Mastering the Art of Hemming Tapered Pants: A Step-by-Step Guide

AvatarByJill Nammar

Are you tired of buying a pair of pants only to find out they don’t fit your shape perfectly? Perhaps the waist is perfect, but the legs are too long and baggy. Or maybe the waist is too big, but the legs fit just right. Whatever the case may be, having pants that don’t fit properly can be frustrating and make you feel like you’ve wasted your money. But fear not, there’s a solution – hemming tapered pants! In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about hemming tapered pants so you can have a flawless and customized fit that will make you look and feel amazing. Say goodbye to ill-fitting pants and hello to a tailored look that’s all your own. Let’s jump in!

Hemming tapered pants can often be a daunting task for those who are not familiar with garment alterations. The unique shape and structure of tapered pants make it difficult to achieve a clean and professional hem without proper knowledge and techniques. However, learning the proper methods for hemming tapered pants can save you time and money in the long run. In this guide, we will explore the steps involved in hemming tapered pants, as well as provide tips and tricks to achieve a perfect hem every time.

The Importance of Hemming Tapered Pants

Tapered pants have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their sleek and modern look. These types of pants are often made from soft fabrics such as cotton or denim, making them comfortable for everyday wear. However, the downside to these stylish pants is that they tend to come in standard lengths that may not fit your individual height. This is where hemming comes into play.

Hemming your tapered pants not only helps you achieve the perfect fit but also adds a touch of personalization to your wardrobe. A well-hemmed pair of tapered pants can elevate any outfit and make you look put-together and polished.

Moreover, poorly hemmed pants can ruin the overall look of an outfit, no matter how trendy or expensive they may be. They can also create a tripping hazard if they are too long or come undone while walking. Therefore, knowing how to hem your tapered pants is an essential skill that every fashion-conscious individual should have.

Supplies You Will Need

Before we dive into the actual process of hemming tapered pants, it is crucial to gather all the necessary supplies beforehand. This will ensure a smooth and efficient alteration process, without constantly having to search for missing tools.

The supplies you will need include a sewing machine (or needle and thread), scissors, a measuring tape, sewing pins, fabric chalk, and an iron. It is important to have quality tools for hemming as it will result in a better end product.

Preparing Your Tapered Pants

Before you begin hemming your tapered pants, it is essential to wash and dry them according to the care instructions. This will ensure that the fabric shrinks or stretches before you make any alterations, resulting in a more accurate fit.

Next, try on the pants and determine how much length you need to take off from the bottom. Use a measuring tape to get an exact measurement. It is recommended to wear shoes that you would typically pair with the pants when trying them on. This will give you a more accurate idea of how long or short you want your pants to be.

Hemming Techniques for Tapered Pants

There are several techniques you can use for hemming tapered pants depending on your skill level, the type of fabric, and the overall look you are trying to achieve. Here are two commonly used techniques:

1. Sewing Machine Hem
– Start by marking the desired length of your pants using fabric chalk.
– Turn your pants inside out and fold the bottom edge up towards the marked line.
– Pin along the folded edge with sewing pins.
– Using a sewing machine, sew along the folded edge with a straight stitch.
– Trim off any excess fabric and press along the hem with an iron.

2. Hand-stitched Hem
– Start by marking the desired length of your pants using fabric chalk.
– Turn your pants inside out and fold the bottom edge up towards the marked line.
– Iron along this folded line to create a crisp crease.
– Using needle and thread, sew along this crease with small stitches.
– Once completed, trim off any excess fabric and press along the hem with an iron.

Tips and Tricks

– Always measure twice and cut once. It is better to hem your pants gradually rather than cutting off too much length at once.
– Use fabric chalk instead of regular chalk as it can easily be washed off after the alteration is complete.
– If your pants have a zipper, remove it before hemming and reattach it once the alteration is finished.
– For a more professional look, use matching thread to hem your pants.
– If you are unsure of how much length you want to take off from the bottom, try pinning the folds instead of cutting. This will give you a better idea before making any permanent changes.
– Practice on an old pair of pants before attempting to hem your favorite pair. This will give you confidence and help you perfect your technique.

Learning how to hem tapered pants can seem intimidating, but with the right supplies and techniques, it can be a simple process. By following these steps and tips, you can achieve a perfect hem on your tapered pants every time. Remember to take your time and be patient with the process for best results. Happy hemming!

What are Tapered Pants?

Tapered pants, also known as pegged, carrot or cigarette pants, are a stylish and trendy alternative to traditional straight-legged pants. They are characterized by their slim fit around the thighs and hips, which then gradually narrow down towards the ankles. This creates a flattering silhouette that elongates the legs and accentuates the waistline. Tapered pants can come in various lengths, ranging from ankle-length to cropped and can be worn for both casual and formal occasions.

Why Hemming Tapered Pants is Necessary

Hemming tapered pants is crucial for achieving the perfect fit and look. Since tapered pants have a slim fit, they are designed to hug the legs and taper down towards the ankles. This means that they should end at a specific length to create a streamlined look. Without proper hemming, tapered pants can bunch up at the bottom or create unflattering bulges around the ankle area.

Moreover, hemming also ensures that your tapered pants are not too long or too short. Pants that are too long can make you appear shorter and drown your figure while those that are too short can draw attention to your shoes, making your outfit look disproportionate. Hemming your tapered pants will give them a clean and polished finish and elevate your overall look.

Supplies You Will Need

To hem your tapered pants successfully, you will need some essential supplies such as:

– Tapered Pants
– Sewing Machine (optional)
– Scissors
– Ruler or Tape Measure
– Pins
– Needle
– Thread (matching or contrasting)
– Iron

You can also use fabric glue or hem tape if you do not want to sew.

Tips for Choosing the Right Hem Length

When it comes to hemming tapered pants, getting the right length is crucial. Here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect hem length:

– Measure your inseam – Your inseam is the distance from the crotch to the bottom of your ankle. Measure this length and add an extra inch to allow for a hem.
– Consider your shoes – If you often wear heels, consider hemming your pants slightly longer, around half an inch or an inch, to accommodate the height of your shoes.
– Add some extra length – If you are unsure about the exact hem length, leave some extra length when cutting the fabric. You can always easily trim it later after trying on the pants.

Steps to Hem Tapered Pants

Now that you have all your supplies and have determined the right hem length for your tapered pants, it’s time to start hemming. Follow these steps for a professional-looking finish:

1. Try on your pants and mark where you want them hemmed using pins or fabric chalk. Make sure both legs are marked at equal lengths.
2. Take off the pants and lay them flat on a table or ironing board with the inside facing up.
3. Fold up the bottom edge of one leg to meet your pin markings. Use a ruler or tape measure to ensure a straight and even fold.
4. Iron along the fold to create a sharp crease.
5. Pin along this crease to keep it in place.
6. Repeat this process with the other leg.
7. Try on your pants again to double-check that both legs are at an equal length and adjust if necessary.
8. Once you are satisfied with the length, trim any excess fabric but make sure to leave about half an inch for hemming.
9. Fold over this raw edge towards the inside by half an inch, iron and pin it in place.

If using fabric glue or hem tape, apply it along this folded edge before pressing it down and securing with pins.

10. Finally, sew along the folded edge using a sewing machine or by hand. Use a stitch that is invisible on the outside such as a slipstitch or blind hem stitch.
11. Remove any pins and give your pants a final press with an iron.

Voila! You have successfully hemmed your tapered pants to create a clean and polished look.

Other Considerations

– If your tapered pants are made from delicate fabric, consider hand-sewing the hem for a more delicate finish.
– For pants with stretchy fabric, use a twin needle or zigzag stitch to allow for movement and stretch.
– If you are not confident in hemming your tapered pants yourself, consider taking them to a professional tailor for accurate and precise results.

Hemming tapered pants is an essential skill that can elevate your outfit game and make you look sharp and put together. With the right supplies and techniques, you can easily hem your own tapered pants at home. Getting the perfect length is crucial, so take your time to measure and try on the pants before cutting. Remember to always double-check your markings for an even hem length. With practice, you will be able to master this

Q: What is the best way to hem a pair of tapered pants?
A: The best way to hem tapered pants is to first try on the pants and decide on the desired length. From there, mark the desired length with fabric chalk or pins. Then, carefully remove the pants and turn them inside out.

Q: Do I need any special tools to hem tapered pants?
A: While specific tools such as a sewing machine or iron can be helpful, they are not absolutely necessary. A needle and thread will suffice for hand sewing, and household items like a book or rolled towel can take the place of an iron.

Q: How do I make sure my hem is even on both legs?
A: To ensure an even hem on both legs, measure from the ground up to your desired length on each leg individually. Then compare the measurements and adjust as needed before beginning to sew.

Q: Can I alter the original style of tapered pants when hemming?
A: Yes, you can alter the original style of tapered pants when hemming. For example, you can choose to make them more narrow or add a cuff at the bottom. Just be sure to make these adjustments before measuring and cutting your fabric.

Q: What type of stitch is best for hemming tapered pants?
A: The blind or invisible stitch is often recommended for hemming tapered pants as it creates a clean and seamless finish on the outside of the pant leg while securing it from the inside.

Q: How can I prevent my tapered pant legs from unraveling after being hemmed?
A: To prevent unraveling, you can use fabric glue or fray check along the edge of your fabric before sewing your hem. Alternatively, you can also fold over a small amount of fabric twice when sewing your hem to hide any raw edges.

In conclusion, learning how to hem tapered pants may seem like a daunting task, but with the right techniques and approach, it can be easily mastered. The key to achieving a professional-looking hem is to take your time and follow the steps carefully. Begin by measuring and marking the desired length, then carefully pinning and sewing along the marked line. It’s important to remember to try on the pants before making any permanent cuts or stitches to ensure an accurate fit.

Additionally, choosing the right fabric and thread can make a significant difference in the overall finish of your hem. Make sure to use high-quality materials that can withstand frequent wear and washing. If you’re new to sewing or hemming, it may be helpful to practice on scrap fabric or old clothing before attempting it on your favorite pair of pants.

Ultimately, being able to hem tapered pants will not only save you money from having alterations done by a tailor but also give you the satisfaction of creating something unique and personal. With patience and practice, anyone can become skilled in hemming tapered pants and achieve a perfect fit every time.

In addition, understanding these techniques can also apply to other types of clothing such as skirts, dresses, or shorts with a tapered silhouette. The key tips discussed in this guide can be used for various

Author Profile

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Jill Nammar
My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.