Hemming pants is a common sewing task that can be done by hand or with a sewing machine. If you’ve never hemmed pants before, don’t worry – it’s not as difficult as it may seem. With a little patience and practice, you’ll be able to hem pants like a pro. In this article, we’ll show you how to hem pants on a sewing machine, step-by-step. Before you begin, you’ll need a few supplies: pants that need to be hemmed, a sewing machine, thread, a needle, scissors, and an iron.
First, you’ll need to measure the length of the pants and determine how much you need to hem them. To do this, put on the pants and mark the desired length with a pin or chalk. Then, take off the pants and measure the distance from the bottom of the pants to the mark you made. This is the amount of fabric you’ll need to fold up and hem.
Once you know how much you need to hem the pants, you can start sewing. Fold up the bottom of the pants by the desired amount and press it with an iron. This will help to create a crease and make it easier to sew the hem. Next, thread your sewing machine with the thread color of your choice and insert a needle. Start sewing at the side seam of the pants, and sew around the bottom of the pants, close to the edge. When you reach the other side seam, stop sewing and tie off the thread. Finally, press the hem with an iron to give it a finished look.
Gathering Necessary Materials
To embark on the meticulous task of hemming pants on a sewing machine, it is imperative to gather the appropriate materials. Below is a comprehensive list of essential tools and supplies:
Fabric Scissors
Sharp fabric scissors are paramount for precise cutting. Choose a pair specifically designed for cutting fabric, as they will provide a clean, straight cut. Opt for scissors with ergonomic handles for comfortable use during extended periods.
Measuring Tape or Ruler
An accurate measuring tape or ruler is indispensable for determining the desired hem length. A flexible measuring tape is recommended for ease of use around curved areas. Ensure the measuring tool is calibrated correctly and check its measurements against a known reference point for accuracy.
Tailor’s Chalk or Fabric Pencil
Tailor’s chalk or a fabric pencil allows you to mark the desired hemline clearly on the fabric. Choose a chalk or pencil that is easy to see and erase when needed. A thin, pointed pencil provides precise marks, while chalk is more suitable for thicker fabrics.
Iron and Ironing Board
An iron and ironing board are essential for pressing the hem in place smoothly. Use the correct iron temperature for the fabric you are working with, and always test the temperature on a scrap piece before ironing the actual garment.
Sewing Machine
A sewing machine is the centerpiece of this project. Select a machine that is suitable for your skill level and the type of fabric you are hemming. Ensure the machine is properly threaded and tensioned before beginning.
Hemming Presser Foot
A hemming presser foot is an optional but highly recommended attachment for your sewing machine. It guides the fabric evenly through the machine, ensuring a consistent and professional-looking hem.
Preparing the Pants
Before you begin hemming your pants on a sewing machine, it’s essential to prepare them properly to ensure a professional-looking finish. Here are step-by-step instructions to guide you through this crucial step:
Measuring and Marking the Hem
To determine the desired hem length, put on the pants and mark the desired length with a fabric pen or tailor’s chalk. For a standard hem, add an extra 1.5 inches to the marked length to allow for the top stitch and the fold. For a double-folded hem, add 2 inches.
Pressing the Hem
Next, press the fabric along the marked hemline using an iron set to the appropriate temperature for the fabric type. This step creates a crisp crease that will guide your sewing machine while hemming.
Pinning and Basting the Hem
Fold the fabric up along the pressed crease, matching the raw edges. Pin the folded edge in place along the entire length of the hem. If desired, you can also baste the hem with small temporary stitches to secure it while sewing.
Choosing the Appropriate Stitch
Select a stitch on your sewing machine that is suitable for hemming, such as a blind hem stitch, a zigzag stitch, or a narrow straight stitch. Refer to your sewing machine’s manual for guidance on stitch settings and thread tension.
Sewing the Hem
Start sewing the hem by aligning the needle with the edge of the fabric and stitching along the folded edge. Use a consistent speed and stitch length to ensure a neat finish. If possible, sew the hem in one continuous line without stopping or backtracking.
Finishing the Hem
Once the hem is sewn, remove the pins or basting stitches. Press the hem again to set the stitches and create a sharp crease. For a double-folded hem, fold the raw edge under once more and press before sewing again.
Measuring and Marking the Hemline
Measuring and marking the hemline accurately is crucial for a professional-looking hem. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure precision:
Determining the Hem Length
- Put on the pants and stand in front of a mirror.
- Measure the desired hem length from the floor to the point where you want the pants to end.
- Add an extra 1-2 inches (2.5-5cm) for the fold and seam allowance.
Marking the Hemline
- Turn the pants inside out and fold them along the crease where you want the hem to be.
- Use a ruler and fabric chalk or pencil to draw a line along the folded edge.
- Mark the hem allowance by measuring and drawing a second line parallel to the first line, according to the desired hem length.
Pinning the Hem
- Fold the hem up along the second marked line and pin it in place along the seam allowance.
- Ensure that the pins are perpendicular to the edge of the fabric and spaced evenly about 1-2 inches (2.5-5cm) apart.
- Press the hem with an iron to crease the fold and make it easier to sew.
| Measurement | Description |
|---|---|
| Desired hem length | Distance from the floor to the desired pant length |
| Hem allowance | Additional 1-2 inches (2.5-5cm) for the fold and seam allowance |
| Pin spacing | 1-2 inches (2.5-5cm) apart |
Pinning the Hem
Once you have measured and marked the desired hem length, it’s time to pin it in place. Start by folding the fabric up by 1/2 inch along the marked line. Press the fold firmly with your fingers or a warm iron. This step will help create a crisp hemline.
Next, fold the fabric up again by 1 inch and pin it in place. Make sure the pins are perpendicular to the hemline and spaced evenly apart, about 2-3 inches.
Once the hem is pinned, check the fit and make any necessary adjustments. Walk around in the pants and sit down to ensure that the hem falls evenly and doesn’t restrict movement.
Tips for Pinning the Hem:
Use sharp pins to prevent snagging the fabric.
Insert the pins perpendicular to the hemline to ensure a secure hold.
Space the pins evenly apart to maintain a consistent hem width.
Check the fit of the hem before sewing to make sure it falls evenly and doesn’t restrict movement.
If necessary, adjust the hem length or width by repinning it.
Once the hem is pinned in place, you can start sewing it. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your sewing machine and choose the appropriate stitch and thread for the fabric.
Pin Placement Guide:
| Hem Width | Pin Spacing |
|---|---|
| 1/2 inch | 1 inch |
| 1 inch | 2 inches |
| 2 inches | 3 inches |
Selecting the Appropriate Stitch and Thread
Stitch Selection
When it comes to hemming pants, the right stitch choice is crucial. Opt for a stitch that is both durable and stretchable to withstand the natural movement of the fabric. Consider the following options:
– Straight stitch: A classic choice for hems, the straight stitch is reliable and easy to control.
– Zigzag stitch: This stitch creates a slightly elastic seam, making it suitable for fabrics that stretch, such as denim or knits.
– Double needle stitch: This stitch produces a professional-looking hem with two parallel rows of stitching.
Thread Selection
The thread you use should match the weight and color of the fabric. For most pants, a medium-weight all-purpose thread will suffice. Here are some additional factors to consider:
– Color: Choose a thread that either matches the fabric or blends well with it.
– Strength: Opt for a thread that is strong enough to withstand daily wear and tear.
– Polyester vs. cotton: Polyester thread is more durable than cotton, making it a good choice for fabrics that will be frequently washed.
Thread Tension
Proper thread tension is essential for a secure and even hem. Adjust the tension on your sewing machine according to the thread weight and fabric type. The recommended tension settings will typically be found in your sewing machine manual.
Setting Up the Sewing Machine
To prepare your sewing machine for hemming pants, follow these steps:
1. Select the Correct Needle
Choose a needle that is appropriate for the fabric of your pants. For most fabrics, a universal needle size 70/10 or 80/12 is suitable.
2. Thread the Machine
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to thread the machine with thread that matches the color of your pants.
3. Choose a Stitch
For hemming pants, a straight stitch or zigzag stitch is typically used. For a more durable hem, opt for a zigzag stitch.
4. Adjust the Machine Settings
Set the stitch length to 2-3 mm and the tension according to the fabric type.
5. Prepare the Hem
Fold up the hem of your pants to the desired width and press it in place. Use a ruler or measuring tape to ensure the hem is even.
6. Pin the Hem
Pin the hem around the edge of the pants, taking care not to stretch the fabric. Ensure the pins are parallel to the fold and spaced evenly. Use a separate pin to mark the starting and ending points of your stitching.
| Pin Placement | Description |
|---|---|
| Perpendicular to fold | Incorrect placement, can cause uneven stitching |
| Parallel to fold | Correct placement, ensures a straight stitch line |
| Spaced evenly | Prevents puckering and uneven hems |
| Marking start/end points | Convenient reference for starting and stopping the stitching |
Material You’ll Need
- Pants that require hemming
- Sewing machine
- Thread that matches the fabric
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Iron
- Ironing board
- Pin or stitch markers
Hemming the Pants
- 1. Prepare the pants. Start by ironing the pants to remove any creases or wrinkles. Fold them lengthwise and ensure the inseam is lined up.
- 2. Measure the desired hem length. Use a measuring tape or ruler to measure the desired hem length from the bottom edge of the pants. Mark this length with pins or stitch markers.
- 3. Fold up the hem. Starting from the bottom edge, fold up the hem according to the measured length. Use the iron to crease the fold and ensure it is flat and secure.
- 4. Pin the hem. Once the hem is folded, pin it in place along the inseam and around the outer edges. Space the pins about 2 inches apart.
- 5. Sew the hem. Thread your sewing machine with the matching thread and select a straight stitch setting. Start sewing from the inside of the pants leg, along the folded edge of the hem. Sew around the entire circumference, securing the hem in place.
- 6. Press the hem. Once the hem is sewn, press it down with an iron to flatten the stitches and give the hem a finished look.
- 7. Remove the pins and try on the pants. After pressing, remove the pins and try on the pants to ensure the hem is the desired length. If not, make any necessary adjustments and repeat the sewing process as needed.**
Finishing the Hem
Now that the hem is folded and pressed, it’s time to finish it using a sewing machine. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
8. Optional: Top-Stitching the Hem
For a more polished and professional finish, you can top-stitch the hem. This involves sewing a straight stitch along the top edge of the hem, about 1/16 inch from the folded edge. To do this, use a size 10 or 11 needle and thread that matches the fabric. Start stitching at one end of the hem and sew all the way around, being careful not to stretch the fabric as you sew.
Fabric Type Stitch Length Woven 2.5-3.0mm Knits 2.0-2.5mm Here are some tips for top-stitching the hem:
- Use a light presser foot to avoid marking the fabric.
- Hold the fabric taut as you sew to prevent puckering.
- Stitch slowly and evenly for a consistent finish.
Pressing and Finalizing the Hem
9. Pressing and Finalizing the Hem
Once the hem is sewn, it’s important to press it properly to make it look its best. Here are some tips for pressing the hem:
- Use a steam iron and press the hem from the right side of the fabric.
- Press the hem in sections, working from one end to the other.
- Use a pressing cloth or parchment paper to protect the fabric from the iron.
- Press the hem until it is completely dry.
Once the hem is pressed, you can finalize it by hand-sewing the ends of the thread to prevent fraying. You can also use a fabric glue to secure the hem in place.
Fabric Type Hem Width Lightweight fabrics 1/4 inch Medium-weight fabrics 1/2 inch Heavyweight fabrics 1 inch Troubleshooting Common Hemming Issues
1. Uneven Hem
Possible Causes:
- Incorrectly measured hem allowance
- Uneven fabric feeding
- Improper foot pressure
Solutions:
- Double-check the hem allowance measurements and adjust if necessary.
- Ensure the fabric is feeding evenly through the machine by adjusting the tension settings or lubricating the parts.
- Inspect the presser foot and adjust the pressure knob if needed to achieve a consistent stitch length.
2. Stitches Skipping or Catching
Possible Causes:
- Dull or damaged needle
- Incorrect thread tension
- Jammed bobbin
Solutions:
- Replace the needle if it is blunt or damaged.
- Adjust the thread tension settings until the stitches are smooth and even.
- Remove the bobbin and inspect it for any debris or jams. Clean the bobbin and case if necessary.
3. Fabric Gathering
Possible Causes:
- Excessive foot pressure
- Dull or damaged presser foot
- Improper stitch length
Solutions:
- Reduce the pressure of the presser foot to avoid crushing the fabric.
- Inspect the presser foot for any damage and replace it if necessary.
- Adjust the stitch length to a shorter setting to prevent the fabric from puckering.
4. Puckering
Possible Causes:
- Incorrect stitch tension
- Insufficient hem allowance
- Using a stretch stitch on non-stretch fabric
Solutions:
- Adjust the thread tension settings so that the stitches are neither too tight nor too loose.
- Check the hem allowance and ensure it is sufficient to prevent the fabric from pulling.
- Use a regular stitch setting on non-stretch fabrics.
5. Thread Breaking
Possible Causes:
- Low-quality thread
- Damaged needle
- Burrs or obstructions in the sewing machine
Solutions:
- Use good-quality thread that is appropriate for the fabric.
- Replace the needle if it is bent or damaged.
- Inspect the sewing machine for any burrs or obstructions that could be catching the thread.
How To Hem Pants On Sewing Machine
Hemming pants on a sewing machine is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. With a few simple steps, you can give your pants a finished look and a perfect fit.
1. Measure and mark the desired hem length. Fold up the bottom of the pants to the desired length and press the crease with an iron.
2. Pin the hem in place. Use straight pins to hold the hem in place. Start by pinning the side seams and work your way around the hem.
3. Fold the top portion over 1/4 inch and beat it down. Use the iron to press the hem in place.
4. Fold the hem up again by 1/4 inch press the hem in place.
5. Stitch the hem in place. Use a sewing machine to stitch the hem in place. Use a straight stitch and a small stitch length.
6. Remove the pins and press the hem. Once the hem is stitched in place, remove the pins and press the hem with an iron.People Also Ask About How To Hem Pants On Sewing Machine
What type of stitch should I use to hem pants?
A straight stitch is the most common stitch used to hem pants. A straight stitch is a simple stitch that creates a straight line of stitches.
What size needle should I use to hem pants?
A size 10 or 11 needle is a good choice for hemming pants. A size 10 needle is a standard needle size that is suitable for most fabrics. A size 11 needle is a slightly larger needle that is suitable for thicker fabrics.
What thread should I use to hem pants?
A cotton thread is a good choice for hemming pants. Cotton thread is a strong and durable thread that will hold the hem in place.
How do I hem pants without a sewing machine?
You can hem pants without a sewing machine using a needle and thread. To do this, fold the hem up to the desired length and press the crease with an iron. Then, use a needle and thread to sew the hem in place. Use a small stitch length and sew the hem close to the edge of the fabric.
