Stitching a hem on scrub pants is a skill that requires the help of a sewing machine. Many people find the idea of hemming pants daunting; however, with the right supplies they can achieve great results. Here are some tips on how to make the process of hemming scrub pants easier.
Gather Supplies
To begin, gather the necessary supplies. These include a sewing machine, pins, a measuring tape, fabric scissors, and the item of clothing (the scrub pants). Since most scrub pant fabrics are 100 percent polyester, which is synthetic, you will need a polyester or all-purpose thread. A universal needle with a size of 75/11 or 90/14 will work well. Additionally, it is important to select a sewing machine with the appropriate settings for the project.
Measure and Mark
To begin, measure the length of the scrubs from the waistline to the desired length. Use a straight edge (such as a ruler) to ensure the measurement is accurate. Place pins along the hemline of the pants to mark the desired length. Remember to leave an extra half-inch of fabric after marking the hemline. This will allow for adjustments if necessary.
Fold and Stitch
Now it’s time to begin folding and stitching. Place the pant leg face-down and line the pins up on the folded fabric. Slowly and carefully, fold the leg of the pant inside the pins. Use your hands to mold the fabric into place, then begin stitching. Start at the center of the hemline and work your way out towards the edge. Secure the stitch at the end with a knot.
Check for Accuracy
Once the stitch is complete, check that the hem is even and accurate. Place the pants flat and use your hands to feel for any bumps or unevenness. If there are any irregularities, untie the knot from the previous step and make the necessary adjustments. After the hem is secure and even, finish the pants with a few stitches to reinforce the hem.
Press the Fabric
Press the fabric to get a professional-looking finish. As polyester fabric can melt, you should always avoid ironing directly on the scrub pants. Instead, press the fabric between two pieces of cotton fabric or use a pressing cloth to avoid any damage.
Finishing Touches
Finally, to get the best results from hemming scrub pants with a sewing machine, use a seam finish. This technique makes the fabric more durable and prevents fraying or unravelling. To do this, place the fabric together and stitch an extra line of stitching along the hem. Arrange the fabric so the stitching looks neat and even, then run a second stitch over it. This creates a secure seal that prevents the fabric from unravelling, making it last longer.
For Bigger Adjustments to the Length
In some cases, the desired length of the pant is too far away from the current length. In that case, it is necessary to make bigger adjustments while hemming them. Cut the excess fabric off and fold the hem as usual. When stitching, start a few millimeters away from the edge to avoid any fraying. Adjust the stitch to be slightly wider for extra reinforcement of the hem.
Curls at the Hem
When the hem is complete, it may have an undesirable curl at the edges. This can be remedied by using some interfacing on the fabric. Interfacing is a bonding material which is applied to the fabric before stitching. This prevents the fabric from curling up or unraveling and makes for a much neater look.
Rough Edges
Rough edges on the hem can spoil the look of the pant. To avoid this problem, use a pinking shear when cutting the excess fabric off. A pinking shear is a particular type of scissor which has a blade with “teeth” along the edge. This creates a zigzag pattern along the edge of the fabric which prevents the edges from fraying.
Hidden Stitches
When hemming scrub pants with a sewing machine, make sure to use a thread color that matches the fabric. This will make the stitches blend in and create a more subtle look. Additionally, use a compatible needle size. The needle should not be too thick otherwise it will be visible from the outside of the pants.
Reinforcing for Strength
For added strength, reinforce the stitches with some sewing tape. Sewing tape is a special type of tape which is applied over a stitch in order to make it stronger. This can help to prevent wear or tear on the hem. Alternately, you can use an overlock stitch to create a strong, reinforced seam.
Identify the Right Side of Fabric
To achieve the best results when hemming scrub pants, it is important to identify the right side of the fabric. The right side of the fabric is usually the brighter side and it is usually the side you want to be showing. Make sure to align the fabric so that right sides are together when hemming.
Avoiding Bulkiness in the Hem
It is important to be aware of bulkiness when hemming scrub pants. To prevent this, use a blind stitch technique. This technique means aligning the layers of fabric together, then stitching from inside the fabric towards the edge. This produces an even, neat stitch that doesn’t add any bulk. It is also a great way to hide any stitches and create a professional-looking finish.
Blind Hemming
For a really professional-looking finish, opt for a blind hem. This is done using a special machine stitch, which allows for the stitches to be completely hidden. Start by folding the pant leg with the right side of the fabric facing out, then stitch along the hemline. When the hem is complete, trim the excess fabric and trim the loose threads.
Opting for Professional Assistance
If all else fails, and you still feel unable to hem the scrub pants on your own, there are a few options to turn to. Many dry cleaning services and tailoring shops offer hemming services at an additional cost. When selecting these services, make sure to read customer reviews and ask questions ahead of time to ensure you are getting the best results. Alternatively, you can opt for a one-on-one sewing lesson so you can learn how to do the job yourself.
Proper Care for the Scrub Pants
Finally, invest in proper care and maintenance for your scrub pants. Polyester is relatively easy to maintain, but it is important to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. This may include cold washes, air drying,using mild detergents, or simply dry cleaning.
Safety First When Sewing
When sewing the scrub pants, it is important to work in a well-ventilated area and protect your hands. Use protective gloves to avoid any cuts or burns from the needle. Also, make sure to unplug the machine when not in use or when making adjustments.
Pre-Wash the Fabric
Before you start sewing, it is important to pre-wash the fabric. Pre-washing serves two main purposes: it shrinks the fabric so it fits perfectly, and it removes any dirt or debris from the fabric. This is especially important for polyester fabric, which can discolor or stretch when washed for the first time. Pre-washing also eliminates shipping cuts or creases in the fabric.
