Master the Art of Hemming: The Ultimate Guide to Hem Jogging Pants

Are you tired of constantly tripping over your long and loose jogging pants? Or maybe you just want to give your favorite pair a fresh new look? Whatever the reason may be, learning how to hem your own jogging pants is a valuable skill that every fashion-conscious individual should have. Not only will it save you money from expensive alterations, but it also allows you to personalize and perfect the fit of your pants. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process on how to hem jogging pants like a pro. So grab your sewing kit and let’s get started on this exciting DIY project!

Hemming is an essential skill for any sewing enthusiast, and knowing how to hem jogging pants is a must for anyone who loves active wear. Hemming not only ensures a neat and finished look, but it also helps with the fit and functionality of the pants. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewer, learning how to hem your jogging pants will give you the confidence to tackle any sewing project. In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to know to achieve perfect hems on your jogging pants.

What You’ll Need

Before we dive into the steps of hemming jogging pants, let’s first gather all the necessary materials. For this project, you’ll need:

1. Jogging pants
2. Measuring tape
3. Fabric scissors
4. Pins
5. Sewing machine (optional)
6. Thread (matching or contrasting)
7. Iron and ironing board

Preparation

Before starting any sewing project, it’s important to prepare your fabric properly. If you’re working with new fabric, make sure to prewash it before beginning as some fabrics may shrink after washing.

As for your jogging pants, try them on and decide on the length you want for your hems. Measure from the bottom edge of the pant leg up to the desired length and add 1 inch for seam allowance.

Next, turn your pant inside out and lay it on a flat surface such as a table or ironing board.

Step-by-Step Guide

Now that we have everything we need and our fabric is prepped, let’s get started on hemming our jogging pants!

Step 1: Mark and cut

Using your measuring tape and fabric scissors, measure and mark the desired length on each pant leg. Make sure you do this accurately to avoid uneven hems. Once marked, cut along the line you’ve made on each pant leg.

Step 2: Fold and iron

Fold the raw edge of the fabric under towards the wrong side by 1/2 an inch and iron it to create a crisp crease. This will serve as your seam allowance.

Step 3: Re-fold and pin

Next, fold the fabric again by another ½ an inch and pin it in place. This double fold will ensure that the raw edges are enclosed within the hem, preventing fraying and giving a professional finish.

Step 4: Sew

Starting from one side seam, sew along the folded edge using a straight stitch. Sew around until you reach the other side seam, making sure you backstitch at both ends to secure the stitches. If you don’t have a sewing machine, you can hand-sew using a slipstitch or blind hem stitch.

Step 5: Press

After sewing, use your iron to press along the hemline to give it a neat and flat finish.

Optional Techniques

While this is the basic method for hemming jogging pants, there are other techniques that you can opt for depending on your preference or style of pants you’re working with:

• Double-folded Hem – Similar to what we’ve done in our step-by-step guide above but with a larger hem allowance of about 1 inch.
• Bias Tape Hem – Instead of folding and enclosing raw edges within the hem, use bias tape to cover them for a clean-looking finish.
• Elastic Hem – This technique adds a comfortable and flexible fit to your pants by incorporating elastic into your hem.

Troubleshooting Tips

Hemming can be tricky at times, but here are some tips to help you avoid common mistakes:

• Make sure that both pant legs are cut evenly and the same length.
• Ironing is essential to create crisp edges and avoid a crooked finish.
• Always test your machine settings on a scrap fabric before sewing onto your project to ensure the stitches are straight and tensions are correct.
• Go slow and steady when sewing to prevent uneven hems.
• If you’re working with stretchy fabrics, try using a ballpoint needle for a more even stitch.

Learning how to hem jogging pants is a skill that can be applied to various types of garments, giving you the confidence to sew and alter your clothes. With this guide, you’ll be able to achieve perfect hems on your jogging pants every time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques or add your personal touch to make your pants unique. Hemming may seem like a simple task, but it adds the finishing touch that elevates any garment. Enjoy hemming your jogging pants!

Step 1: Gather necessary materials

Before you can start hemming your jogging pants, you will need to gather all the necessary materials. This includes a measuring tape, a sewing machine, matching thread, sewing pins, fabric scissors, and an iron. It is important to have all of these materials ready before starting the hemming process in order to avoid any interruptions or delays.

Step 2: Measure and mark the desired length

Using a measuring tape, determine the desired length of your jogging pants. You can either measure them against another pair of pants that fit well or use your own preferred length. Once you have determined the desired length, mark it on both legs of the pants using sewing pins or fabric chalk.

Step 3: Cut off excess fabric

Using fabric scissors, cut off any excess fabric below the marked line on both legs of your jogging pants. It is important to leave about an inch of extra fabric for folding and hemming purposes.

Step 4: Fold and press

Once you have cut off the excess fabric, fold the raw edge over twice towards the inside of the pants to create a clean hemline. Use an iron to press down on the folded edge to create a crease and keep it in place.

Step 5: Pin in place

To ensure that your hemline stays in place while sewing, use sewing pins to pin down the folded edge. Make sure to evenly space out the pins along the entire hemline.

Step 6: Set up your sewing machine

Make sure your sewing machine is set up with a straight stitch and that the thread color matches your pants. Double-check that your bobbin is filled with matching thread as well.

Step 7: Sew along the hemline

Starting at one of the side seams, begin sewing along the hemline, removing the pins as you go. Make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of your stitch to secure it in place. Use a seam allowance of about half an inch and keep your stitches as straight as possible.

Step 8: Trim any loose threads

After sewing along the entire hemline, use fabric scissors to trim any loose threads and give your pants a clean finish. Be careful not to cut into the stitches while trimming.

Step 9: Press for a final time

Once you have trimmed all loose threads, use an iron to press down on your hemline one final time. This will help set your stitches and give your jogging pants a professional look.

Step 10: Try on and adjust if necessary

With the hemming process complete, try on your newly hemmed jogging pants and make any necessary adjustments. If you find that they are still too long or too short, repeat steps 3-9 until you achieve your desired length.

Tips for Hemming Jogging Pants

– When folding and pressing the raw edge for hemming, make sure that both legs are folded at the same length to avoid having uneven hems.
– For a more secure hemline, you can also use fabric glue or fusible web tape in addition to sewing.
– If you do not have a sewing machine, this process can also be done by hand using a needle and matching thread.
– Always double-check that your fold is straight before sewing to avoid having a crooked hemline.
– If you are new to using a sewing machine, practice on scrap fabric first before attempting to hem your jogging pants.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Not leaving enough extra fabric for folding and hemming, resulting in a too-short hemline.
– Using the wrong type of thread or not matching the thread color to your pants, resulting in a noticeable hem.
– Forgetting to backstitch at the beginning and end of your stitch, causing it to come undone over time.
– Rushing through the process and not properly measuring or folding, leading to an uneven or crooked hemline.

Final thoughts

Hemming your own jogging pants may seem like a daunting task, but with these simple steps and tips, you can achieve a professional-looking finish. Just remember to take your time and double-check your measurements and folds before sewing. With some practice, you may find yourself confidently hemming all of your pants in no time. Happy sewing!

Q: What tools do I need to hem jogging pants?
A: To hem jogging pants, you will need a sewing machine, sewing scissors, measuring tape, pins, and thread.

Q: Can I use hand sewing to hem my jogging pants?
A: Yes, you can use hand sewing to hem your jogging pants, but it may not be as durable as using a sewing machine.

Q: How much material should I cut off when hemming my jogging pants?
A: Generally, 1-2 inches is enough to hem most jogging pants. However, it is best to measure and mark the desired length before cutting to ensure accuracy.

Q: Do I need to wash my jogging pants before hemming them?
A: It is recommended to wash and dry your jogging pants before hemming them. This will prevent shrinkage after the hem is completed.

Q: How do I create a clean and professional-looking hem on my jogging pants?
A: To create a clean and professional-looking hem on your jogging pants, press the raw edges under first before stitching. This will prevent fraying and create a crisp edge.

Q: Is it necessary to double-fold the raw edges when hemming jogging pants?
A: Yes, it is necessary to double-fold the raw edges when hemming jogging pants. This ensures that there are no visible raw edges on the inside of the pant leg.

In conclusion, hemming jogging pants is a relatively simple task that can be easily done at home with the right tools and techniques. The key to achieving a professional-looking hem is accuracy and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully hem your jogging pants and customize them to fit your body perfectly.

It is important to properly measure and mark the correct length before cutting, as well as using the right stitch type and sewing technique. Avoid rushing through the process and take your time to ensure a clean and neat finish.

Additionally, it is essential to choose the appropriate fabric and thread for your jogging pants. This will not only ensure durability but also prevent any unwanted stretching or puckering of the fabric.

Overall, learning how to hem jogging pants gives you more control over your wardrobe by allowing you to alter and modify clothing pieces according to your preferences. It also helps save money by avoiding costly alterations or having to purchase new pants.

By following these steps, you can confidently hem jogging pants for yourself or others, making them more comfortable and stylish. So next time you have a pair of ill-fitting or too long jogging pants, remember these tips and transform them into a perfectly tailored piece.

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.