https://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/hem-your-own-jeans • Posted by Annie M.
Hemming jeans to fit is a cinch and you can save bucks on alterations. You really do only need basic sewing skills. Denim is thick and a bit tricky but if you use the right needle it's easy. Also, buy a top stitching thread to match and they can look just as good as the original jean. Here is what I do:
Hemming jeans to fit is a cinch and you can save bucks on alterations. You really do only need basic sewing skills. Denim is thick and a bit tricky but if you use the right needle it's easy. Also, buy a top stitching thread to match and they can look just as good as the original jean. Here is what I do:
Get yourself all of the required materials as on these instructions. Make sure your thread matches your jeans usually Antique Gold. Buy a good quality one like Gutterman.
Decide on the length. At this point it's great to have a friend to mark for you as bending down to measure doesn't always work out that well! Or a full length mirror can help. Pop a couple of pins in and take them off and give them a good press to get the new hem line. Decide what width you want the hem. I usually measure the existing hem (in this case 1.5cm) then double this measurement.
Then measure down this measurement (3cm) from where you pressed your new hem line. Pop another pin at this point.
Cut off fabric where your pin is.
Fold the hem width and press, make sure you press well this will give a neat professional look.
Fold again , press well and pin in place
This is the important part, test your stitch length and tension. When you are working with a different size needle and thread the tension will vary greatly.
Now on the right side of the fabric top stitch all the way around feeling with your fingers for the edge of the folded hem. Pull the fabric gently whilst stitching. Your stitching needs to be a few millimetres from the edge folded underneath. For example if your hem is 1.5cm wide your top stitching will be 1.3cm from the hem edge. Now press again.
There you go, pretty easy and saves you $$.