How to Alter Pants Length by Hand
Are you looking to customize your favorite pair of pants but don’t want to spend a fortune on alterations? Altering pants length by hand is a simple and cost-effective solution. Whether you need to shorten or lengthen your pants, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.
Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
– Scissors
– Measuring tape
– Pins
– Seam ripper (if needed)
– Thread and needle
– Fabric marker or chalk
Step 1: Measure and Mark
Start by measuring the pants from the crotch seam to the desired length. Use the measuring tape to ensure accuracy. Mark the new length on the pants with a fabric marker or chalk.
Step 2: Remove the Waistband
If you’re shortening the pants, remove the waistband. Use the seam ripper to carefully unravel the stitching and remove the waistband. Set it aside for later.
Step 3: Cut the Pants
Place the pants on a flat surface and align the marked line with the edge of the fabric. Use the scissors to cut the pants along the marked line. If you’re lengthening the pants, you’ll need to add extra fabric to the bottom hem. In this case, fold the bottom hem up to the desired length and pin it in place.
Step 4: Hem the Pants
For shortening pants, fold the bottom edge up to the desired length, creating a new hem. For lengthening pants, fold the bottom edge down to the desired length, creating a new hem. Pin the hem in place and press with an iron to create a crisp edge.
Step 5: Stitch the Hem
Using a needle and thread, stitch the hem in place. For a clean finish, sew the hem with a zigzag stitch or a blind hem stitch. If you removed the waistband, reattach it to the pants using the original stitching pattern.
Step 6: Trim and Press
Trim any excess thread and press the hem with an iron to ensure a smooth finish.
Conclusion
Altering pants length by hand is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few steps. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can easily customize your favorite pair of pants to fit your personal style. Happy sewing!
