What You’ll Need
- A Pair of Jeans
- A Measuring Tape
- A Seam Ripper
- A Sewing Machine or Needle and Thread
- A Pair of Fabric Scissors
- Straight Pins
- An Iron
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to quickly and easily shorten your denim:
1. Determine the Desired Length
Put on the jeans and fold them up to the desired length. Use a measuring tape to ensure both legs are folded up evenly. Mark the desired length with pins or chalk.
2. Measure and Mark
Take off the jeans and lay them flat on a surface. Measure the distance from the original hem to the marked length. This measurement will be used to adjust the other leg to the same length.
3. Remove the Original Hem
Use a seam ripper to carefully remove the original hem on both legs. Be cautious not to damage the rest of the jeans while doing this.
4. Trim the Excess
Trim the excess fabric, leaving around an inch below the marked length. This will allow you to create a new hem without the jeans ending up too short.
5. Create the New Hem
Fold the bottom edge of the leg up to create the new hem, using the marked length as a guide. Secure the new hem with straight pins to keep it in place.
6. Iron the Hem
Once you’ve pinned the new hem, carefully iron it to create a crisp fold. Check that both legs are folded evenly and adjust if necessary.
7. Secure the Hem
Using a sewing machine or needle and thread, sew a straight stitch along the bottom edge of the new hem to secure it in place. Make sure to use a thread color that matches your jeans to keep the alteration discreet.
8. Trim Any Excess Threads
Finally, trim any excess threads and give your jeans a final ironing to make them look neat and polished.
Voila! You’re Done!
With these easy steps, you’ve successfully altered your jeans to the perfect length. Now you can confidently rock your newly tailored denim and feel like a fashion icon.
Remember, don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with alterations. You can also use these techniques to add unique touches like frayed hems, patches, or decorative stitching. Get creative and make your jeans truly one-of-a-kind!
Stay tuned for more tips and tricks to help you master the art of DIY alterations. Happy sewing!