What You’ll Need
- Men’s pants
- Measuring tape
- Pins
- Scissors
- Sewing machine or needle and thread
- Iron
Step 1: Determine the Desired Length
Start by trying on the pants and deciding how much you want to shorten them. Use a measuring tape to measure the desired length from the bottom of the pants. Make sure to consider the type of shoe you’ll be wearing with the pants to achieve the desired look.
Step 2: Mark the Length
Once you’ve determined the ideal length, use pins to mark where you will cut the pants. It’s important to mark both legs to maintain symmetry.
Step 3: Prepare for Cutting
Take off the pants and lay them on a flat surface. Ensure that they are straight and smooth out any wrinkles. Measure the distance from the bottom of the pants to the pin marking the desired length to ensure uniformity.
Step 4: Cut the Pants
Using a pair of sharp scissors, carefully cut the pants along the marked line. Take your time and make sure the cut is clean and straight for a professional finish.
Step 5: Finish the Raw Edges
To prevent fraying, it’s essential to finish the raw edges of the pants. If you have a sewing machine, use a zigzag stitch along the cut edge. If you don’t have access to a sewing machine, you can also use a needle and thread to hand sew a blanket stitch along the edge.
Step 6: Hem the Pants
To create a clean and polished look, it’s time to hem the pants. Fold the bottom edge of the pants half an inch towards the inside, wrong side facing out. Press the fold with an iron to keep it in place. Repeat this step, folding the fabric another half inch, and press again. Pin the hem in place.
Step 7: Sew the Hem
Using a sewing machine or a needle and thread, sew the hem in place. If you’re using a sewing machine, use a straight stitch. If you’re doing it by hand, use small, neat stitches to ensure durability.
Step 8: Give them a Final Press
Finally, give your newly shortened pants a final press with an iron to smooth out any wrinkles and ensure a crisp finish. Be careful not to flatten or damage the hem you just sewed.
Voila! You have successfully shortened your men’s pants. Put them on and enjoy your perfectly tailored trousers.
Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt is not flawless. With time, you’ll become more confident and skilled at altering pants to fit your unique style and body shape.
Now that you know how to shorten men’s pants, you can save money on alterations and easily modify your trousers to achieve the perfect length!