A lot of people wonder why you take the total hem amount and cut this number in half. If I fold up 1" and sew at the top, it's 1" on the front and 1" on the back, meaning I'm eventually cutting off a total of 2" from the bottom of the pants. If your still unsure, pin your hem and try them on before sewing and cutting, this way it'll turn out perfectly. Sorry for the confusion and I hope this helps.
I feel like this only works if you know the quantity you want taken off. If instead, you've flipped up the cuff to what you want the new length to be, I think at 1:45 you have to measure to include the hem as well, divide that number by two, and sew the cuff at that length. Otherwise, you'll end up with pants that are slightly too long (the length of the hem, ~1/2") each time. For example, my pants are 30" total and I try them on and roll the cuff up to where I want the new hem. Now they're 26" pants. I'm taking off 4", but the hem is 1/2" so the part you 're saying to measure (and the length you're taking off) would only be 3.5", leaving the pants at 26.5".
@@bgclarinet I am 5'2" & I decided to start hemming my own jeans to save money. I did 4 pairs of jeans using this method of measurement & although I'd rather have my jeans too long vs too short, all 4 pairs were 1/2" longer than I wanted them to be. You can still use this method to measure but instead of pinning it at 1" like she did, add the hem measurement amount (in my case it was 1/2") to that halved number. In this case, 1/2" + 1" = 1.5" so pin @ 1.5" - Perfect every time.
This tutorial is brilliant. I just did this for two pairs of jeans this weekend. They came out perfectly. I've never touched a sewing machine, until now.
Brilliant!! For years i’ve had a rubbish hem on my jeans when shortening them... but no more!! Have just shortened 3 new pairs of Superdry shorts... Ruddy perfect, distressed look an all, and i’m a 70 year old guy whos only ever hand sown a few things before. I have been staring at that sowing machine for years (one of the only things my wife left when she buggered off), it’s now my best friend thanks to your vid!! Oh, and the one that showed me where the cotton goes on the machine... Thank you!!
I'm a beginner (very novice) sewer, and after watching your video I tried to hem my daughter's jeans and they came out perfect! I can't thank you enough. Your video was so clear to follow. Can't wait for my next project. Thank you!
I watched several tutorials on this and yours is by far: 1) has the best quality video and audio 2) has the most clear and concise instructions Thank you!
Thank you! I am horrible at sewing but wanted to preserve a decorative hem on a pair of pajama bottoms that were too long. Your instructions were so clear and complete that I was able to shorten them and keep the original hem. Yay!
My husband bought my first sewing machine for Mother's Day (after I heavily hinted ;) and this was my first *ever* project, and it worked so well. My husband is so pleased, and I'm so happy I can do this by myself! My second project is going to be pillow covers with zippers. Subscribed!
Julie Xiong don't listen to her on that, everyone has their own style I personally love cuffing my distressed jeans and regular jeans but I need to hem it so I can do it even now
This is the very best hemming jeans video I have seen, the instruction are given in a clear and easy to follow manner, I have a sewing machine sitting idle for a few years, came across this video, thought, I'll give this a go, now I have shortened three pairs of jeans , and its all down to this wonderful Lady, Thank you.
After watching this video, I just used this for three new pairs of jeans. How have I lived for 50 years and not known this trick?! Nice job and thank you so much for sharing!
BG Clarinet below commented that after you fold back the cuff to the desired fit length you should "include the original hem when measuring" from the bottom edge and before dividing by 2 to determine the material to be shortened out. After trying your method and hers I believe she is correct (try it with a strip of paper pretending it's a pants leg to convince yourself). If you do not include the hem in the measurement, your pants will be too long by the length of the original hem, and especially noticeable if the original hem is very wide. Nonetheless you have a very nice, informative video!
Fantastic method for jeans. I always hated when they were hemmed and it was so noticeable due to the conventional method. I'm a dude and currently having my Mom give me sewing lessons on the sewing machine. She taught me as a kid basic hand sewing. I think it's smart for dudes to learn this stuff. Between my Mom and UA-cam, I want to learn not just hemming but will/am learning how to take in the waist on pants, sizing down a t shirt and also the easy method of turning baggy jeans to slim/skinny ones. Thank you for the video. My mom will love it.
I am a newbie to sewing, made a promise that was...beyond my skill lol and this video saved me! Thank you for this tip it was so easy and turned out great!
I've been sewing (buttons, experiments) for 25+ years, but never hemmed and was shocked I accidentally ordered jeans for tall, and 5 inches needed to be hemmed & I didn't want a raw hem; long story short, I found your video & it gave me the confidence I needed to hem them myself and I did... Perfectly!! Thank you much!!!
Thank you for the tutorial. I have 3 pair of new jeans i needed to hem, my wife wanted me to take them to a seamstress but after watching the video i was confident i could do it myself. Just finished my 2nd pair. they look great and my wife conceded that you can't tell that they have been hemmed.
I have been sewing on and off for years. I am self taught. This video has been the best by far. It is very clear. I really like the fact you actually show the sewing process slowly. And you explain the foot needed and the placement of the foot on the material. Thanks so much.
Amazing results. My daughter and her college friend could not tell it was done at home. Absolutely perfect step by step instructions with detailed explanations as to why the step is important. A big thanks to you 😊
hint for Moms: don't cut off the excess fabric. Just whip stitch it down and forgo the topstitching. You can let it out later for your growing kid, or another kid!! Mom of 4 here.
2degucitas it's called the trickle down effect. If you have kids, especially boys, passing down jeans and shirts are a given. When I was little all the boys had their jeans folded up and as the school year progressed it came down more and more LOL
My mom dug out some early 2000s jeans recently that were too long for her liking now. I just hemmed both of them and they turned out great! This tutorial was really easy to follow! I appreciate it!
I figured this myself when I was 15 years old and since been doing it. There are also fabric tapes to prevent it from folding in addition to stitching the corners.
You can also use iron on seam tapes for the excess fabric. This will keep you from catching your feet or legs on the leftover, and you won’t have to topstitch it down. It can be removed later if you choose to let out your jeans. Thanks Professor Pincushion for this clear and understandable tutorial. I’m subscribing to your channel. 👍🏻☺️
Just did this tonight on a pair of jeans with flare but it worked great! Just need to be diligent about keeping things lined up. I have not touched my sewing machine in probably 10 years. Truthfully, I just don’t like sewing. This video was easy to follow and my jeans look great!!! Thank you!
After watching the video, I got on the sewing machine and it turned out better than I expected. Thanks for your help and time in making this video. God bless!🙏
Excellent tutorial...I did the jeans for my neighbours husband...after a false start...I didn't halve the measure and realised before I cut them they looked too short so watched the video again. I needed to take the up 7cm. I measured and pinned 7cm but of course sewing them against the hem line I had double that. Unpicked them ...did the turn up 3.5 cm and they fitted perfectly. I didn't cut the excess off as he liked the strength and neatness of the finished work. I just sewed up each side of the overlap inside the sides of the leg you can't see they were taken up at all.
This is a great tutorial! I have been needing to hem a pair of jeans for the longest time. Today was the day! Easy to follow instructions, especially for someone who is not a 'strong' seamstress. I am super proud of myself for getting this done! And it looks good too!! Thank you!!!
Thank you so much Professor Pin Cushion for your taking up jeans. This video tip has been so helpful to me as I have just finished taking up three pairs of jeans and they look just as they did when I brought them home. They have their original hems but are a perfect length for the wearer.. You are a genius!
This technique is just brilliant! I have just used it on a pair of Tommy Hillfiger flared jeans that I’ve had in the cupboard for over 10 years and never worn because of the length. I cannot wait to wear them now I’ve taken them up! Thanks Professor Pincushion 🎉
Thank you SO MUCH for this video! I am 5'4" with a non standard inseam. Short length is too short and regular length is too long. I just hemmed up 2 pair of jeans in no time with help from your video. Your instructions are clear and easy to follow. I've subscribed as well:)
Thank you! This was very helpful. I only occasionally use my sewing machine for repairs. I start a new job Monday and then the only pair of jeans I managed to find are far too long for my petit leggies! So I’m hoping I can do this decently. Thanks for making it simple and clear
I just used this trick and if you don't look too closely (when I say this, I mean going all the way and looking at it), no one can tell. I have never sewed or used a sewing machine in my life but after watching this, I finished two pairs of jeans and they look great.
In already using a denim needle & thread, attach your machine's leveling presser foot to glide over the 3 layer bulky hem. Its the presser foot w/a black push button on the left side. It is far easier to sew garments correctly. Shortcuts are often sloppy or have too many time consuming steps! Distressing can be easily done w/bleach mixed w/lots of water ...
I keep coming back to your video over and over. I am always hemming jeans for my husband and brother. The side seams for my machine is where I keep having difficulty, but since I started using the zipper foot, it has been going a little better. At least I have fewer snags. Really love your attention to detail. I know there Is only so much one can fit into a video.
That was the best I was looking for something that would help me shorten these jeans without making it look stupid. You are such a good teacher. Thank you so much. 🌸🌸🌸
I'm 73 years old and I'm here to tell you, you can teach an old dog new tricks. I use to hem my husband's pants and dreaded it. He's short and you can't buy them to fix him nicely. This is wonderful, so now I have no excuse not to get them done. Thank you for sharing.
my speciality is wedding gowns and fancy gowns. recently my customers are bringing me regular clothes and I got jeans that needed an original hem. Omg, what to do? your tuts was excellent and while I was watching and listening within the first 5 min I got IT down and the jeans were done before your video ended. thank you! (the folding 1/2 shorter from the edge was the key!)
Have you ever had anyone complain about the way their jeans look after you’re finished? I would not be a happy customer if you handed me a pair of jeans that looked like this.
I have watched a few videos on “keeping the original hem”. Your’s is the easiest one to use. The other videos folded from the outside not the inside. Also appreciate the tips with the zipper foot.
I just followed this. Instead of topstitch I did some decorative flowers. The pewter didn't show up like I was hoping, but I'm still pleased. Thank you so much!
Have watched several videos on hemming jeans while keeping the original hem and this is the best one by miles. and all options are explained very well. Thanks for a super instruction video and also no loud music screaming in the background which seems to be the trend on so many instruction videos.
Thank you so much! I shorten 2 jeans keeping the original hems using your method. They look perfect! 😁 Also I didn’t cut excess fabric, gotta keep room for growing teen 😊
Excellent. Matching the color of the thread to the color of the jeans is very important. What is even more important is to be able to sew like the one shown in this video.
Thank you I needed to hem my sons paints the dryclean place wanted $12 a pair to hem so I went and bought a sewing machine and the last time I used a sewing machine was in homecik in highschool so off to UA-cam I went since I found your video after a few flaws and about 3 times watching I got it yay and im a guy too yes a man that can now hem jeans yay also while I was at Wal-Mart I found some fabric that I made a dress for both my girls rhe fabric was on clearance for $1.50 a yard n I can make 4 dresses cheap lol
Thank you very much for this detailed video. I've never hemmed anything before and I have a denim apron that was too long for me. These instructions worked perfectly. The only thing that wasn't mentioned was switching the presser foot back to regular for the zigzag stitch so I had to rewind and watch again that you were using a different foot. Thanks again!!
This is AWESOME!! I'm not afraid to do this anymore!!! THANK YOU, THANK YOU!! How can anyone put a thumbs down? That's ridiculous. I can't wait to try this. :-)
You. Are. A. Genius!!!! So easy to understand. I'm old. Wish I'd known sooner. I have an old indestructible Singer so it worked like a charm. Thanks so much.
I figured this out years ago but love the tip on keeping the fold inside uncut in case you want to lengthen them later on. However, I'm trying to figure out why the person providing the tutorial hasn't purchased a snap on zipper foot that is dual sided. They're very inexpensive.
Some companies don’t have one of those narrow zipper foots(feet???). Why? Who knows🥴🥴🥴. But using that other foot she mentioned should work. Sewing machines used to always have a narrow zipper foot included but somewhere along the line machine companies decided that a wider foot would work.
I'm so glad I found this video, my husband's new work jeans are too long and need a good 4 inches taken up! This will make it so much easier, I was worried how I would put a new hem in with my non-industrial machine. No need with this!
Yeah, it's pretty easy except for maybe the area with the side seam but just get as far as you can and then maybe do some hand stitches for that area if you feel it really needs it.
This was so very helpful and easy to follow. I just bought a pair of jeans that fit so well but even with my shoes/boots they were much to long. Now they are perfect and look fabulous. Thank you!
I did two pair today just like this. I love them. I wish we could post a photo. I googled what size needle. It said no 16. Wow, was that a wonderful needle for denim. I was pleasantly surprised! I cut 9”off because the girl wanted below knees so that meant 4.5” but it worked. I also added the white seam above using no 5 for length!
Hi Tova, I just hemmed my jeans using your instructions. It was very easy to do and the finished product looks very good. I procrastinated for a couple of days because I thought it would be hard but I was so wrong. Thank you for this video.
Excellent job explaining the process! When I was in high school the cutest clothes I had were the ones my mom made. She was always sewing something. Easter dresses, clothes for my daughter's Barbies, dance recital costumes. My fear is that in fifty years there will be no one left who knows how to sew, or crochet for that matter. It is going to be a lost art form. Well done, thank you.
Great tutorial; I only wish that I'd seen it before I got my jeans fixed by being cut up :( Oh, well; never mind, I'll know for next time :) Thank you for taking the time to make it and share it with us!
I used this technique on a pair of jeans that had a heavy white stitching on the hem that I couldn’t duplicate. Your technique worked great and was so easy!! The jeans look perfect!
i am a professional tailor and i hate doing this to jeans. its to much weight around your leg. also the reason u get rippled look on the hem is the heavy 100% cotton thread shrinks when they fade wash them at the manufacture. id u just cut them hem them with heavy 100% cotton thread that look comes back after a few washes. also no need to hand tack that fabric up there. just sew in the ditch from the right side. u will never know its there. 😉
Thank you so much. I have spent endless hours trying to figure out how to sew jeans hems. Ruined a couple of pairs. . this is understandable and looks super easy. I am going to try this, and I feel more confident thanks to you.
There is a far simpler way of doing this.... hem your jeans as normal, then distress the new hem by pinching small amounts of the fabric between your finger and thumb and lightly scuff the denim with a nail file, the glasspaper/sandpaper type,... it takes less than 10 mins to do, ... i will challenge anyone who thinks they can tell the difference.... job done ...lol :)
i agree. your method is way easier and looks better. the method shown in the video instead creates such a thick hem that prevents the fabric from falling and folding as it normally would and the end result is a stiff denim cilinder around your shoes that doesn't look good at all
Thank you for a great video. I was able get a great result. I'm 5'2" and finding jeans that aren't 6"+ too long is a real struggle. I have a sewing machine, but I'm not super confident in my ability to use it, but I easily accomplished this by hand.
With your method of measuring, you end up with your jeans, longer, by the depth of the original hem. If you first, fold it up further, the full depth of the original hem, and continued with your method, it would work. In other words, you should have first measured to the very bottom edge of the leg, which is the total length you want to remove, then divide it in half, measure that amount, as you did, from the top of the hem. Admittedly, most people don't notice 1/2", but some people are pretty picky about their length. Not easy to redo this method.
If you turn that pant leg wrong side out, you will be able to slip it over your free are and stitching will be much easier. Also, there is a "denim" color thread by Coats & Clark that blends very well with most jeans?
You would think so. In fact there is another video out there that does that very thing. I tried it and my jeans came out as high water pants. I ripped it out and tried again. Same result though not quite as drastic. I knew I had seen this video before so once I found it again I applied it to my jeans and they came out perfect. I’m not sure how it works, but it does. I trimmed away the excess once I was absolutely sure I was happy. Then I ran another layer of top stitch. They are a dark wash so you can’t even tell they’ve been hemmed that way unless you actually go looking. I’m getting ready to do a set of my husband’s old jeans this way.
I love this method but also ended up with longer jeans than I wanted when I folded them up and tried the pants on in front of the mirror. this is because when you fold the pants leg up to the desired length but then don't measure from the very top of the hem to the bottom, you will not be accounting for that 1/2" (or full inch for me) of the original hem that will be gained back once you fold back down the original hem.
Good video! Nice and clear. 2 comments. 1. I’ve never seen a zipper foot for only one side of the zipper! Mine slides to either side of the needle. Your machine should come with 2 if they are fixed. 2. A Denim needle is size 16 (or 18) - they make a huge difference when sewing thick fabrics like denim.
I just had this done by a local alteration place. they called it "vintage hem". looks ok. I don't like that there is extra stitch and you can still see the fold up close. I rather have it hemmed regular way and just wash it a few times to get the creases at the edge. interesting technique though.
You can take this a step further and get an actual professional look. She left out the most important step and left too many imperfections. Watch this video: ua-cam.com/video/eQ8CMCLS5rY/v-deo.html
I tried this and I am disappointed in the result. The hem doesn’t lay flat. I wish I would’ve done it the right way and cut off the bottom and turned up the hem. Finished hem would be more professional.
A lot of people wonder why you take the total hem amount and cut this number in half. If I fold up 1" and sew at the top, it's 1" on the front and 1" on the back, meaning I'm eventually cutting off a total of 2" from the bottom of the pants. If your still unsure, pin your hem and try them on before sewing and cutting, this way it'll turn out perfectly. Sorry for the confusion and I hope this helps.
WHAT WOULD YOU CALL ONE SIDE PRESSER FOOT YOU USED TO MAKE THE FIRST STITCH?
@@tonyloliya3006 I think she called it her zipper foot. Most machines come with one, but I've never seen one that looks like her's.
I feel like this only works if you know the quantity you want taken off. If instead, you've flipped up the cuff to what you want the new length to be, I think at 1:45 you have to measure to include the hem as well, divide that number by two, and sew the cuff at that length. Otherwise, you'll end up with pants that are slightly too long (the length of the hem, ~1/2") each time. For example, my pants are 30" total and I try them on and roll the cuff up to where I want the new hem. Now they're 26" pants. I'm taking off 4", but the hem is 1/2" so the part you 're saying to measure (and the length you're taking off) would only be 3.5", leaving the pants at 26.5".
Guess I should have read this before making my comment.
@@bgclarinet I am 5'2" & I decided to start hemming my own jeans to save money. I did 4 pairs of jeans using this method of measurement & although I'd rather have my jeans too long vs too short, all 4 pairs were 1/2" longer than I wanted them to be. You can still use this method to measure but instead of pinning it at 1" like she did, add the hem measurement amount (in my case it was 1/2") to that halved number. In this case, 1/2" + 1" = 1.5" so pin @ 1.5" - Perfect every time.
Thank you SO MUCH for going slow. Keeping the camera in focus, and not having your fingers in the way!!! ❤❤❤❤ Love this video
This tutorial is brilliant. I just did this for two pairs of jeans this weekend. They came out perfectly. I've never touched a sewing machine, until now.
How was it?! 'm thinking of buying too since I'm 5'0 and it's sooooo hard to find pants for my height
How long did it take you, start to finish?
@@JordanSmith-jd1ee I doubt it took me any longer than two hours.
Brilliant!! For years i’ve had a rubbish hem on my jeans when shortening them... but no more!!
Have just shortened 3 new pairs of Superdry shorts... Ruddy perfect, distressed look an all, and
i’m a 70 year old guy whos only ever hand sown a few things before.
I have been staring at that sowing machine for years (one of the only things my wife left when
she buggered off), it’s now my best friend thanks to your vid!! Oh, and the one that showed me
where the cotton goes on the machine...
Thank you!!
Good job Norwood!
I'm a beginner (very novice) sewer, and after watching your video I tried to hem my daughter's jeans and they came out perfect! I can't thank you enough. Your video was so clear to follow. Can't wait for my next project. Thank you!
I watched several tutorials on this and yours is by far:
1) has the best quality video and audio
2) has the most clear and concise instructions
Thank you!
thank you so much for the compliment! :)
Callahan Covington I agree with you. The I've seen.
Agreed!
Thank you! I am horrible at sewing but wanted to preserve a decorative hem on a pair of pajama bottoms that were too long. Your instructions were so clear and complete that I was able to shorten them and keep the original hem. Yay!
Thank you - worked perfectly. For people out there who, like me, don't have a sewing machine, it is really easy to do by hand.
oh good! I'm so glad it worked out for you :)
Yes, even though I have a machine, I was kind of thinking it would be easier to get right in the channel by hand
What!!!! Her instructions could NOT be more CLEAR and straight forward! I hav never touched a sewing machine and hemmed all my jeans after watching.
Absolutely outstanding video. My mother was a seamstress. Just one of the reasons I miss her.
sorry man :(
Man of us do.
I wish u wellbeing brotha🙌
Hope ur doing well, keep ur head up king or queen!
She is in a better place.
My husband bought my first sewing machine for Mother's Day (after I heavily hinted ;) and this was my first *ever* project, and it worked so well. My husband is so pleased, and I'm so happy I can do this by myself! My second project is going to be pillow covers with zippers. Subscribed!
Wow, she called me out by telling me to stop folding the bottom of my pants. Oof. I felt that
Julie Xiong don't listen to her on that, everyone has their own style I personally love cuffing my distressed jeans and regular jeans but I need to hem it so I can do it even now
2 in. Folding is good
I haaaate folding certain jeans or pants on me, it just doesn’t look right
This is the very best hemming jeans video I have seen, the instruction are given in a clear and easy to follow manner,
I have a sewing machine sitting idle for a few years, came across this video, thought, I'll give this a go, now I have shortened three pairs of jeans , and its all down to this wonderful Lady, Thank you.
After watching this video, I just used this for three new pairs of jeans. How have I lived for 50 years and not known this trick?! Nice job and thank you so much for sharing!
Linda Kay. you may not be as happy after you've washed them a few times.
Me too!
Amen!!!
BG Clarinet below commented that after you fold back the cuff to the desired fit length you should "include the original hem when measuring" from the bottom edge and before dividing by 2 to determine the material to be shortened out. After trying your method and hers I believe she is correct (try it with a strip of paper pretending it's a pants leg to convince yourself). If you do not include the hem in the measurement, your pants will be too long by the length of the original hem, and especially noticeable if the original hem is very wide. Nonetheless you have a very nice, informative video!
Fantastic method for jeans. I always hated when they were hemmed and it was so noticeable due to the conventional method. I'm a dude and currently having my Mom give me sewing lessons on the sewing machine. She taught me as a kid basic hand sewing. I think it's smart for dudes to learn this stuff. Between my Mom and UA-cam, I want to learn not just hemming but will/am learning how to take in the waist on pants, sizing down a t shirt and also the easy method of turning baggy jeans to slim/skinny ones. Thank you for the video. My mom will love it.
thanks for the kind words. So glad you found this tutorial helpful
I guess you could do any kind of lounge pants the same way as they won't be worn where you need them to look like they weren't touched. 😊
Going to try this hack tomorrow. Thanks! 😊
I am a newbie to sewing, made a promise that was...beyond my skill lol and this video saved me! Thank you for this tip it was so easy and turned out great!
Wow - this is 8 years old and it's helping me today! Thank you so much.
I've been sewing (buttons, experiments) for 25+ years, but never hemmed and was shocked I accidentally ordered jeans for tall, and 5 inches needed to be hemmed & I didn't want a raw hem; long story short, I found your video & it gave me the confidence I needed to hem them myself and I did... Perfectly!! Thank you much!!!
Thank you for the tutorial. I have 3 pair of new jeans i needed to hem, my wife wanted me to take them to a seamstress but after watching the video i was confident i could do it myself. Just finished my 2nd pair. they look great and my wife conceded that you can't tell that they have been hemmed.
it's like magic, right? :) I'm so glad it worked out for you!
I have been sewing on and off for years. I am self taught. This video has been the best by far. It is very clear. I really like the fact you actually show the sewing process slowly. And you explain the foot needed and the placement of the foot on the material. Thanks so much.
Amazing results. My daughter and her college friend could not tell it was done at home. Absolutely perfect step by step instructions with detailed explanations as to why the step is important. A big thanks to you 😊
What a godsend for us shorties. Always turning up trousers and keeping the original hem is genius! Thanks so much!
hint for Moms: don't cut off the excess fabric. Just whip stitch it down and forgo the topstitching. You can let it out later for your growing kid, or another kid!! Mom of 4 here.
I agree! that's a great trick :)
2degucitas EXCELLENT TIP!!
2degucitas it's called the trickle down effect. If you have kids, especially boys, passing down jeans and shirts are a given. When I was little all the boys had their jeans folded up and as the school year progressed it came down more and more LOL
The only problem is the line that's left showing.
2degucitas i
My mom dug out some early 2000s jeans recently that were too long for her liking now. I just hemmed both of them and they turned out great! This tutorial was really easy to follow! I appreciate it!
I figured this myself when I was 15 years old and since been doing it. There are also fabric tapes to prevent it from folding in addition to stitching the corners.
As a beginner, this is the first tutorial I've followed where I didn't have any issues. Thank you for this easy and concise tutorial!
You can also use iron on seam tapes for the excess fabric. This will keep you from catching your feet or legs on the leftover, and you won’t have to topstitch it down. It can be removed later if you choose to let out your jeans. Thanks Professor Pincushion for this clear and understandable tutorial. I’m subscribing to your channel. 👍🏻☺️
Just did this tonight on a pair of jeans with flare but it worked great! Just need to be diligent about keeping things lined up. I have not touched my sewing machine in probably 10 years. Truthfully, I just don’t like sewing. This video was easy to follow and my jeans look great!!! Thank you!
I'm so glad it worked out for you :)
Best video on hemming jeans! I hemmed my son’s and his friends’ jeans multiple times. You made me a hero!
Thank you for being so thorough and clear. Some of us sew only occasionally and don’t know all the great tips and hacks. 😊❤️👍👍
Even though I'm an accomplished seamstress, I refer to this video EVERY time I need to hem jeans! Thank you so much! You are so clear and concise!
After watching the video, I got on the sewing machine and it turned out better than I expected. Thanks for your help and time in making this video. God bless!🙏
so glad it worked out for you :)
Fabulous! Very understandable. I'm almost 5'1", and my mother is 4'11, so this will come in handy. Thanks!
Excellent tutorial...I did the jeans for my neighbours husband...after a false start...I didn't halve the measure and realised before I cut them they looked too short so watched the video again. I needed to take the up 7cm. I measured and pinned 7cm but of course sewing them against the hem line I had double that. Unpicked them ...did the turn up 3.5 cm and they fitted perfectly. I didn't cut the excess off as he liked the strength and neatness of the finished work. I just sewed up each side of the overlap inside the sides of the leg you can't see they were taken up at all.
I like how you go real slow with the machine..great tutorial ! Thanks
This is a great tutorial! I have been needing to hem a pair of jeans for the longest time. Today was the day! Easy to follow instructions, especially for someone who is not a 'strong' seamstress. I am super proud of myself for getting this done! And it looks good too!! Thank you!!!
Thank you so much Professor Pin Cushion for your taking up jeans. This video tip has been so helpful to me as I have just finished taking up three pairs of jeans and they look just as they did when I brought them home. They have their original hems but are a perfect length for the wearer.. You are a genius!
I'm so glad I found this! I'm going to hem all my pants this way. I always need to hem my slacks for work too.
This technique is just brilliant! I have just used it on a pair of Tommy Hillfiger flared jeans that I’ve had in the cupboard for over 10 years and never worn because of the length. I cannot wait to wear them now I’ve taken them up! Thanks Professor Pincushion 🎉
Thank you SO MUCH for this video! I am 5'4" with a non standard inseam. Short length is too short and regular length is too long. I just hemmed up 2 pair of jeans in no time with help from your video. Your instructions are clear and easy to follow. I've subscribed as well:)
Thank you! This was very helpful. I only occasionally use my sewing machine for repairs. I start a new job Monday and then the only pair of jeans I managed to find are far too long for my petit leggies! So I’m hoping I can do this decently. Thanks for making it simple and clear
One of the best tutorials I’ve seen on how to do this, thank you!!
I just used this trick and if you don't look too closely (when I say this, I mean going all the way and looking at it), no one can tell. I have never sewed or used a sewing machine in my life but after watching this, I finished two pairs of jeans and they look great.
In already using a denim needle & thread, attach your machine's leveling presser foot to glide over the 3 layer bulky hem. Its the presser foot w/a black push button on the left side. It is far easier to sew garments correctly. Shortcuts are often sloppy or have too many time consuming steps! Distressing can be easily done w/bleach mixed w/lots of water ...
Looks easy when you know how, love your nails.
Fantastic! There are many online instructions for hemming jeans, but yours are so easy it’s ridiculous. Thank you so much.
Great videos - broad subject range, clear explanations, and no "attitude."
I keep coming back to your video over and over. I am always hemming jeans for my husband and brother. The side seams for my machine is where I keep having difficulty, but since I started using the zipper foot, it has been going a little better. At least I have fewer snags. Really love your attention to detail. I know there Is only so much one can fit into a video.
This was so helpful, thank you! All the details and tips on exactly how to do things were well explained and demonstrated, exactly what I needed.
That was the best I was looking for something that would help me shorten these jeans without making it look stupid. You are such a good teacher. Thank you so much. 🌸🌸🌸
This makes hemming my jeans sooo simple! Ahhh thank you!
I'm 73 years old and I'm here to tell you, you can teach an old dog new tricks. I use to hem my husband's pants and dreaded it. He's short and you can't buy them to fix him nicely. This is wonderful, so now I have no excuse not to get them done. Thank you for sharing.
my speciality is wedding gowns and fancy gowns. recently my customers are bringing me regular clothes and I got jeans that needed an original hem. Omg, what to do? your tuts was excellent and while I was watching and listening within the first 5 min I got IT down and the jeans were done before your video ended. thank you! (the folding 1/2 shorter from the edge was the key!)
yay, I'm glad it helped :D
Have you ever had anyone complain about the way their jeans look after you’re finished? I would not be a happy customer if you handed me a pair of jeans that looked like this.
I have watched a few videos on “keeping the original hem”. Your’s is the easiest one to use. The other videos folded from the outside not the inside. Also appreciate the tips with the zipper foot.
This is a great tutorial for hemming jeans....thank you so much! I'm short and have struggled with hemming jeans all my life.
me too!
Me too!!
I just followed this. Instead of topstitch I did some decorative flowers. The pewter didn't show up like I was hoping, but I'm still pleased. Thank you so much!
How clever! And how much easier than the way I've always done it. Thank you.
Have watched several videos on hemming jeans while keeping the original hem and this is the best one by miles. and all options are explained very well. Thanks for a super instruction video and also no loud music screaming in the background which seems to be the trend on so many instruction videos.
Thanks for the kind feedback :)
Thank you so much! I shorten 2 jeans keeping the original hems using your method. They look perfect! 😁 Also I didn’t cut excess fabric, gotta keep room for growing teen 😊
Excellent. Matching the color of the thread to the color of the jeans is very important. What is even more important is to be able to sew like the one shown in this video.
Thank you I needed to hem my sons paints the dryclean place wanted $12 a pair to hem so I went and bought a sewing machine and the last time I used a sewing machine was in homecik in highschool so off to UA-cam I went since I found your video after a few flaws and about 3 times watching I got it yay and im a guy too yes a man that can now hem jeans yay also while I was at Wal-Mart I found some fabric that I made a dress for both my girls rhe fabric was on clearance for $1.50 a yard n I can make 4 dresses cheap lol
My mother taught me how to sew with and without a sewing machine when I was a kid, I'm 58 and still sewing.
Brian McConnell kudos!
Brian McConnell n
Good dad!!!
Brian McConnell congrats,
enjoy your hobby!
Thank you very much for this detailed video. I've never hemmed anything before and I have a denim apron that was too long for me. These instructions worked perfectly. The only thing that wasn't mentioned was switching the presser foot back to regular for the zigzag stitch so I had to rewind and watch again that you were using a different foot. Thanks again!!
You are an incredible talent and teacher! Thank you for all of your tutorials:)
I just hemmed my first pair of jeans using your method, and I was quite pleased with the results. Thank you for making this video.
Great video...wish I had known this years ago...worked like a charm!
Love this! My husband has such a short inseam and this is now going to save us so much money with his jeans. THANK YOU!!
This is AWESOME!! I'm not afraid to do this anymore!!! THANK YOU, THANK YOU!! How can anyone put a thumbs down? That's ridiculous. I can't wait to try this. :-)
You. Are. A. Genius!!!! So easy to understand. I'm old. Wish I'd known sooner. I have an old indestructible Singer so it worked like a charm. Thanks so much.
I figured this out years ago but love the tip on keeping the fold inside uncut in case you want to lengthen them later on. However, I'm trying to figure out why the person providing the tutorial hasn't purchased a snap on zipper foot that is dual sided. They're very inexpensive.
Some companies don’t have one of those narrow zipper foots(feet???). Why? Who knows🥴🥴🥴. But using that other foot she mentioned should work. Sewing machines used to always have a narrow zipper foot included but somewhere along the line machine companies decided that a wider foot would work.
This is genius! I told my client the bottom would be gone and she was fine with that but now I'm happy to surprise her! Thank you!
Thanks I'm going to atemt to hem 20 pairs of old Levi's given to me so much stronger than the new Levi's
I'm so glad I found this video, my husband's new work jeans are too long and need a good 4 inches taken up! This will make it so much easier, I was worried how I would put a new hem in with my non-industrial machine. No need with this!
Yeah, it's pretty easy except for maybe the area with the side seam but just get as far as you can and then maybe do some hand stitches for that area if you feel it really needs it.
I did this for my motorcycle jeans, thank you so much!
This was so very helpful and easy to follow. I just bought a pair of jeans that fit so well but even with my shoes/boots they were much to long. Now they are perfect and look fabulous. Thank you!
Your local tailor shop lost some business from this tutorial
they would not do it this way.
This is by far my favorite sewing tip / how to video. I have watched it several times. I shudder to think about how I used to do them. Thank you.
Absolutely love the painted nails!
Murray Snudge You are absolutely right rest of them this sucks
I did two pair today just like this. I love them. I wish we could post a photo. I googled what size needle. It said no 16. Wow, was that a wonderful needle for denim. I was pleasantly surprised! I cut 9”off because the girl wanted below knees so that meant 4.5” but it worked. I also added the white seam above using no 5 for length!
Hi Tova, I just hemmed my jeans using your instructions. It was very easy to do and the finished product looks very good. I procrastinated for a couple of days because I thought it would be hard but I was so wrong. Thank you for this video.
yay! I'm so glad it worked out for you! :)
Excellent job explaining the process! When I was in high school the cutest clothes I had were the ones my mom made. She was always sewing something. Easter dresses, clothes for my daughter's Barbies, dance recital costumes. My fear is that in fifty years there will be no one left who knows how to sew, or crochet for that matter. It is going to be a lost art form. Well done, thank you.
Great tutorial; I only wish that I'd seen it before I got my jeans fixed by being cut up :( Oh, well; never mind, I'll know for next time :) Thank you for taking the time to make it and share it with us!
+Yordanka O'Callaghan the next time will be better :)
Thank you for this tutorial. Just hemmed my daughter’s jeans and they came out perfect!
this was great!!! i am now inspired to hem alllllllll of my too long jeans that i've just simply cuffed.
+bug wilson yay, glad you found our tutorial helpful :)
bug wilson
last
I used this technique on a pair of jeans that had a heavy white stitching on the hem that I couldn’t duplicate. Your technique worked great and was so easy!! The jeans look perfect!
nice! I'm so glad it worked out for you. I've done it for a few of my jeans and they still look good :)
i am a professional tailor and i hate doing this to jeans. its to much weight around your leg. also the reason u get rippled look on the hem is the heavy 100% cotton thread shrinks when they fade wash them at the manufacture. id u just cut them hem them with heavy 100% cotton thread that look comes back after a few washes. also no need to hand tack that fabric up there. just sew in the ditch from the right side. u will never know its there. 😉
i know-its not clever if it doesnt work well in the long run--just distress new hem w sandpapaer duh!
Teresa Palmer is it possible to get the original hem from going jean pants to cut off jean shorts.?
sew in the ditch from the right side? can you explain, please?
make your own video and show us what you mean specifically then... what does wash them at the manufacture mean?
Can I use this method to shorten a dress?
Thank you so much. I have spent endless hours trying to figure out how to sew jeans hems. Ruined a couple of pairs. . this is understandable and looks super easy. I am going to try this, and I feel more confident thanks to you.
Excellent quality video and instructions, plus great options!
Fantastic tutorial. I used an edging foot to help me get has close as possible while hemming, I didn't own a narrow zipper foot. Worked fab!
Oh! I have one of those, thanks.
There is a far simpler way of doing this.... hem your jeans as normal, then distress the new hem by pinching small amounts of the fabric between your finger and thumb and lightly scuff the denim with a nail file, the glasspaper/sandpaper type,... it takes less than 10 mins to do, ... i will challenge anyone who thinks they can tell the difference.... job done ...lol :)
i agree. your method is way easier and looks better. the method shown in the video instead creates such a thick hem that prevents the fabric from falling and folding as it normally would and the end result is a stiff denim cilinder around your shoes that doesn't look good at all
Paul Shaw what will whiten shirts with polyester in them
Paul Shaw i
Paul Shaw that’s how I alter mine too... much easier
Interesting. I shall try this cause the seam allowance is too much for the method in the video. Thanks so much
Thank you for a great video. I was able get a great result. I'm 5'2" and finding jeans that aren't 6"+ too long is a real struggle. I have a sewing machine, but I'm not super confident in my ability to use it, but I easily accomplished this by hand.
Instructions not clear. I now have a pair of shorts that fit my cat.
Something is missing. How not to stitch the fold to pants. Gonna rewatch
And youre complaining?
Thats an up for me
Sabelo Carzon Pangilinan exactly like gurl make them a jacket too so they wont be cold 😂
Ha ha. It's not user error??
Mine died...
Thank you. It worked so well. I was a little nervous but your directions were clear and easy to follow!
hi!
may i know why did you cut the length from 2 inches to 1 inch?
it's 1" folded , so when it's unfolded that becomes 2". Does that help?
Thank you!!! This was so easy. I’ve been sewing for a long time and never thought of hemming jeans this way. Thank you for this easy fix👍
With your method of measuring, you end up with your jeans, longer, by the depth of the original hem.
If you first, fold it up further, the full depth of the original hem, and continued with your method, it would work.
In other words, you should have first measured to the very bottom edge of the leg, which is the total length you want to remove, then divide it in half, measure that amount, as you did, from the top of the hem.
Admittedly, most people don't notice 1/2", but some people are pretty picky about their length. Not easy to redo this method.
Zimtt zimitt 
If you turn that pant leg wrong side out, you will be able to slip it over your free are and stitching will be much easier.
Also, there is a "denim" color thread by Coats & Clark that blends very well with most jeans?
You would think so. In fact there is another video out there that does that very thing. I tried it and my jeans came out as high water pants. I ripped it out and tried again. Same result though not quite as drastic. I knew I had seen this video before so once I found it again I applied it to my jeans and they came out perfect. I’m not sure how it works, but it does. I trimmed away the excess once I was absolutely sure I was happy. Then I ran another layer of top stitch. They are a dark wash so you can’t even tell they’ve been hemmed that way unless you actually go looking. I’m getting ready to do a set of my husband’s old jeans this way.
I love this method but also ended up with longer jeans than I wanted when I folded them up and tried the pants on in front of the mirror. this is because when you fold the pants leg up to the desired length but then don't measure from the very top of the hem to the bottom, you will not be accounting for that 1/2" (or full inch for me) of the original hem that will be gained back once you fold back down the original hem.
Good video! Nice and clear. 2 comments. 1. I’ve never seen a zipper foot for only one side of the zipper! Mine slides to either side of the needle. Your machine should come with 2 if they are fixed. 2. A Denim needle is size 16 (or 18) - they make a huge difference when sewing thick fabrics like denim.
Awesome. No more cuffed and/or safety pinned jeans.
As a short person, it's amazing to wear jeans that are the perfect length, so I can relate :)
This was a amazing hack to shorten jeans. Thank you I got three pairs for my hubby done today. He was impressed. Thank you!😊
I just had this done by a local alteration place. they called it "vintage hem". looks ok. I don't like that there is extra stitch and you can still see the fold up close. I rather have it hemmed regular way and just wash it a few times to get the creases at the edge. interesting technique though.
You can take this a step further and get an actual professional look. She left out the most important step and left too many imperfections. Watch this video:
ua-cam.com/video/eQ8CMCLS5rY/v-deo.html
I tried this and I am disappointed in the result. The hem doesn’t lay flat. I wish I would’ve done it the right way and cut off the bottom and turned up the hem. Finished hem would be more professional.