Have a pair of jeans that are just a little too long? Don’t despair! With a few simple tools and a little bit of know-how, you can easily hem them yourself. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to cut jeans that are too long, so you can get that perfect fit. We’ll also provide some tips on how to avoid common mistakes, so you can get the best results possible. So what are you waiting for? Grab your jeans, a pair of scissors, and let’s get started!
Before you start cutting, it’s important to make sure you have the right tools. You’ll need a pair of sharp scissors, a measuring tape, and a sewing machine. If you don’t have a sewing machine, you can also hand-sew the hem. However, a sewing machine will give you a more polished finish.
Once you have your tools, you’re ready to start cutting. First, put on the jeans and mark the length you want them to be. Then, take off the jeans and lay them flat on a table. Fold up the bottom hem to the desired length and press it down with an iron. This will help create a crease that will make it easier to cut a straight line. Now, carefully cut along the crease, being careful not to cut too much off. Once you’ve cut the hem, fold it up again and press it down with the iron. Then, sew the hem in place, either by machine or by hand. And that’s it! You’ve now successfully hemmed your jeans and given them the perfect fit.
Sizing Up the Situation
Before you grab a pair of scissors, take a moment to assess the situation at hand. Here are some factors to consider:
1. The Type of Jeans:
Not all jeans are created equal. Consider the following:
- Raw denim: These jeans are typically unwashed and have a stiff, indigo color. They have a tendency to stretch slightly over time, so you may want to cut them a bit longer to compensate.
- Washed denim: These jeans have been through a washing process, which makes them softer and more comfortable. They are generally less likely to stretch, so you can cut them closer to your desired length.
- Stretch denim: Made with a blend of denim and elastic fibers, these jeans offer added stretch for comfort. Due to their stretchy nature, you can cut them even shorter than you would washed denim.
2. The Amount of Fabric:
Examine the excess fabric below the hem. If there is only a small amount (less than 2 inches), it may be easier to roll up the cuffs or create a folded hem instead of cutting. However, if the excess fabric is significant (over 2 inches), cutting may be the best option.
3. Your Desired Fit:
Consider how you want the jeans to fit around your ankles. Do you prefer a cropped, ankle-length fit or a slightly longer, stacked fit? Your personal preference will determine how much fabric you need to remove.
Choosing the Right Tools
Selecting the appropriate tools is essential for a clean and precise cut. Here are some necessary items:
- Sharp Scissors: Fabric scissors or a rotary cutter provide clean and even cuts. Avoid using regular scissors, as they can fray the denim.
- Measuring Tape or Ruler: Measure the desired length accurately to ensure a precise cut.
- Chalk or Fabric Marker: Outline the cutting line to guide your scissors or rotary cutter.
- Sewing Machine (Optional): If you want to hem the jeans after cutting, a sewing machine is helpful, but it’s not essential for a basic cut.
Choosing Scissors or a Rotary Cutter
The choice between scissors and a rotary cutter depends on your preference and the size of the jeans. Scissors offer more control and precision, especially for intricate cuts. Rotary cutters, on the other hand, are faster and can handle larger pieces of fabric more easily.
| Tool | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Scissors | Precise cuts, easy to control | Slower, less efficient for large cuts |
| Rotary Cutter | Fast, efficient for larger cuts | Less control, requires a cutting mat |
Marking the Cut Line
Once you have determined the desired length of your jeans, it’s time to mark the cut line. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you cut jeans that are too long accurately:
1. Lay Jeans Flat and Fold Hem
Unfold the hem of your jeans and lay them flat on a clean and stable surface. Make sure the legs are straight and aligned.
2. Measure and Mark Desired Length
Using a measuring tape, measure the length you want to cut from the bottom of the inseam (the inside leg seam) or the desired length from the floor. Mark this point with a fabric marker or chalk.
3. Fold Jeans and Mark Cut Line
Fold the jeans in half lengthwise, aligning the legs and the inseams. Use a straight edge or ruler to mark the cut line parallel to the original hem, connecting the marked points on both legs. This line should be perpendicular to the side seams of the jeans.
| Tips for Marking the Cut Line: |
|---|
| – Use a sharp fabric marker or chalk to create a visible line. |
| – Double-check your measurements before marking the line. |
| – If necessary, use pins to hold the jeans in place while marking. |
| – Mark the line slightly above the desired cutting point to allow for a small hem. |
Cutting the Jeans
Now that you have all your tools and have decided how much you want to cut off, you’re ready to start cutting. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Fold the jeans in half lengthwise and line up the inseams. This will help you to ensure that you are cutting both legs evenly.
- Measure up from the bottom hem the desired length you want to cut off. Mark this point with a piece of chalk or a fabric marker.
- Use a sharp pair of scissors to cut straight across the bottom hem. Be careful not to cut too much off, you can always cut more off later if needed.
- Unfold the jeans and try them on to make sure they are the desired length. If they are too long, you can always cut off more.
Here are some additional tips for cutting jeans:
- If you are unsure how much to cut off, start by cutting off a small amount and then try on the jeans. You can always cut off more later if needed.
- Use a sharp pair of scissors to get a clean cut. Dull scissors will fray the denim and make it look messy.
- Be careful not to cut too much off. You can always cut off more later, but you can’t add it back on if you cut off too much.
Once you have cut the jeans to the desired length, you can finish them off by hemming them. There are a variety of different ways to hem jeans, so choose the method that you are most comfortable with.
Measuring and Hemming the Raw Edge
1) **Fold the jeans and put the leg on a flat surface.** Make sure the fold is at the desired length, add about 1 inch to the fold for the hem allowance. Pin the fold in place at the desired length.
2) **Mark the desired length with chalk or fabric marker.** Use a ruler or measuring tape to mark the length on the inside of the jeans, aligning the measurement with the raw edge.
3) **Unfold the jeans and press the fold.** Use an iron on a low-heat setting to press the fold in place, creating a sharp crease.
4) **Fold the jeans again along the crease.** Align the raw edge with the pressed crease and pin in place. Use a sewing machine or hand-sew the hem, using a small stitch length for a secure hold.
5) **Hemming with a Stitched-Down Hem:** For a more professional and durable finish, try a stitched-down hem. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
a) Fold the jeans up 1 inch from the raw edge and press to create a crease. Unfold the jeans and fold up another 1 inch, overlapping the first fold. Press again to create a second crease.
b) Topstitch the hem: Starting at one of the side seams, use a sewing machine to stitch along the top edge of the hem, catching both layers of fabric. Sew all around the hem, making sure to stitch close to the edge.
c) Fold the hem up and press: Once the hem is stitched, fold it up along the second crease you made, concealing the raw edge. Press the hem in place to set it.
d) Topstitch the hem again: Starting at the same side seam as before, topstitch along the folded edge of the hem, catching both layers of fabric. Sew all around the hem, again stitching close to the edge.
This stitched-down hem provides extra strength and stability, ensuring your jeans look polished and last longer.
Roll and Cuff Technique
The roll and cuff technique is a popular method of shortening jeans without having to cut them. It’s a simple and quick way to achieve a distressed, casual look.
Materials:
- Jeans that are too long
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Iron
- Optional: Ironing board
Instructions:
- Measure and mark the length: Put on the jeans and roll up the cuff to the desired length. Mark the length on the inside of the hem using a measuring tape or ruler.
- Unroll the cuff: Unroll the cuff and lay the jeans flat on a surface.
- Fold and press: Fold the hem up to the marked length. Press the fold with an iron to create a crisp crease.
- Roll the cuff up again: Roll up the cuff to the same length as before and press it down again.
- Repeat steps 3-4: Repeat steps 3-4 on the other side of the jeans.
- Distress the hem (optional): To achieve a distressed look, you can sand, fray, or rip the hem. Use a pair of scissors, sandpaper, or a razor blade to create the desired effect. Be careful not to cut or tear too much material, as this can weaken the fabric.
Tips:
- For a more permanent fix, you can sew the hem in place after rolling and cuffing.
- If the jeans are too long in the legs, you can use the roll and cuff technique to shorten both the hem and the length of the legs.
- Experiment with different cuff lengths to create different looks. A shorter cuff will give a more cropped look, while a longer cuff will create a more relaxed, bohemian vibe.
Banding Method
This method is suitable for those who want to cut the jeans without leaving a raw edge. It involves folding and sewing down the excess fabric to create a clean and finished hem.
- Try on the jeans and mark the desired length with a piece of chalk or a fabric marker.
- Fold up the excess fabric at the bottom of the jeans twice, creating a small hem. Pin the hem in place.
- Sew along the edge of the hem, using a straight stitch and a matching thread color.
- If desired, you can press the hem using a warm iron to give it a more polished look.
Tips for a Perfect Banding Hem
- Use a sharp needle and high-quality thread for a strong and durable hem.
- Make sure the hem is folded evenly to avoid any bulges or unevenness.
- Press the hem before sewing to ensure that the fabric is flat and free of wrinkles.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Mark the desired length and fold up the excess fabric twice. |
| 2 | Pin the hem in place and sew along the edge. |
| 3 | Press the hem to give it a finished look (optional). |
Fringe Style
For a more bohemian and unique look, you can opt for the fringe style. Here’s a detailed guide to cutting jeans with fringe:
1. Mark the desired length:
Determine the length you want for your jeans and mark it on the inside of the leg with a fabric marker or chalk.
2. Fold the hem over once:
Measure and fold the hem over by about 1 inch and iron it to create a crease.
3. Fold the hem over again:
Fold the hem over again by 1 inch, aligning the edges with the first fold.
4. Sew the hem:
Use a sewing machine or hand-sew the hem in place, stitching close to the edge.
5. Cut the fringe:
Starting about 1 inch above the hem, use sharp scissors to cut vertical slits in the fabric, spaced about 1/4 to 1/2 inch apart. The length of the slits will determine the length of the fringe.
6. Tease the fringe:
Gently tease the fringe with a comb or brush to separate the strands and create volume.
7. Trim the fringe:
Once you’re satisfied with the volume of the fringe, trim the ends to even them out if needed.
8. Embellish (optional):
To add a touch of personal style, you can embellish the fringe with beads, embroidery, or other decorative elements. Use your creativity to customize your jeans and make them truly unique.
Altered
1. Measure and Mark: Determine the desired length by wearing the jeans and marking the point where you want them to end.
2. Create Hem: Fold the jeans up to the marked point and press firmly to create a crease.
3. Stitch Hem: Using a sewing machine or needle and thread, stitch along the folded edge to secure it in place.
4. Trim Excess: Cut off the excess fabric below the stitched hem.
Adjustable
5. Front Fold with Button: Fold the bottom edge of the jeans up by about 2 inches and press. Create a buttonhole at the center of the fold and sew on a button to hold it in place.
6. Roll-Up Cuffs: Roll the bottom edge of the jeans up by 2-3 inches to create a cuffed look. Secure the cuffs with safety pins or fabric glue.
7. Cuff with Elastic: Sew a piece of elastic to the inside of the hem, creating a tunnel. Thread the elastic through the tunnel to create an adjustable cuff.
8. Side Slits: Cut slits along the side seams of the jeans, just above the desired length. Fold the bottom edge of the jeans up and sew it to the top edge of the slits, creating adjustable side slits.
9. Custom Hem: Create a custom hem by cutting the jeans at the desired length and adding fabric patches, embroidery, or other embellishments to the edge. This allows for a unique and personalized hem that can be adjusted as needed.
Finishing Touches
1. Fray the Edges (Optional)
If desired, fray the raw edges of the hem to create a distressed look. Use a pair of scissors to carefully cut small nicks along the edge of the fabric. Be sure to only cut a small amount of fabric at a time to avoid fraying too much.
2. Fold and Iron the Hem
Fold the bottom edge of the jeans up by about 1 inch (2.5 cm) and iron it in place. This will create a crisp crease along the edge of the hem.
3. Topstitch the Hem
Use a sewing machine to topstitch the hem in place. Topstitching involves sewing along the edge of the folded fabric to secure it. Use a thread color that matches or contrasts with the jeans, depending on the desired effect.
4. Bartack the Corners
To reinforce the corners of the hem, sew a few bartacks. A bartack is a series of three or four stitches sewn in an “X” pattern. This will help prevent the hem from fraying or ripping at the corners.
5. Trim the Loose Threads
Once the hem is complete, trim any loose threads that may be hanging. This will give the jeans a clean and finished look.
6. Wash and Dry the Jeans
Wash and dry the jeans to set the hem in place. The heat from the dryer will help to shrink the fabric slightly, which will make the hem more secure.
7. Wear and Enjoy!
Congratulations! You have successfully cut your jeans to the perfect length. Now you can wear them with confidence and enjoy the perfect fit.
How To Cut Jeans That Are Too Long
Cutting jeans to the perfect length is a simple task that can be done easily at home with just a few basic tools. Follow these steps to get a professional-looking finish every time.
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Try on your jeans and mark the desired length with a piece of chalk or fabric marker.
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Lay the jeans on a flat surface and fold them over at the desired length. Make sure the hem is even on both sides.
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Use a sharp pair of scissors to cut the jeans along the marked line.
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Turn the jeans right side out and fold the hem up by 1-2 inches.
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Press the hem in place with a hot iron.
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Topstitch the hem in place using a sewing machine or by hand.
