Materials Required
Hemming pants with a sewing machine blind stitch is both a simple and convenient DIY project. Before getting started, you’ll need to gather some materials. These include:
- A pair of pants
- Thread that matches the fabric of the pants
- Scissors
- A sewing machine
- An iron and ironing board
- A tailor’s chalk or erasable marker
Once you’ve collected the items, you are ready to begin!
Measure and Mark the Hem
Put your pants on and measure to figure out the desired length. Mark this measurement with a tailor’s chalk or an erasable marker. Next, take the pants off and place them on the ironing board, inside out, to make sure all of the seams are smooth. Make sure the marker or chalk line is even across the entire length of the pant leg.
Sewing the Pant Hems
Set the sewing machine’s stitch length to a short stitch and select a blind stitch. Place the fabric of the pants on the machine’s bed with the right side of the fabric facing up. Then, lower the presser foot onto the fabric and guide it along the line you previously marked. Take your time and move slowly, as this will help keep the stitch neat and even. Once the entire hem is finished, remove the pants and trim any excess threads.
Iron the Hem
Fold the hem with right sides together, and then press the hem in place with a hot iron. This will help make sure that the hem is secure and tidy.
Finishing Up the Hem
Finally, stitch the inner side of the hem with the same blind hem stitch. This will help keep the hem in place and ensure the longevity of the garment. When you’re finished, trim any excess threads and give it one more press with an iron.
Simple Tips
If you have trouble keeping the fabric straight while sewing, you can use tape to secure it in place. If you don’t have a hem foot for your sewing machine, you can use a zipper foot. You can also purchase a hem foot from fabric stores, tailors, and online retailers.
When choosing the fabric and thread for your pants, it’s important to choose the same type of fabric and a thread that matches the color of the fabric. This will help ensure that your hemming job looks neat and professional.
Expert Advice
Sewing expert Mary Hensley states “Hemming pants with a sewing machine is not as difficult as it may seem. The key is to take your time and measure twice. Once you have all the materials you need, it should only take around 15 minutes of your time.”
Tips to Avoid Mistakes
To avoid making mistakes when hemming your pants, start by taking the correct measurements. Measure the length of the pants with you wearing them, and then measure twice more before you begin to sew. It’s also important to ensure that the fabric you are working with is smooth and flat on the machine’s bed. Finally, take your time when sewing so that you can create a neat and tidy hem.
Quality of Materials Used
It’s also important to use high quality materials for your project. The fabric should be the same weight and type as the fabric of the pants and the thread should match the color of the fabric. If you use the wrong type of fabric or thread, the hem may not look as good or may not last as long.
Using the right materials is especially important when working with lightweight fabrics, as they tend to be more delicate and prone to wear and tear. If you are hemming up lightweight pants, such as linen or silk, make sure to use the correct type of fabric and thread.
Important Considerations
Before attempting to hem any type of pants, it’s important to consider the fabric and the type of pants. Different fabrics and pants require different types of hems, and you should have experience with heming garments before attempting it on more delicate materials. If you are unsure, it is best to seek help from a professional tailor.
Hemming pants with a sewing machine is a simple and straightforward process, but it requires patience and a careful hand. Take your time to measure correctly and choose the right materials, and you’ll end up with a great-looking hem on your pants.
Sewing Machines
When you’re hemming pants, it’s important to use the right type of sewing machine and the correct settings. Different machines have different features, so make sure to read the user manual for detailed instructions on how to use your particular machine. Different types of fabrics will also require different stitch lengths, so make sure to adjust the settings accordingly.
For lighter weight fabrics, such as linen, cotton, and silk, it is best to use a blind stitch as this will create a more discreet and professional look. For heavier fabrics, such as denim and wool, a simple top stitch will work. Be sure to adjust the stitch length according to the fabric and thread type.
Finishing Touches
Once you have finished hemming your pants, you can add a few finishing touches to make them look even better. You can use a fabric sealant or an adhesive to make sure the hem is secure. You can also use decorative buttons or stitching to give your hem a unique and eye-catching look.
Another option is to add topstitching to the hem. A topstitch will add an extra layer of protection and give the pants a more polished look. To do this, use a topstitch foot on your sewing machine and stitch close to the hem. This will help keep the hem in place and provide a neat and stylish finish.
