Materials Needed for Hemming
Hemming pants with a handheld sewing machine requires the right tools and materials to get the job done right. To begin, you will need pant fabric, scissors, tailor’s chalk, pins, straight pins, fabric marker, tailor’s tape measure, and a handheld sewing machine. You may also want to purchase some pressing tools such as an iron, steam presser, or press cloth.
Before you begin, you will want to select the fabric for your pant fabric to be sure that it is of good quality and that it has a good drape ‐ one that will hang properly along your leg. You will also want to choose a size and color that is suitable for your purpose. After selecting the right fabric, you can begin to prepare the fabric for the process of hemming.
Hemming pants using a handheld sewing machine is a great option because it is a fast and easy way to get the job done. However, it is important to take the proper measurements and use the correct tools to ensure that your pants are hemmed properly. Begin by first measuring the bottom of your pants with tailor’s tape measure. Make sure to measure along the bottom edge, allowing for a 1/2-inch hem.
Trimming and Marking
Once you have taken the measurements, it is time to begin trimming and marking. Using the tailor’s chalk and tailor’s pins, mark the bottom of your pants at the desired width, which should be 1/2-inch wider than the measurement you took. This will be your guide for trimming the fabric. Having the tailor’s pins will help keep the fabric in place for marking and for cutting. Once the fabric is marked, you can begin to cut the fabric. Be sure to use sharp scissors and keep the fabric as flat as possible while trimming. Be careful not to cut too close to the tailor’s pin when cutting.
Prepare and Iron the Hem
After trimming off the excess fabric, it is time to prepare the area for hemming. Make sure the edges of the fabric are even and smooth. Using an iron, press the 1/2-inch hem that you marked into place. Using the iron will make it easier to work with the fabric. It will also make it easier when you begin to sew the hem. Make sure the fabric is pressed evenly and that no wrinkles are present. This will ensure that the hem is sewn properly.
Sewing the Hem
Once the fabric is prepared, it is time to begin sewing. Using the handheld sewing machine, start at the top of the hem and sew down the length of the hem. Be sure to keep the fabric flat and steady as you sew. If necessary, you can use pins to keep the fabric in place. Be sure to sew slowly and evenly for best results. As you sew, be sure to backstitch at the start and the end of the hem. This will ensure that the stitches do not come undone.
Completing the Hem
Once the hem is sewn, it is time to complete the process. To complete the hem, you will need to press the fabric again. Using an iron or steam presser, press the hem into place. Make sure the fabric is smooth and that no wrinkles are present. This will help to ensure that the hem looks even and professional.
Finishing Touches
The last step in hemming your pants with a handheld sewing machine is to make sure that all the threads are cut and secured. Use the scissors to carefully trim the excess threads. You can also use a fray check solution to secure the threads and to ensure that they do not come undone. And, you’re done! You now have perfectly hemmed pants ready to wear.
Additional Tips for Hemming with Handheld Sewing Machine
When hemming pants with a handheld sewing machine, there are few additional tips to keep in mind. For example, if you are short on time, iron-on interfacing can be used to create hems. This material is an adhesive that is applied directly to the hem and then pressed into place, making the process of hemming very quick and easy. Additionally, if your pants will be subject to a lot of wear and tear, it is recommended that you use a serger machine to hem your pants. A serger machine will provide a more professional finish and will help to secure the hem better, ensuring the longevity of your pants.
Conclusion
Hemming pants with a handheld sewing machine is easy and fast when you have the right materials and tools. Be sure to measure properly and to use the correct tools to get the best results. With a little bit of time and patience, you can be hemming your own pants in no time. Hemming your own pants will save you time and money, and help you create a unique look that is all your own.
