Jeans are a wardrobe staple, but finding the perfect length can be tricky. Whether your jeans are too long or you want to give an old pair a fresh look, hemming them is the best solution. In this guide, you’ll learn different ways to hem jeans, including by hand, with a sewing machine, and even keeping the original hem for a professional finish.
Why Hemming Jeans is Important
Jeans that are too long can drag on the ground, get damaged, or make you trip. Hemming ensures the perfect fit, making your jeans look neat and stylish. Whether you prefer a raw edge, a cuffed look, or keeping the factory hem, this guide covers everything.
What You Need Before Hemming Jeans
Before starting, gather these supplies:
- Sharp fabric scissors
- Measuring tape
- Pins or clips
- Sewing machine (if machine hemming)
- Needle and thread (if hand-sewing)
- Iron and ironing board
- Seam ripper (for original hem method)
- Chalk or fabric marker
Now, let’s dive into the different methods.
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How to Hem Jeans by Hand
Hand-sewing gives you more control, especially if you don’t have a sewing machine. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Try On the Jeans and Mark the Length
Wear the jeans with the shoes you’ll pair them with. Fold the hem up to your desired length and pin it in place.
Step 2: Measure and Mark Evenly
Take off the jeans and measure the folded part to ensure both legs are even. Mark the new hemline with chalk.
Step 3: Cut Excess Fabric (If Needed)
If the jeans are much longer, trim the excess, leaving about 1 inch for folding.
Step 4: Fold and Iron the Hem
Fold the raw edge inward (about ½ inch) and iron it flat. Then fold it again to hide the raw edge and iron again.
Step 5: Hand-Stitch the Hem
Thread a needle with strong thread (denim thread works best). Use a blind stitch or whipstitch to sew the hem in place. Knot securely at the end.
Step 6: Press the Hem Again
Iron the hem to make it crisp and professional-looking.
How to Hem Jeans with a Sewing Machine
A sewing machine makes hemming faster and more durable. Here’s how:
Step 1: Prepare the Jeans
Try on the jeans, mark the desired length, and ensure both legs are even.
Step 2: Cut and Fold the Hem
Trim excess fabric, leaving 1 inch. Fold the edge twice (½ inch each) and iron flat.
Step 3: Sew the Hem
Use a denim needle and heavy-duty thread. Sew close to the inner folded edge with a straight stitch. Backstitch at the start and end.
Step 4: Reinforce the Stitching (Optional)
For extra durability, sew a second parallel line.
Step 5: Press the Hem
Iron the hem for a clean finish.
How to Hem Jeans and Keep the Original Hem
Keeping the original hem makes your jeans look professionally altered. Here’s how:
Step 1: Measure and Mark
Put on the jeans and fold them to the desired length. Mark where the original hem sits.
Step 2: Cut the Excess Fabric
Measure 1 inch above the original hem and cut off the extra length.
Step 3: Open the Original Hem
Use a seam ripper to carefully remove the stitching from the original hem, leaving the folded edge intact.
Step 4: Shorten the Jeans
Fold the jeans up to your marked length, tucking the raw edge inside. The original hem should now be at the new bottom.
Step 5: Sew the New Hem
Stitch along the original hemline to secure it in place. Use a sewing machine or hand-sew for precision.
Step 6: Press the Hem
Iron the new hem to blend it seamlessly.
Different Types of Jean Hems
1. Classic Folded Hem
The most common method, where the fabric is folded and stitched.
2. Raw Edge Hem
Leaves the edge unfinished for a trendy, distressed look.
3. Cuffed Hem
Rolls the jeans up once or twice for a casual style.
4. Blind Hem
Hides the stitches for a nearly invisible finish.
Tips for a Professional-Looking Hem
- Always iron before sewing for crisp folds.
- Use a denim needle on your sewing machine.
- Match thread color to the original stitching.
- Double-stitch for extra durability.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hemming Jeans
- Cutting too much fabric before measuring.
- Uneven hem lengths on both legs.
- Using weak thread that breaks easily.
- Skipping the ironing step, leading to a messy hem.
FAQs About Hemming Jeans
1. Can I hem jeans without cutting them?
Yes! You can fold and sew them without cutting, but this works best for small adjustments.
2. What’s the best stitch for hemming jeans?
A straight stitch or a blind hem stitch works best.
3. How much does it cost to hem jeans professionally?
Usually between $10-$25, depending on the tailor.
4. Can I use regular thread for hemming jeans?
No, use heavy-duty or denim thread for durability.
5. How do I keep the original hem when shortening jeans?
Follow the “original hem” method above to preserve the factory finish.
6. What’s the easiest way to hem jeans at home?
Using a sewing machine is fastest, but hand-sewing works too.
7. How do I fix a hem that’s too short?
You can add a fabric strip or lace trim to extend the length.
8. Can I hem stretchy jeans the same way?
Yes, but use a stretch stitch or zigzag stitch to prevent popped seams.
Final Thoughts
Hemming jeans is a simple skill that saves money and keeps your denim looking great. Whether you hand-sew, use a machine, or keep the original hem, this guide covers all methods. Try these techniques and enjoy perfectly fitted jeans every time!
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends who struggle with long jeans! Got more questions? Drop them in the comments below.