How to Measure Jeans for Hemming With Bonding Tape

Hem jeans instead of cuffing them.

Most women's jeans are not sold in a choice of lengths; they have to be hemmed to the correct length. Professional alterations can cost almost as much as the jeans; instead, measure and cut the jeans to the perfect length for hemming, then hem them with bonding tape and an iron. You can make this simple alteration without sewing a stitch. Bonding tape is also called fusible hem tape or iron-on hem tape. It is sold in fabric, craft and discount stores.

Things You'll Need

• Straight pins
• Seam gauge or ruler
• Iron

Instructions

1. Put on the pants and turn the cuffs up the desired amount. A good length for jeans is to the top of the heel of your shoe.

2. Pin this hem in place, and take off the pants.

3. Measure from the bottom of the pants to the fold, around both legs, to be sure the distance is even on both legs. Adjust the hem if necessary.

4. Measure 1 1/4 inch from the fold and mark this point with a pin. Measure and mark this distance all the way around both pants legs.

5. Cut along the row of pins, removing the pins as you go.

6. Unfold the pants and turn them wrong side out. Iron up 1/2 inch along the cut edge. Iron up another 3/4 inch along the same edge. The pants are now ready to hem with bonding tape.

Tips & Warnings

• Follow the directions on the bonding tape package for best results.