How to hem your jeans while keeping the original hem
Have you ever found the perfect pair of jeans, only to realise they are just a tad too long? Don't worry! Instead of settling for rolled-up or frayed hems, here's a simple sewing technique to shorten your jeans while keeping the original hem intact.
First, gather your materials: a pair of jeans, sewing pins, a measuring tape, a pair of fabric scissors, matching thread, and a sewing machine.
Step 1
Try on your jeans and fold the excess fabric up to the desired length. Use sewing pins to secure the fold. Make sure both legs are folded at the same length for a consistent look.
Step 2
Measure the length you want to shorten your jeans by, then add an extra inch for a seam allowance. This will be your cutting guide.
Step 3
With your jeans right side out, fold the cut edge up to the inside, aligning it with the original hem. Use pins to secure it in place. Make sure the original hem is fully exposed.
Step 4
Set your sewing machine to a straight stitch and select a thread colour that matches your jeans. Starting at one side seam, sew a few stitches to secure the folded edge to the original hem.Step 5
Continue sewing around the entire leg, following the original hemline and removing the pins as you go. Sew as close to the edge as possible for a clean finish. Backstitch a few stitches at the end to secure the thread.Step 6
Repeat steps 1-6 for the other leg, ensuring both legs are of equal length.Step 7
Carefully cut the excess fabric. Trim any loose threads and give your jeans a quick press with an iron to eliminate any creases.
As you have to be accurate on the line that you sew, please don't be disheartened if your first attempt isn't flawless. Take your time, focus on precision, and soon you'll be a pro at altering jean lengths while preserving the original hem. Happy sewing!
