Say Goodbye to Baggy Bottoms: The Ultimate Guide on How to Hem Wide Leg Jeans

Are you tired of your wide leg jeans dragging on the ground or engulfing your feet? We’ve all been there, struggling to find the perfect pair of jeans that fit in all the right places. But fear not, because in this article, we will be uncovering the secrets to hemming wide leg jeans. From choosing the right tools and materials to step-by-step instructions, you’ll have your favorite pair of jeans fitting like a glove in no time. So break out those neglected jeans from the back of your closet and get ready to transform them into your new go-to bottoms. Let’s dive into the world of hemming wide leg jeans and say goodbye to ill-fitting denim for good.

What are wide leg jeans?

Wide leg jeans, also known as flared jeans, are a type of denim pants that have a wider opening at the bottom than regular or slim-fit jeans. They are characterized by their loose and flowy silhouette, making them comfortable and stylish for various body types. Wide leg jeans were popularized in the 1970s as a hippie and disco fashion trend, but have since made a comeback in recent years.

These jeans can come in different styles, ranging from high-waisted to low-rise, and can be found in various fabrics such as traditional denim, corduroy, or even stretch materials. They usually have a fitted waist and hips, then gradually widen beginning at the knee down to the hemline. In fact, the hem can be anywhere from slightly flared to very wide, depending on personal preference.

Why you should hem your wide leg jeans

Hemming is an essential step in altering any clothing item to achieve the perfect fit. While wide leg jeans are designed to be loose and flowy, they still need proper hemming to create a polished look. In most cases, ready-to-wear wide leg jeans tend to run long, especially for individuals with shorter legs. Hemming your wide leg jeans will not only give you a tailored appearance but also prevent you from stepping on the hems of your pants.

Furthermore, hemming will help accentuate your height by avoiding any bunching or dragging of excess fabric near your feet. It also elevates your overall outfit by giving the illusion of longer legs and creates a clean line from waist to ankle. Whether you prefer your wide leg jeans touching the ground or leaving just enough room for ankle boots or sneakers, hemming is key to achieving that desired look effortlessly.

Supplies needed for hemming wide leg jeans

To hem your wide leg jeans, you will need a few essential supplies such as:

A sewing machine or needle and thread
Scissors
Tape measure or ruler
Pins or clips
Seam ripper (optional)
Fabric marking tool

Depending on the type of hem you’re going for, you may also need some additional supplies like bias tape, fusible webbing, and iron-on adhesive. These materials can be found at any craft store or online and are relatively inexpensive.

Step-by-step guide on how to hem your wide leg jeans

Step 1: Determine the desired length of your jeans

Before starting any alteration, it is crucial to decide on the length you want your wide leg jeans to be. Try them on with the shoes you intend to wear them with, and mark where you want the hem to hit on both legs. Keep in mind that some heels may add an extra inch or two in height.

Step 2: Prepare your wide leg jeans for hemming

To make sure that both legs are even in length, lay them flat on a table or floor with the inseams facing up. Smooth out the fabric with your hands to avoid any creases or folds before starting any measurements.

Step 3: Measure and cut off excess fabric from the bottom of each leg

Using a measuring tape or ruler, measure and mark the desired length on both pant legs. Take into consideration any style lines such as frayed hems which tend to fray more when cut at shorter lengths. Once marked, use scissors to cut off excess fabric from both legs. If your jeans have a prominent flare at the hem, cut straight across instead of following the flare. You can always adjust this later.

Step 4: Prepare for hemming

Turn your jeans inside out and fold the bottom edge twice towards the inside of each leg. Make sure that your folds are even and straight, and visually check if they match in length before pinning or clipping them in place. If you have any uneven areas, use a ruler to help guide you towards a straight line.

Step 5: Hem your wide leg jeans

Using a sewing machine or needle and thread, hem the bottom edges of both pant legs. A simple backstitch along the folded edge will do just fine, but if you want extra reinforcement for heavier material such as denim, consider using a triple stitch.

Alternative method: Using fusible tape or iron-on adhesive

If sewing is not an option for you, there are other ways to hem your wide leg jeans by using fusible tape or iron-on adhesive. Following steps 1-4 above, instead of sewing, use fusible tape or iron-on adhesive between the two folded edges of your pant legs. Then press with an iron to seal it in place.

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Hemming wide leg jeans can seem like a daunting task, but with the right techniques and tips, it can be easily mastered. Whether you want to hem your jeans due to length or for stylistic purposes, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know on how to hem wide leg jeans like a pro. From choosing the right tools and materials to step-by-step instructions, get ready to transform your jeans into a perfect fit.

Understanding Wide Leg Jeans

Before you begin hemming your wide leg jeans, it is important to understand what makes them unique. Unlike traditional slim or skinny jeans, wide leg jeans have a wider cut from the waist down. This means that when it comes to hemming, there is more fabric that needs altering. Sometimes, wide leg jeans can also have a longer inseam compared to other styles.

Choosing the Right Tools and Materials

To achieve the best results when hemming your wide leg jeans, make sure you have these essential tools and materials on hand:

– Sewing machine (or needle and thread)
– Fabric scissors
– Pins
– Seam ripper (in case of mistakes)
– Iron
– Measuring tape
– Ruler
– Chalk or fabric marker
– Matching thread
– Needle threader (if hand sewing)

It is important to use high-quality materials and tools for the best results. The thread should match the color of your jeans so that it isn’t visible once the hem is complete.

Preparing Your Jeans for Hemming

Before you start sewing, make sure your jeans are clean and pressed. This will make it easier for you to measure and mark accurately. Lay your jeans flat on a surface with the front facing up. If you want a more accurate measurement, put them on and take note of where you want your jeans to fall. Then, subtract the desired length from the original length of your jeans to determine how much you need to hem.

Measuring and Marking

Now it’s time to measure and mark your jeans for hemming. Using a ruler or measuring tape, measure the length you want your jeans to be from the bottom edge. For a cleaner finish, add an extra inch to this measurement. Then use chalk or fabric marker to draw a straight line along the bottom edge.

Next, using a measuring tape, measure and mark the same distance all around the leg opening. This will ensure that your hem is even all around.

Preparing for Sewing

Once your jeans are measured and marked, it’s time to prepare for sewing. Turn your jeans inside out and use pins or clips to secure the fabric along the marked line. This will prevent any shifting while you sew.

If you’re using a sewing machine, start by switching to a denim needle for thicker fabric. Sew along the marked line with a straight stitch starting at one leg opening and ending at the other.

If you’re hand sewing, use a backstitch and thread your needle with double thread for reinforcement. Start at one leg opening and sew along the marked line with small stitches until you reach the other end.

Finishing Touches

Once you’ve sewn all around, cut off any excess fabric leaving about ¼ inch from the stitch line. If desired, you can also use a zigzag stitch or overcast stitch on the raw edge for extra reinforcement.

Lastly, press down on the new hem with an iron to give it a crisp finish. And just like that, you have successfully hemmed your wide leg jeans!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some additional tips and tricks that will come in handy when hemming your wide leg jeans:

– If you’re unsure about the length, start by hemming just a small section of your jeans and try them on to see how they look.
– If your jeans have a distressed or raw hem, you can still use this method to give it a more polished look.
– For an alternative finish, you can also cuff your wide leg jeans instead of sewing them.
– If you don’t have access to a sewing machine, use fabric glue instead to secure the hem.
– For an edgy look, consider using a contrasting thread color for your stitches.

Hemming wide leg jeans may take some practice, but with these techniques and tips, you’ll be able to achieve the perfect fit in no time. Remember to take your time and be precise with measurements and marking. With the right tools and materials, you can easily transform your wide leg jeans into a stylish and well-fitting pair. So go ahead and give it a try – you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to hem your own jeans!

1) What supplies do I need to hem wide leg jeans?
You will need a sewing machine, thread, scissors, pins, a ruler or measuring tape, and fabric chalk. Optional supplies include a seam ripper and iron.

2) How do I measure the proper length for hemming wide leg jeans?
First, put on the jeans and fold them up to the desired length. Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure how much fabric you folded up. Then, add an additional 1-2 inches to account for seam allowance.

3) Do I need to use a special type of thread for hemming wide leg jeans?
It is recommended to use heavy-duty or denim thread for hemming wide leg jeans. This type of thread is stronger and more durable than regular thread, which can prevent the hem from unraveling.

4) Can I hem my wide leg jeans without using a sewing machine?
While it is possible to hand stitch a hem on your jeans, using a sewing machine will create a neater and more secure hem. If you don’t have access to a sewing machine, you can consider using fabric glue as an alternative.

5) How do I ensure my hems are even and straight when working with wide leg jeans?
One helpful tip is to fold both legs of the jeans at the same time and measure each fold before sewing. Additionally, taking the time to use fabric chalk or pins to mark where you want your hems can also help ensure they are even.

6) What should I do if my wide leg jeans have embellishments or distressing on the bottom?
If your jeans have any decorative elements on the bottom of the legs that may get in the way of sewing, it’s important to remove them before hemming. You can use a seam ripper to carefully take off any decorative stitching, and then reattach them once the hem is complete. For distressed areas, make sure to cut the hems above these areas rather than sewing through them.

In conclusion, learning how to hem wide leg jeans can be a simple yet rewarding process. By following the steps outlined in this guide, one can easily alter their jeans to achieve a perfect fit and a more polished look. From choosing the right tools and materials to properly measuring and stitching, each step is crucial in creating a clean and professional hem.

It is important to note that practice makes perfect when it comes to hemming wide leg jeans. Whether you are a beginner or experienced tailor, take the time to practice on scrap fabric first before attempting to hem your jeans. This will help you refine your skills and ensure a flawless result.

Additionally, being able to hem your own jeans not only saves money but also allows for customization and personalization. You have the freedom to choose the length and style of your hem, giving your jeans a unique touch.

Furthermore, knowing how to properly hem wide leg jeans is a valuable skill that can be applied to other clothing alterations as well. So even if you don’t own wide leg jeans, the techniques discussed can be used for trousers, skirts, or any other garment that needs adjusting.

In summary, mastering the art of hemming wide leg jeans requires patience, precision, and practice. But with the right tools and techniques, anyone can achieve

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.

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