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

Attention all fashionistas and DIY enthusiasts! Are you tired of having to settle for ill-fitting knit pants or constantly shelling out money for alterations? You’re not alone. Hemming knit pants can be a tricky and intimidating task, but fear not! With the right techniques and a few simple tools, you too can achieve perfectly hemmed knit pants that will fit like a glove. In this article, we will guide you through the process step by step, so get ready to say goodbye to baggy ankles and hello to tailor-made perfection. Let’s dive into the world of hemming knit pants!

Understanding Knit Pants

Knit pants are a wardrobe staple for many people due to their comfort and versatility. They are made from stretchable fabric that conforms to the body and provides a comfortable fit. These pants are perfect for any occasion, whether you want to dress up or go casual. However, one challenge that most people face with knit pants is hemming them.

When it comes to knit pants, hemming can be tricky due to the nature of the fabric. Its stretchiness makes it difficult to get a clean and straight hemline. But fear not, with the right tools and techniques, you can easily hem your knit pants at home and achieve professional-looking results. In this guide, we will take a closer look at how to hem knit pants and give you tips on achieving the perfect finish.

Preparing Your Materials

Before you start hemming your knit pants, you need to have all the necessary materials ready. Here’s what you will need:

1. A measuring tape
2. Fabric scissors
3. Pins
4. Sewing machine or hand sewing needle
5. Matching thread
6. Iron and ironing board

Make sure you have a good-quality measuring tape as accurate measurements are crucial when it comes to hemming knit fabric.

Measuring Your Pants

The first step in hemming your knit pants is taking accurate measurements of both legs. Start by laying your pants on a flat surface with all seams aligned. Use your measuring tape to measure the desired finished length of your pants from the bottom edge.

Next, measure and note down the current length of one leg from the bottom edge to where you want the new hemline to be placed. Use this measurement as a reference when altering the other leg for consistency.

Pinning Your Hemline

Once you have your measurements, it’s time to pin your hemline. Lay one leg flat on a surface and fold the fabric up to the desired length. Use pins to secure the fold in place, placing them parallel to the edge of the fabric rather than perpendicular. This will prevent the pins from pulling on the fabric and distorting the shape.

Repeat this process on the other leg, making sure both sides are even. It’s essential to try on your pants at this stage and check if you’re happy with the length before proceeding to sew.

Sewing Your Hem

Now that your pants are pinned, it’s time to sew your hem. If you’re using a sewing machine, switch it to a narrow zigzag stitch setting and start at one side seam. Sew along the edge of your folded hemline, making sure not to stretch or pull on the fabric as you go.

If you’re hand-sewing, use a stretch stitch or backstitch for stronger seams. Insert your needle into the folded hem and bring it out about 1/4 inch away from where you started. Continue this process until you reach the end of your hemline.

Remember to remove any pins as you sew and keep checking for consistency in length and tension while sewing.

Finishing Touches

Once you have sewn both legs, trim any excess fabric and iron down your hemline to give it a crisp finish. Ironing also helps set your stitches and gives a polished look to your pants.

If there are any visible stitches on the outside of your pants, gently stretch out those areas while ironing to give them an even appearance.

Alternatives

If sewing is not an option for you, there are alternative methods for hemming knit pants that do not require any stitching. One method is using liquid stitch or fabric glue specifically designed for stretch fabrics. Simply apply a thin line of glue along the folded hem and press it down with an iron. This will create a permanent bond and hold your hem in place.

Another method is using fusible hem tape. Place the tape over the raw edge of your fabric, fold it up, and iron it to melt the adhesive and secure the hem. However, this method may not be as durable as sewing or fabric glue.

Hemming knit pants may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, you can easily achieve professional-looking results at home. Remember to take accurate measurements, pin your hemline evenly, use suitable stitches on your sewing machine or hand-sew with care, and don’t forget to finish off with ironing for a polished look.

With these steps in mind, you can confidently hem your knit pants in no time and add a personal touch to your wardrobe without breaking the bank. So grab your materials and get ready to turn those long-knit pants into perfect-fitting bottoms for any occasion.

Benefits of Hemming Knit Pants

Hemming knit pants is an essential skill to have in your sewing repertoire. It allows you to customize the fit and length of your pants according to your own body type, while also giving you the opportunity to add a personal touch to your clothing. There are many benefits to hemming knit pants, some of which include:

1. Perfect Fit: Most store-bought pants come in standard sizes, which may not fit everyone perfectly. By hemming your knit pants, you can tailor them to fit your specific body measurements, resulting in a more flattering and comfortable fit.

2. Customizable Length: Whether you prefer ankle-length or capris, hemming allows you to adjust the length of your pants according to your preference. This is especially useful if you have trouble finding pants in the exact length that you desire.

3. Saves Money: Instead of constantly buying new pants with the perfect fit and length, hemming allows you to make the most out of the ones you already own. This can save you a lot of money in the long run.

4. Professional Look: Hemming adds a polished and professional touch to your clothing. It gives off the impression that your clothes are tailored specifically for you, making them look more stylish and put together.

5. Adds Personalization: Hemming also gives you an opportunity to add a personal touch to your clothing by choosing different types of stitches or adding embellishments such as lace or trim along the hemline.

6. Fixes Uneven Hems: Sometimes pants can become uneven due to wear and tear or unequal shrinking after washing. Hemming can easily correct these imperfections and give your pants a clean and uniform finish.

7. Enhances Durability: Adding a good quality hem on knit pants helps prevent fraying or unraveling at the bottom edges, ensuring their longevity and saving you from having to constantly repair or replace them.

In conclusion, hemming knit pants offers numerous benefits such as a perfect fit, customizable length, cost savings, a professional look, personalization options, hem correction, and enhanced durability. It is an essential skill to have for anyone who wants to take their sewing skills to the next level and create beautiful and well-fitting pants.

Materials Needed for Hemming Knit Pants

Before embarking on your journey to hemming knit pants, it’s important to gather all the necessary materials. Here is a list of items you will need:

1. Sewing Machine: A sewing machine makes the hemming process much faster and easier compared to hand sewing. If you don’t have access to one, you can still hem your pants by hand using a needle and thread.

2. Serger (optional): A serger is not a must-have but can make your life much easier when working with knits. It will give your hems a professional finish and prevent fraying.

3. Scissors: You will need good sharp scissors for cutting fabric and thread.

4. Ruler or Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements are crucial when hemming pants. A ruler or measuring tape will make it easier for you to get the desired length.

5. Fabric Pen or Tailor’s Chalk: These tools are used for marking the fabric before cutting or sewing.

6. Pins: Pins are used to hold fabric in place while sewing.

7. Iron and Ironing Board: Pressing helps set stitches in place and gives a neat finish to your hems.

8. Hem Gauge or Seam Gauge: This tool helps measure seam allowances accurately.

9.Coverstitch Machine (optional): If you want a professional-looking topstitch along your hemline, then investing in a coverstitch machine might be worth it.

With these materials at hand, you are well equipped to start the hemming process.

Preparation for Hemming Knit Pants

Hemming knit pants can seem intimidating, but with the right preparation, it can be a straightforward process. Here are the steps to follow before you begin hemming:

Step 1: Wash and Iron your Pants

Before hemming your pants, make sure to wash and dry them following the care instructions on the label. This will ensure that any shrinkage occurs before you begin hemming. Ironing is also important as it makes it easier to get accurate measurements and creates a smooth base for sewing.

Step 2: Try on Your Pants

Put on the pants and determine how much you want to shorten them. If you don’t have a specific length in mind, try on different shoe types with your pants and decide what looks best.

Step 3: Mark Your Hemline

Mark your hemline using a fabric pen or tailor’s chalk, making sure it is straight and even all around.

Step 4: Trim Excess Fabric

Cut off any excess fabric below your marked line using sharp scissors.

Step 5: Determine Hem Width

Fold the raw edge of the fabric twice at the desired length, towards the wrong side of your pants

Q: What tools do I need to hem knit pants?
A: To hem knit pants, you will need a sewing machine, sewing needles suitable for knits, pins, fabric scissors, and measuring tape.

Q: What type of thread should I use to hem knit pants?
A: It is best to use a 100% polyester thread for hemming knit pants as it has some stretch and won’t break easily.

Q: How do I prepare the pants for hemming?
A: Before starting the hemming process, wash and dry the pants according to the care instructions on the label. This will help prevent any shrinkage after they are hemmed.

Q: What is the best stitch to use for hemming knit pants?
A: The best stitch to use for hemming knit pants is a narrow zigzag stitch. This allows the fabric to stretch while keeping the stitches secure.

Q: Do I need to fold under the raw edge of the pant leg before hemming?
A: No, you do not need to fold under the raw edge. Instead, use a serger or zigzag stitch to finish the raw edge before sewing your hem in place.

Q: How can I ensure that my hems stay in place after washing?
A: To keep your hems secure after washing, be sure to press them flat with an iron before wearing. It’s also helpful to reinforce them with a second line of stitching or some fray check product if desired.

In conclusion, hemming knit pants can seem like a daunting task, but with the right techniques and tools, it can be easily accomplished. Carefully measuring and marking your desired hem length, using the proper sewing machine settings and stitch type, and utilizing techniques such as stabilizing and using a double needle can all contribute to a professional looking hem on knit pants.

It is important to remember to always test your methods on scrap fabric before working on the actual pants, as each type of knit fabric may require different adjustments. Additionally, taking your time and being patient while sewing will lead to better results.

Hemming knit pants not only gives you the ability to customize the length of your pants, but it also adds durability and longevity to your garment. By following these steps and tips, you will be able to confidently hem any pair of knit pants in no time.

Furthermore, learning how to hem knit pants also opens up a world of possibilities for altering other types of stretchy fabric garments such as dresses or skirts. This skill can save you time and money in the long run by allowing you to make minor alterations on your own rather than paying for expensive tailoring.

Remember that practice makes perfect when it comes to sewing, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt doesn’t turn

Author Profile

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.