How to Hem Pants with a Sewing Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide

Hemming pants is a common sewing task that can be easily accomplished with a sewing machine. Whether you need to shorten a pair of pants or give them a fresh look, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.

Materials You'll Need:

• Sewing machine
• Sewing thread (matching the color of your pants)
• Scissors
• Measuring tape
• Pins
• Iron
• Ironing board

Steps:

1. Prepare the Pants:

1. Put on the pants and mark the desired hem length with a pin. Make sure the pants are sitting comfortably at your waist and the hem length is even on both legs.
2. Remove the pants and lay them flat on a table or ironing board.
3. Fold the bottom edge of the pants up to the marked pin line and press with an iron to create a crease.
4. Repeat the folding and pressing on the other leg.

2. Sew the Hem:

1. Thread your sewing machine with the matching thread and set the stitch length to a medium setting.
2. Place the pants under the sewing machine needle, with the folded edge facing up.
3. Lower the needle and sew along the crease line, keeping the stitches close together and straight.
4. Continue sewing until you reach the end of the hem. Secure the thread by backstitching a few stitches at the beginning and end of the seam.
5. Repeat the sewing process on the other leg.

3. Finish the Hem:

1. Once you have sewn both hems, remove the pins.
2. Turn the pants inside out and press the seam allowance flat with an iron.
3. Fold the seam allowance back towards the inside of the pants and press again to create a sharp crease.
4. You can optionally sew a second line of stitching along the folded edge to create a more durable hem.

Tips for Success:

• Use a sharp pair of scissors to cut the fabric cleanly.
• Make sure the fabric is smooth and flat before sewing to avoid puckering or wrinkles.
• If you are working with a delicate fabric, use a needle and thread size appropriate for the fabric.
• Practice on a scrap of fabric before sewing on your actual pants.

Conclusion:

Hemming pants with a sewing machine is a simple and rewarding task. By following these steps, you can achieve a professional-looking finish that will make your pants look new again. Remember to practice and experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you.