How to Shorten Jeans – (Easy Sewing Method)

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Last Updated on August 15, 2023

Too-long jeans can be a common wardrobe woe, but worry not! This technique can shorten your jeans while keeping the original hem intact. This method is particularly suitable for jeans with straighter legs. The result will look seamless, and no one will suspect a thing. So, let’s banish the hassle of overly long-jeans and start achieving a polished fit.

How to Shorten Jeans
Image Source: Professor Pincushion

How to Shorten Jeans

Tired of long jeans? Try this quick method. Fold and pin to your desired length, stitch close to the fold, and trim excess. Finish with a zigzag stitch or hand tack. Enjoy your new, perfectly-fitted jeans! Below we have shared the full tutorial in detail step by step.

Materials Needed

Step by step guide

Follow this simple guide to hem your jeans while maintaining their original hemlines quickly. No more folding or fussing – let’s get started!

Try On and Pin

Try On and Pin
Image Source: Professor Pincushion
  • Put on the jeans and fold up the excess length to your desired level.
  • Lightly pin the fold to keep it in place.

Measure and Refold

  • Measure the folded length from the base of the jeans (excluding the top hem).
  • Divide this measurement in half.
  • Refold the jeans to match the half-length, aligning side and inside seams.
  • Secure the fold with pins, starting with side and inside seams.

Press and Stitch

Press and Stitch
Image Source: Professor Pincushion
  • Press the fold with an iron to make it crisp.
  • Take the jeans to the sewing machine and use a denim needle.
  • Stitch closely along the fold, ensuring not to sew into the original hem.

Trim Excess Fabric

Trim Excess Fabric
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  • Try on the jeans again to confirm the length is right.
  • If it’s good, trim the excess fabric, leaving a half-inch seam allowance.

Finish the Edge

Finish the Edge
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  • Change the sewing machine stitch to an overcast or zigzag stitch.
  • Stitch along the trimmed edge to prevent fraying.

Fold and Secure

How to Shorten Jeans
Image Source: Professor Pincushion
  • Fold the excess fabric to the inside of the jeans.
  • Press the bottom to keep it neat.

Secure the Fold

Choose your preferred method:

  • Machine stitch: Sew along side and inside seams to secure the folded edge.
  • Top stitch: Stitch along the folded edge for added security (match thread color).
  • Hand tack: Use a needle and thread to subtly secure the fold.

Tips on Shortening Jeans

  • Use a zipper foot on your sewing machine for precise stitching.
  • If you might need to lengthen the jeans later, opt for hand tacking.
  • Match thread color to your jeans for a seamless finish.
  • Practice on scrap fabric before sewing on your jeans.

Conclusion

That’s it! You’ve successfully shortened your jeans while maintaining their original hem. No longer long, bunched-up pants – now you have a neat and stylish pair that fits just right. Enjoy your newly shortened jeans and the ease they bring to your wardrobe. Practice makes perfect, so keep honing your sewing skills. Stay tuned for more helpful tutorials, and happy sewing!