Master the Art of Hemming Flared Pants: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you tired of constantly tripping over your flared pants or struggling to find the perfect length? Look no further, because in this article we will be exploring the art of hemming flared pants. Whether you’re a fashion lover or simply looking to alter an old pair of pants, learning how to hem flared pants is a valuable skill that can save you time and money. So let’s dive in and discover the tips and tricks to achieving the perfect hem for your flared pants.

Hemming flared pants can seem like a daunting task, but with the right techniques and tools, it can be a simple and effective process. Whether you have a pair of too-long flared pants or want to alter a pair to fit your body better, hemming them is a great way to achieve the perfect fit. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about how to hem flared pants.

Understanding Flared Pants

Before we dive into the process of hemming flared pants, it’s essential to understand what exactly makes them different from other styles of pants. Flared pants are characterized by their wide leg openings that gradually widen towards the ankle. They were popular in the 1960s and have since made multiple comebacks in fashion trends. This style of pants is known for its unique silhouette, which can be flattering on various body shapes.

Flared pants are typically made of lighter materials such as denim, cotton, or linen. This is because a flowy and lightweight material helps accentuate the flare at the bottom. On the other hand, heavier fabrics like wool or corduroy can make the flare look bulky and unflattering.

The Importance of Proper Hemming

Hemming is an essential step in completing any garment, but it is especially crucial for flared pants. With their wide leg opening, hemming determines how well your pants will drape and how they will look on your body. Improper hemming can make your flared pants look too long or too short and affect the overall shape and style of the garment.

When done correctly, hemming not only ensures that your flared pants fit well but also gives them a professional touch. It’s one way to showcase your tailoring skills and make even inexpensive or store-bought garments look high-end.

Tools Needed for Hemming Flared Pants

Before you begin hemming your flared pants, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Here are some of the must-haves:

1. Fabric scissors – Sharp and precise scissors are necessary for a clean and accurate cut.

2. Sewing machine or needle and thread – While you can hand-sew your hem, a sewing machine will make the process quicker and more efficient.

3. Pins – Pins are used to hold the fabric in place while hemming, ensuring that it stays even.

4. Measuring tape – A measuring tape will help you get accurate measurements for your hem.

5. Iron – Ironing your pants before hemming is crucial to ensure smooth and straight edges.

Preparing Your Pants for Hemming

Before you get started with hemming, there are a few preparatory steps you should take to ensure the best results:

1. Wash and dry your pants according to their care instructions. This step ensures that any potential shrinkage occurs before you start hemming.

2. Try on your pants and mark where you want them to end. You can use chalk or pins to mark the desired length on both legs.

3. Measure how much fabric needs to be removed from each leg and ensure they are equal in length.

The Different Hemming Techniques

There are various techniques for hemming flared pants, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are the most common methods used:

1. Blind Hem Stitch – This technique involves hiding the stitches inside the fold of the fabric, making them nearly invisible from the outside. It creates a clean and polished look but requires advanced sewing skills or a special sewing machine foot.

2.Invisible Hem Tape – If you don’t have advanced sewing skills or want a quick solution, invisible hem tape is an excellent option. It involves using a double-sided adhesive tape that bonds fabric together without the need for sewing.

3. Topstitching – Topstitching involves stitching on the outside of the pants, close to the edge of the fabric. This technique is suitable for denims and heavier fabrics and adds a decorative touch to your pants.

Step-by-Step Guide to Hemming Flared Pants

Now that you have all the necessary information let’s dive into how to hem your flared pants:

1. Begin by turning your pants inside out and ironing them along the marked hemline. This will create a crease that will serve as a guide when sewing.

2. Using your fabric scissors, cut 1-1.5 inches below the marked hemline. The extra inch is necessary for folding over and creating a clean edge.

3. Fold the excess fabric inwards, aligning it with the crease created in step 1. Ensure that both legs are even before pinning them in place.

4. Sew along the pinned edge using your chosen hemming technique from above.

Alternative Methods

If you do not have access to a sewing machine or prefer not to sew, there are alternative methods you can use to hem fl

Step 1: Preparing Your Pants

First things first, before you can start hemming your flared pants, you need to make sure that they are ready for it. This means checking for any stains or loose threads and giving them a good wash. Once they are clean, turn them inside out to expose the inner seams.

Step 2: Measuring and Marking

The key to achieving a perfect hem on your flared pants is precise measuring and marking. This step is important as it ensures that the hem is straight and even all around. Begin by putting on your pants and your desired shoes. Next, using a ruler or measuring tape, determine the length you want your pants to be after hemming. Mark this measurement with tailor’s chalk or pins.

Step 3: Pinning the Hem

With your markings done, it’s time to pin up the hems of your flared pants. Start by folding the pant leg at the marked length. You can use an iron to create a crisp fold if needed. Then, insert pins every few inches along the folded edge to secure it in place.

Step 4: Cutting off Excess Fabric

Once both pant legs are pinned up, use sharp scissors to cut off any excess fabric beyond the folded edge. Make sure not to cut too close to the pins at this stage as we will need them.

Step 5: Sewing the Hem

Now that we have our desired length and excess fabric removed, it’s time to make some sturdy hems on our pants! Begin by removing some of the pins (leaving only a few in place) so you can have access to an opening for sewing machine needle or hand sewing needle. Using matching thread color or invisible thread sew along one of the pinned edges being sure to keep your stitches close to the folded edge. When you reach a corner, always make a small backstitch to keep the hem secure. Repeat along the other pant leg.

Step 6: Creating a Blind Hem

Blind hem, also called invisible hem, is perfect for pants with wide or flared legs as it keeps the hems hidden from sight. To achieve this type of hem, fold the raw edge in once and then in again so that it’s fully covered by fabric. Pin this folded edge in place before stitching using tiny stitches.

Step 7: Removing Excess Pins

Before trying on your newly hemmed flared pants, make sure to remove all remaining pins. It’s important not to leave pins inside your pants as they can be uncomfortable and even cause accidents while wearing them.

Step 8: Trying on Your Hemmed Pants

Now that your hems are complete and all pins have been removed, it’s time to try on your fashionable new pants! This step is essential because sometimes after sewing and pressing some areas can still require additional adjustments. Check that the length is perfect and adjust if needed.

Step 9: Pressing Final Hems

Once you have made any necessary adjustments answering “should I hem my pants higher or lower?” questions, press over final hems with an iron. This will help set their shape and give them a clean professional look.

Taking Care of Your Flared Pants Hems

With proper care, you can ensure that your flared pants hems stay looking great for longer. When washing your pants, it’s important to turn them inside out before putting them into the machine to prevent any wear or damage to the hems. Use gentle detergents suitable for colored fabric to prevent fading. After washing, line dry your pants to avoid any shrinkage caused by the heat from a dryer.

Congratulations! You have successfully hemmed your flared pants and achieved the perfect length for them. With these easy-to-follow steps, you can hem your own pants without needing to visit a tailor. Remember to always measure and mark precisely, secure with pins before sewing, and press for a polished finish. With practice, you will be able to master the art of hemming and have perfectly tailored pants every time.

Q: What are flared pants?
A: Flared pants, also known as bell-bottom or bootcut pants, have a wide leg opening that flares out from the knee down.

Q: Why do I need to hem my flared pants?
A: Hemming your flared pants ensures they are the right length for you and prevents them from dragging on the ground or getting caught under your shoes.

Q: How do I determine the correct length for my flared pants?
A: A good rule of thumb is to have the hem of your flared pants reach the top of your shoes, with a slight break in the front. This will create a clean and polished look.

Q: What tools do I need to hem my flared pants?
A: You will need a measuring tape, sewing machine or needle and thread, pins, scissors, and an iron.

Q: Can I hem my own flared pants or do I need to take them to a tailor?
A: Hemming your own flared pants is possible if you have basic sewing skills. However, if you want a professional finish or are not confident in your sewing abilities, it is best to take them to a tailor.

Q: How can I hem my flared pants without cutting off the original hem?
A: A popular method is using blind stitching where small stitches are made within the seam allowance. The stitches are hidden inside the pant leg so that it does not show on the outside. This way, you can maintain the original hem while still shortening your flared pants.

In conclusion, knowing how to hem flared pants can be a valuable skill for any fashion-conscious individual. In this guide, we have discussed the step-by-step process of hemming flared pants, from preparation to finishing touches. We have also highlighted the importance of measuring and marking accurately, as well as using appropriate tools and techniques for a clean and professional-looking hem.

By following these guidelines, one can easily alter or customize their flared pants to achieve the desired length and fit. This not only adds versatility to one’s wardrobe but also saves money on alterations or buying new pants.

Furthermore, learning how to hem flared pants allows you to unleash your creativity and experiment with different styles and trends. With a little bit of practice and patience, anyone can successfully hem their own pants at home.

It’s also worth noting that by taking care of your own clothing repairs, you are contributing towards sustainable fashion practices. Instead of discarding ill-fitting or damaged clothing, you can prolong its lifespan by altering it to suit your needs.

In today’s fast-paced world of fast fashion and mass-produced clothing, learning basic sewing skills like hemming can empower individuals to take control of their wardrobe and express their personal style.

In essence, understanding the method of how to hem flared pants

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.