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

As fashion trends continue to shift towards comfort and versatility, knit pants have become a staple in every wardrobe. However, finding the perfect fit can be a challenge, especially when it comes to the length. Thankfully, there’s a simple solution – hemming. Learning how to hem knit pants can not only save you money but also give you the freedom to customize your pants to the ideal length for your body. Say goodbye to tripping over too-long hems and hello to perfectly tailored knits with our step-by-step guide on how to hem knit pants. So grab your sewing supplies and get ready to elevate your wardrobe with this essential skill.

Knit pants are a staple in any wardrobe, offering comfort and style that can easily take you from a casual day at home to a night out with friends. However, unlike other types of pants such as denim or cotton, knit pants require special attention when it comes to hemming. The unique fabric and stretch of knits can make it challenging to achieve the perfect hem without ending up with a lopsided or awkward finish.

But fear not, with the right techniques, hemming knit pants can be a simple and manageable task. In this detailed guide, we will cover everything you need to know about how to hem knit pants like a pro.

Preparing your Materials

The first step to successfully hemming knit pants is gathering all the necessary materials. Here’s what you will need:

– Needle: When working on knits, you’ll want to use a needle with a rounded tip, such as a ballpoint or stretch needle. These needles glide through the fabric without snagging or piercing the threads.
– Thread: Choose a thread that matches the color of your pants and is designated for knits. These threads have extra elasticity and can withstand stretching without breaking.
– Pins: Pinning your fabric in place before sewing is crucial when working with knits. Use ballpoint pins or clips specifically designed for knits to avoid damaging the fabric.
– Scissors: A pair of sharp scissors will make cutting through knits easier and more precise.
– Measuring tape: To ensure accuracy, always measure twice before cutting or sewing.
– Iron: A hot iron is essential while working on knit fabrics as it helps flatten out wrinkles and creates crisp seams.

Preparing Your Pants for Hemming

Before diving into the actual hemming process, there are some preparatory steps you should take.

1. Wash your pants: If you are hemming new pants, always wash them first as they may shrink. Hemming pre-washed pants will prevent any shrinkage after the hem is finished.

2. Try on your pants: This may seem obvious, but it’s essential to try on your pants before hemming to determine how much length you want to remove. Put on the shoes you will typically wear with the pants to get an accurate length.

3. Turn your pants inside out: This step will make it easier for you to work on the seams and avoid accidentally cutting or sewing through both layers of fabric.

4. Mark your desired length: Using a fabric marker, mark your desired length on both pant legs. Measure from the bottom edge of the pants and make sure they are even.

Options for Hemming Knit Pants

When it comes to hemming knit pants, there are several methods you can choose from depending on your skill level and preference. Here are some options:

1. Hand sewn hem: This method involves hand sewing a blind stitch along the edges of the pant legs to create a clean and invisible finish.
2. Twin needle hem: Using a twin needle creates two parallel lines of stitching that mimic the look of ready-made knit hems.
3. Serger or overlock hem: If you own a serger or overlock machine, this is a quick and easy option for finishing knit hems.
4. Coverstitch hem: A coverstitch machine allows you to create neat and professional-looking hems with ease.
5. Fusible web tape: This option involves using fusible web tape or adhesive tape specifically designed for knits, such as Heat ‘n Bond, to secure your hems in place without sewing.

Step-by-Step Guide for Hemming Knit Pants

For this guide, we will focus on the hand-sewing method as it is accessible to beginners and doesn’t require any special equipment.

Step 1: Trim the Length
Start by trimming the excess length on your pants, leaving a 1-inch hem allowance. If your pants have a fold-over waistband, leave an additional 0.5 inches for folding over.

Step 2: Fold and Pin the Hem
Fold the raw edge of your pants up to the marked line from Step 4 of our preparatory steps. Make sure the hem is even on both sides. Use ballpoint pins or clips to secure the fabric in place.

Step 3: Start Hand Sewing
Thread your needle with matching thread, and tie a knot at the end. Place your needle through the folded edge and come out a few strands of fabric over from the initial stitch to create an invisible hemline.

Step 4: Repeat and Knot
Continue sewing along until you reach the end of your pant leg, making sure to keep your stitches small and even. Once you reach the end, make a small knot with your thread at this last stitch.

Step 5: Repeat Steps for Second Leg
Repeat steps 2-4 for the second leg of your pants.

Caring for Your Hemmed Knit Pants

Why Choose Knit Pants?

Knit pants have become a popular choice in recent years for their comfort and versatility. Made from a stretchy, soft fabric, they are a favorite among both men and women. Unlike traditional pants, which can often be uncomfortable and restrictive, knit pants provide a comfortable fit that allows freedom of movement while still looking stylish.

Another reason why knit pants are so popular is because they are easy to care for. Unlike other types of fabric, knit material does not easily wrinkle or shrink, making it ideal for everyday wear. In addition, these pants are also known for being durable, making them a long-term investment in your wardrobe.

The Importance of Hemming Knit Pants

Hemming your knit pants is not just about achieving the perfect fit; it also ensures that your pants look neat and polished. Most store-bought knit pants come with unfinished hems that need to be hemmed to suit your body type. Hemming your pants also allows you to customize the length according to your preference.

Furthermore, hemming also helps prevent the fabric from fraying and unraveling over time. This is especially important with knit material as it can easily stretch and lose its shape if not finished properly.

Essential Tools for Hemming Knit Pants

Before you start hemming your knit pants, it’s essential to make sure you have all the necessary tools on hand. These include:

– Sewing machine or needle
– Matching thread
– Fabric scissors
– Straight pins
– Measuring tape
– Iron
– Seam ripper (in case of any mistakes)

Having these tools will ensure that you achieve a professional-looking hem on your knit pants.

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Hem Knit Pants

1) Start by trying on the knit pants and mark the desired length with a straight pin. Make sure to wear the shoes you plan on pairing with your pants to get an accurate length.

2) Once you have marked the length, take off the pants and lay them flat on a table or ironing board.

3) Use a fabric measuring tape to measure and mark the same length all around the pant legs. This will ensure that your hem is even on both sides.

4) Turn the pants inside out and fold the fabric at the marking. Pin it in place, making sure to align the edges smoothly.

5) Using a sewing machine or needle and thread, stitch along the fold line. It’s essential to use a stretch stitch for knit fabric to avoid any breakage when wearing your pants.

6) Once stitched, turn your pants right side out and try them on again. If you’re happy with the hem length, trim off any excess fabric close to the stitching line.

7) To give your hem a professional finish, place a damp cloth over it and press it with an iron. This will help set the stitches and make your hem look crisp.

8) If you’ve made any mistakes during this process, use a seam ripper to undo them and start again.

Tips for Hemming Knit Pants

– Always use matching thread for seamless blending.
– Use sharp fabric scissors for clean-cut edges.
– Test different stitch options on scrap fabric before starting on your pants.
– Prioritize accuracy when measuring and marking for hemming.
– Avoid stretching or pulling on the fabric while sewing as it can create uneven hems.
– Be patient, take your time, and make corrections as needed for best results.

Hemming knit pants may seem like a daunting task at first, but with practice and proper tools, it can be done easily at home. Not only does hemming ensure the perfect fit and a polished look, but it also increases the lifespan of your pants. With these tips and a bit of patience, you’ll be able to hem all your knit pants like a pro in no time. So why wait? Get those knit pants out of the back of your closet and give them a fresh new hem!

Q: What is hemming and why is it necessary for knit pants?
A: Hemming is a sewing technique used to finish the raw edge of a garment. It is necessary for knit pants as the raw edge of the fabric can unravel or fray without proper finishing.

Q: Can I use a regular sewing machine to hem my knit pants?
A: Yes, you can use a regular sewing machine to hem your knit pants. However, it is recommended to use a ballpoint needle and stretch stitch for best results.

Q: What type of thread should I use for hemming knit pants?
A: It is best to use polyester thread when hemming knit pants as it has some degree of stretch and will not break easily when the fabric stretches.

Q: How much fabric should I remove when hemming my knit pants?
A: The amount of fabric you remove while hemming your knit pants depends on personal preference. A general rule of thumb is to try on the pants and pin them at the desired length before cutting off any excess fabric.

Q: Can I hand sew my knit pants instead of using a sewing machine?
A: While it is possible to hand sew your knit pants, using a sewing machine will ensure more uniform and durable stitches, especially if you are working with stretchy fabrics.

Q: How do I prevent puckering while hemming my knit pants?
A: To prevent puckering while hemming your knit pants, ensure that you are using a ballpoint needle and stabilize the fabric with tissue paper or stabilizer before sewing. You can also try slightly stretching the fabric as you sew.

In conclusion, knowing how to hem knit pants can save you time and money while also allowing you to customize your wardrobe to fit your exact measurements. By following the proper techniques for handling and sewing knitted fabric, you can achieve a professional-looking hem that will last through multiple washes and wears.

Some key takeaways from this process include starting with the right tools, such as a ballpoint or stretch needle, and using proper techniques like stabilizing the fabric to prevent stretching. Additionally, being mindful of the type of stitch used and leaving room for natural stretch in the fabric can make all the difference in achieving a seamless hem.

It is also important to consider the shape of your desired hemline, such as straight, curved, or angled, as this will impact the overall look and fit of your pants. Taking accurate measurements and making fitting adjustments before hemming can also contribute to a more polished end result.

Moreover, learning how to hem knit pants is not only practical but also a creative way to breathe new life into old or ill-fitting garments. With practice and attention to detail, you can confidently tackle any pair of knit pants that need hemming.

Overall, by understanding the specific nature of working with knitted fabrics and incorporating some helpful tips and techniques into your process,

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.