How to Hem Pants
Learn how to hem pants with measuring, pinning, cutting, folding, hand or machine stitching, mistakes, troubleshooting, and FAQs.
Quick Answer
To hem pants, try them on with shoes, mark the desired length, add hem allowance, fold and press evenly, pin, stitch by hand or machine, then press the finished hem.
Tools and Materials
- Pants
- Shoes worn with pants
- Pins or clips
- Measuring tape
- Iron
- Needle and thread or sewing machine
- Fabric scissors
Safety Precautions
- Measure twice before cutting.
- Use heat settings safe for the fabric.
- Keep pins and scissors away from children.
- Do not cut off original hem until you are sure.
- Try pants on before final stitching.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1
Try pants on
Wear the shoes you plan to use with the pants.
- Step 2
Mark length
Fold or mark where the finished hem should sit.
- Step 3
Measure both legs
Check both legs because lengths can differ slightly.
- Step 4
Add hem allowance
Leave extra fabric for folding before cutting.
- Step 5
Press the fold
Iron the hem fold evenly around each leg.
- Step 6
Pin and stitch
Use hand stitches or a sewing machine to secure the hem.
- Step 7
Press finish
Press the finished hem for a clean look.
Practical Example
Example: For dress pants, you mark the break at the shoe, add a 1.5-inch allowance, fold, press, and hand-stitch an invisible hem.
Common Mistakes
- Cutting before checking length
- Measuring without shoes
- Making legs uneven
- Skipping pressing
- Using thread that contrasts too much
- Using too much heat on delicate fabric
Troubleshooting
One leg is longer
Try pants on again and remeasure each leg separately.
Hem looks bulky
Trim excess allowance or use a narrower fold if fabric allows.
Stitches show too much
Use matching thread and smaller stitches.
Fabric puckers
Reduce tension, use the correct needle, and press carefully.
Helpful Internal Links
FAQs
Can I hem pants by hand?
Yes. A hand stitch works well, especially for dress pants.
How much hem allowance should I leave?
It depends on fabric and style, but leave enough for a secure fold before cutting.
Should pants be hemmed with shoes on?
Yes, shoes affect the correct finished length.
Can I use hem tape?
Yes for a quick fix, but stitching is usually more durable.
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