sewing Machine
There are a few tips to help ensure the best possible results when hemming the pants with a sewing machine. Firstly, allow for some extra fabric. This will make it easier to secure the raw edges and adjust the fit if needed. Secondly, when inserting the fabric into the machine, use a narrow zig-zag stitch to secure the edges. Thirdly, use a nylon thread as this is a strong, durable and lightweight thread. And fourthly, use a walking foot attachment to ensure even feeding of the fabric.
Advantages of Hemming Pants with a Sewing Machine
Hemming pants with a sewing machine has many advantages over hand-sewn hems. It is quicker, more efficient and neater since it is easier to make sure the edges are lined up straight. Furthermore, there is less fabric wastage since the fabric can be cut more precisely and the edges can be secured more quickly. The machine also ensures consistent reproducible results, which makes the hem complete more quickly and with precision.
Disadvantages of Hemming with a Sewing Machine
As with any machine-based hemming, there are a few disadvantages of hemming pants with a sewing machine. Firstly, it requires proper maintenance, as a poorly maintained sewing machine will not produce consistent results. Secondly, using the wrong thread can cause problems with the stitching, and the wrong stitch length can lead to the fabric not lying evenly. Finally, hemming with a sewing machine requires more skill, as it requires precision in measuring and cutting the fabric, as well as attention to detail when sewing.
Best Practices for Hemming Pants Sewing Machine
Hemming pants with a sewing machine can be a straightforward and easy process with the right preparation and attention to detail. Firstly, it is important to measure the desired length carefully to make sure it is the right size. Secondly, use a quality thread and adjust the machine settings to match the type of fabric. Thirdly, test the machine on a scrap of fabric to ensure the settings are correct. Finally, do not overlook the importance of using pins to secure the fabric before sewing to prevent puckering, bunching, or slipping of the fabric and guarantee precise alignment.
