You can hem pants at home by measuring your desired length, folding the fabric, securing it with pins, and sewing a clean line—either by hand or machine. It’s quick, easy, and saves you a trip to the tailor.
Hemmed pants make all the difference—they look polished, fit better, and boost your confidence. But figuring out how to hem them yourself can feel confusing, especially if you’ve never sewn before. Don’t worry. You don’t need to be a pro or have fancy tools. This simple guide will show you how to hem pants step by step—using beginner-friendly methods, clear examples, and a few tips to make it even easier. Let’s walk through each part together so you can fix those pants and wear them with pride.
Step-by-Step Guide to Hemming Pants
Step 1: Measure and Mark the New Length
Put the pants on while wearing shoes with the correct height. Stand straight and use a fabric chalk or washable pen to mark where you want the hem to fall. A good rule of thumb is to let the pants just brush the top of your shoes. Remove the pants and lay them flat on a hard surface. Use a ruler to make sure your marks are even on both legs.
Take your time with this part—uneven hems are easy to spot and hard to fix later. It’s best to double-check your marks with a measuring tape.
Step 2: Fold and Press the Hem
Fold the fabric under to the marked line. Use straight pins to hold the fold in place. Then, iron the fold to create a sharp crease. This helps keep the hem in place while sewing and gives a clean, professional finish.
If your pants are too long, cut off the extra fabric—leave at least 1 inch for folding inside. For help with pressing techniques, The Spruce Crafts has a beginner’s guide on how to press hems the right way.
Step 3: Sew the Hem
Now it’s time to sew. You can use a sewing machine, hand-sew with a needle and thread, or even use hem tape if you prefer a no-sew method. Here’s how each method works:
| Method | Tools Needed | Skill Level | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sewing Machine | Sewing machine, thread | Beginner | Fast, strong hold | Requires machine |
| Hand Sewing | Needle, matching thread | Beginner | Cheap, easy for light fabrics | Slower than machine |
| Hem Tape | Iron, hem tape | Beginner | No sewing needed | Less durable after many washes |
For hand sewing, use a blind stitch to keep the seam hidden. If you’re using a sewing machine, stick to a straight stitch about ¼ inch from the edge. For hem tape, follow the instructions on the product label and press the fold with a hot iron for a permanent bond.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Cutting Off Too Much
Always measure twice and cut once. Leave enough fabric for folding, or you’ll end up with pants that are too short.
Crooked or Uneven Hems
Mark carefully, then fold and press well. If you skip the pressing step, the hem can shift while you sew. Double-check each leg to keep everything even.
Using the Wrong Thread
Choose a thread that matches your fabric color and type. A bad thread match can make even a neat hem look messy. Cotton thread works for most natural fabrics, while polyester is good for blends.
Ignoring Fabric Type
Heavy denim needs stronger thread and longer stitches. Light cotton or polyester works better with fine thread and smaller stitches. If unsure, Threads Magazine offers tips on picking the right settings for different fabrics.
FAQs
How do I hem pants without sewing?
Use iron-on hem tape. Fold your pants to the desired length, insert the tape, and press with a hot iron. It’s a quick fix that holds well for casual wear. For extra hold, Real Simple recommends using double-sided fabric tape.
What if I cut the pants too short?
Try adding a fabric band to the bottom, also called a false hem. Choose a fabric that matches or contrasts stylishly. It’s a good way to fix the mistake and still wear the pants.
Can I hem jeans at home?
Yes. Use heavy-duty thread and a thick needle. Fold the hem to preserve the original seam look, or use a new hem for a cleaner style. Seamwork has helpful sewing tips specifically for denim.
How long does it take to hem pants?
Most people can hem a pair of pants in 30 to 60 minutes. It may take longer if you’re hand sewing or hemming thick fabrics.
Do I need special tools?
No. You only need basic sewing supplies: thread, needle or machine, scissors, pins, and an iron. Optional tools like hem tape or chalk can make it easier but aren’t required.
Final Thoughts
Hemming pants is one of the easiest ways to improve the look and fit of your clothes. With a few tools and simple steps, you can skip the tailor and do it yourself—even if you’ve never sewn before. From choosing the right method to avoiding common mistakes, you now have everything you need to get the job done.
Try it on an old pair first to build confidence. You’ll be surprised how quick and satisfying the results are. Ready to begin? Pick your pants, gather your tools, and follow the steps above—you’ll have a perfect hem in no time.
