Ever stumbled upon the ideal set of trousers, just to discover they’re excessively lengthy for your legs? This is a common frustration for me. Being on the shorter side, it’s often a task to find pants that fit just right. However, there’s no need to worry! By following a few straightforward steps, you can quickly shorten your trousers, making them appear as if they were custom-made for you in a flash.
Gather your tools
Before you get started, make sure you have the right tools for the job. You will need:
- A sewing machine
- A pair of sharp fabric scissors
- A measuring tape
- A pack of sewing pins
- A seam ripper
- Matching thread
Measure and mark
The first step in shortening your slacks is to measure the desired length. Put on the pants and fold up the hem to the desired length. Use the measuring tape to ensure that both legs are folded evenly. Once you have determined the proper length, use the sewing pins to mark the fold on both legs. This will be your guide when sewing.
Remove the original hem
Before you can start sewing, you will need to remove the original hem. Carefully use the seam ripper to unpick the stitches along the bottom of the pants. Take your time with this step to avoid damaging the fabric. Once the stitches are removed, gently pull out any remaining thread to create a clean edge.
Trim the excess fabric
Now that you have removed the original hem, it’s time to trim the excess fabric. Turn the pants inside out and fold them at the marked line. Use your fabric scissors to cut off the excess fabric, leaving a small seam allowance of about 1 inch. Be sure to cut straight and even to maintain a clean finish.
Hem the pants
With the excess fabric trimmed, it’s time to hem the pants. Fold the fabric up along the marked line and use the sewing pins to secure it in place. Set up your sewing machine with the matching thread and carefully stitch along the fold line. Go slowly and make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the seam.
Try them on
Once you have finished hemming the pants, give them a try-on to ensure they are the perfect length. If they still need further adjustments, now is the time to make them. Repeat the previous steps as necessary until you achieve the desired fit.
Final touches
After you are satisfied with the length of your slacks, give them a final press with an iron to create a crisp finish. Be sure to follow the care instructions for your specific fabric to avoid any damage. Now you have a perfectly tailored pair of slacks that are ready to wear with confidence!
Conclusion
Shortening slacks may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a little patience, it can be easily accomplished. By following these steps, you can customize your pants to fit your unique body shape and avoid the hassle of ill-fitting trousers. So go ahead, take your favorite pair of slacks and give them a custom fit that will have you looking sharp and stylish!