Are you tired of buying knit pants that are too long or too short for your legs? Hemming knit pants can be a challenging task, but with the right techniques and a little patience, you can achieve a perfect fit. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of hemming knit pants, ensuring that they look professional and tailored to your body.
Materials You Will Need:
– Knit pants
– Sewing machine
– Matching thread
– Measuring tape
– Pins
– Scissors
– Iron
Step 1: Measure and Mark
The first step in hemming knit pants is to measure how much you need to take off. Put on the pants and fold the excess fabric upward to the desired length. Use pins to mark the new hemline around the entire leg. Make sure to measure and mark both legs separately, as they may have different lengths.
Continue reading the article for the remaining steps and learn how to sew and finish the hem for a professional look!
Choosing the Right Hem Length
Choosing the right hem length for your knit pants is an important step to ensure a perfect fit. Different hem lengths can create different looks and affect the overall style of your pants.
1. Determine the desired length:
Start by deciding how you want your knit pants to fit. Do you prefer a cropped length that hits above the ankle? Or do you want a full-length hem that reaches the floor? Measure and decide on the desired length for your pants.
2. Consider the style:
Think about the style and purpose of your knit pants. Are they casual loungewear or professional work pants? The appropriate hem length may vary depending on the occasion and your personal style preferences.
3. Take your body shape into account:
Consider your body shape when choosing the hem length. For example, if you have shorter legs, you may want to opt for a slightly shorter hem to create the illusion of longer legs. Alternatively, if you have longer legs, a longer hem can add balance to your proportions.
4. Experiment and try on:
It’s always a good idea to try on the pants with different hem lengths to see which one suits you best. Use pins to temporarily secure the desired length and walk around to ensure the hem falls in a flattering position.
5. Consider footwear:
Take into account the type of shoes that you plan to wear with your knit pants. If you prefer to wear flats or sneakers, a slightly shorter hem may be more practical. On the other hand, if you often wear heels or boots, a longer hem may work better.
6. Personal preference:
Ultimately, the right hem length is a matter of personal preference. Choose the length that makes you feel comfortable and confident in your knit pants. Trust your instincts and go with the option that you think looks best.
By following these steps and considering various factors like desired length, style, body shape, footwear, and personal preference, you can choose the perfect hem length for your knit pants. Remember, this step is crucial for achieving a flattering and tailored look. Enjoy hemming your knit pants and creating a perfect fit!
Measuring and Marking the Pants
Before you begin hemming your knit pants, it’s important to take accurate measurements and make markings to ensure a perfect fit. Follow these steps:
- Put on the pants and adjust them to your desired length.
- Stand in front of a mirror and make note of where you want the pants to end. This could be slightly above the ankle, at the ankle, or any other length you prefer.
- Using a measuring tape, measure the distance from the bottom of the pants to the desired length. This will be the amount you need to hem them.
- Pinch the fabric at the bottom of the pants where you want to make the hem. Use fabric pins or clips to keep the fabric in place.
- Carefully remove the pants and lay them flat on a table or other work surface.
- Using a ruler or measuring tape, measure the distance from the bottom edge of the pants to the desired length, making sure it is consistent all around the legs.
- Make small marks with a fabric marker or chalk at the desired length. These marks will serve as your hemming lines.
Once you have measured and marked the pants, you are ready to move on to the next step of hemming the knit fabric.
Preparing the Pants for Hemming
Before you can start hemming your knit pants, you need to prepare them by following these steps:
- Wash and dry: Start by washing and drying your knit pants according to the care instructions on the garment label. This will help to prevent any shrinkage that might occur after hemming.
- Try on the pants: Put on the pants and adjust the waistband and rise to your desired fit. Take note of how much length you want to remove from the pants, whether it’s just a small amount or a significant hem.
- Mark the length: Use a fabric chalk or washable marker to mark the desired length of the pants. Start by folding up the hem to the desired length, and then use the chalk or marker to mark along the fold line. Make sure the markings are consistent and even around the entire leg.
- Measure and adjust: Measure the distance from the bottom edge of the pants to the marked hemline to ensure that it is consistent on both legs. If necessary, make any adjustments to ensure the hemline is even.
- Pin the hem: Once you are satisfied with the markings and measurements, use sewing pins to secure the folded hem in place. Place the pins perpendicular to the fold line, about 1-2 inches apart. This will help to keep the fabric in place while you sew.
By following these steps, you will properly prepare your knit pants for hemming and ensure a clean and polished finish.
Pinning the Hem
Once you have determined the desired length of your knit pants, it’s time to pin the hem. Pinning the hem is an essential step in ensuring a professional-looking finish. Here’s how to do it:
- Prepare your workspace: Clear a flat surface such as a table or ironing board to work on. Ensure that the area is clean and free from any obstructions, which may interfere with the pinning process.
- Turn your pants inside out: Flip your knit pants inside out so that the wrong side is facing you. This will allow you to accurately measure and pin the hem without any interference from the fabric’s right side.
- Align the raw edge: Fold the raw edge of the fabric up towards the wrong side by the desired amount. Align the folded edge with the desired length, ensuring that it is even all the way around the pants.
- Pinning the hem: Beginning at one side seam, gently insert pins perpendicular to the folded edge, securing it in place. Space the pins evenly apart, approximately 2-3 inches apart. Continue pinning around the entire hemline, adjusting the fabric as needed to maintain an even and smooth fold.
- Check the length: Once you have pinned the entire hemline, double-check the length to ensure it is consistent from front to back and side to side. Adjust the pins as needed to achieve an even hem around the entire circumference of the pants.
By following these steps, you will be able to pin the hem of your knit pants accurately and securely. The pins will hold the fabric in place and prevent any shifting or unevenness during the sewing process.
Sewing the Hem
Once you have measured and marked your desired hem length, it’s time to sew the hem in place. Follow these steps to sew the hem on your knit pants:
- Prepare your sewing machine: Set your sewing machine to a stretch stitch or a narrow zigzag stitch to ensure flexibility and prevent the seam from popping.
- Fold the hem: Fold the bottom raw edge of the pants up to the marked hemline, wrong sides together. Use pins or clips to secure the folded hem in place.
- Press the hem: Use a warm iron to press the folded hem. This will help create a clean and professional-looking finish.
- Sew the hem: Starting at one side seam or the inner leg seam, begin stitching the hem. Use a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch, stretching the fabric slightly as you sew. Remember to backstitch at the beginning and end of your seam to secure it.
- Trim excess fabric: After sewing the hem, trim any excess fabric close to the stitch line. This will help reduce bulk and prevent the hem from looking bulky.
- Finish the raw edge (optional): If desired, you can finish the raw edge of the hem using a serger or an overlock stitch on your sewing machine. This will help prevent fraying and give the hem a more professional finish.
- Press the completed hem: Finally, give your completed hem a final press with an iron to ensure it lays flat and looks neat.
Now your knit pants have a hem that fits perfectly and adds a polished touch to the overall look. Enjoy wearing your well-fitting pants!
Finishing the Hem
Once you have measured and marked the desired length for your knit pants, it’s time to finish the hem. Follow these steps to achieve a clean and professional-looking hem:
- Gather your supplies: You will need a sewing machine, thread that matches the color of your knit pants, pins, fabric scissors, and a ruler or measuring tape.
- Fold up the hem: Begin by folding up the raw edge of the fabric towards the wrong side, using the marks you made earlier as a guide. Pin the folded fabric in place to secure it.
- Prepare the sewing machine: Set up your sewing machine with a ballpoint needle, as this will help prevent skipped stitches and snags in the knit fabric. Thread the machine with the matching thread and wind a bobbin with the same thread color.
- Adjust the stitch settings: Set your sewing machine to a stretch stitch or a narrow zigzag stitch. This will allow the hem to stretch with the fabric when you put on the pants.
- Start sewing: Begin sewing around the folded hem, removing the pins as you go. Use a slow and steady pace, ensuring that the fabric remains flat and even as you sew. Backstitch at the beginning and end of the hem to secure the stitches.
- Optional: Finish the raw edge: If you want to prevent fraying, you can finish the raw edge of the fabric before hemming. You can use a serger, a zigzag stitch, or apply a fabric glue or fray-check product to the raw edge.
- Press the hem: After sewing, press the hem flat using a steam iron on a medium heat setting. This will help set the stitches and give the hem a clean and polished look.
With these steps, you can easily finish the hem of your knit pants and achieve a perfect fit. Remember to take your time and sew carefully to ensure a professional result. Happy hemming!
Trying on the Pants
Before you start hemming your knit pants, it’s important to try them on and make any necessary adjustments for the perfect fit. Follow these steps:
- Put on the knit pants and secure the waistband.
- Stand in front of a mirror and assess the length of the pants. Pay attention to how they fall on your legs and where they hit on your ankles or shoes.
- If you prefer a shorter length, fold up the excess fabric evenly around the hem. Take note of the desired length.
- If you prefer a longer length, mark the desired hemline with a pin or make a small chalk mark on the fabric.
- Walk around in the pants to test their comfort and to ensure they don’t restrict your movement. Pay attention to any areas that feel tight or too loose.
- If you notice any fit issues, such as sagging, bagginess, or tightness, mark those areas with pins or make chalk marks for further adjustments.
- Take off the pants and carefully measure the distance between the fold or mark and the original hem.
By trying on the pants and making any necessary adjustments, you can ensure that your hemming efforts result in a perfectly fitting pair of knit pants.
Final Touches and Care Instructions
Once you have finished hemming your knit pants, you can add some final touches to ensure a professional-looking finish.
1. Press the Hem: Use a steam iron to press the hem of your pants. This will help flatten and set the stitches, giving your pants a neat and polished appearance.
2. Trim Excess Threads: Carefully trim any excess threads from the hem. This will give your pants a clean and finished look.
3. Try On and Make Adjustments: After completing the hem, try on the pants to ensure they fit perfectly. If you need to make any adjustments, now is the time to do so.
4. Care Instructions: To keep your knit pants looking their best, follow these care instructions:
- Machine wash on a delicate cycle or hand wash.
- Use a mild detergent.
- Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners.
- Dry flat or hang to dry to prevent stretching.
- If using a dryer, use a low heat setting.
- Iron on low heat if necessary, using a press cloth to protect the fabric.
- Store folded or on a hanger to maintain the shape.
5. Show off your newly hemmed pants: Now that your knit pants are perfectly hemmed and cared for, you can proudly wear them and show off your sewing skills!
FAQ:
What tools do I need to hem knit pants?
To hem knit pants, you will need a sewing machine, a ballpoint needle, thread, pins, a fabric marker or chalk, and a pair of fabric scissors.
Do I need to wash the pants before hemming them?
It is recommended to wash the pants before hemming them, as they may shrink in the wash. This will ensure that you hem them to the correct length.
What is the best stitch to use when hemming knit pants?
The best stitch to use when hemming knit pants is a zigzag stitch or a twin needle stitch. These stitches allow the fabric to stretch without breaking the thread.
How do I measure the pants to determine the hem length?
To measure the pants for hemming, fold the pants in half lengthwise and measure from the bottom of the fold to the desired hem length. Make sure to add an extra 1/2 inch for the hem allowance.
Can I hem knit pants by hand instead of using a sewing machine?
Yes, you can hem knit pants by hand if you do not have access to a sewing machine. Use a needle and thread to sew a stretchy stitch along the hemline, making sure to stretch the fabric as you sew.
How do I finish the raw edge of the hem when hemming knit pants?
When hemming knit pants, you can finish the raw edge of the hem by either serging it with a serger machine or using a zigzag stitch on a regular sewing machine. This will help prevent fraying and give the hem a clean finish.