How to Match Hems

If you are one of the many people who have to hem your pants when you buy them, you know matching both legs can sometimes be a problem. The problem often is in the person wearing the pants. No one has two legs of the exact same length, but some people have less discrepancy than others.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Pins
• Tailors' chalk
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• Ironing board
• Steam iron

1. Get a friend to help you measure the length while you have the pants on. Since you are matching both legs, be sure to measure both legs--measure from the inseam to just below the ankle and from the waist to just below the ankle. If you are going to wear the pants with heels, put the shoes on.

2. Allow for a hem facing. Depending on the type of pants, the width of the hem facing can be anywhere from ½ inch to 1 ¼ inches.

3. Remove the old hem if necessary. If the pants are excessively long, you can skip this step. Don't try to fold up another hem to shorten the pants or the hem might be too bulky.

4. Mark where to cut the hem and hem allowance with pins or tailor's chalk. Carefully cut the excess from the pant legs. Finish the seam.

5. Pin the hem in place. Lightly press the hem with the steam iron. As you put the pants on the ironing board, you should be able to tell if both legs are matching.

6. Try the pants on again. Ask your friend to look closely to make sure the hems are even. Make any necessary adjustments.

7. Sew the hem in place on the sewing machine. Or sew in place by hand. Remove the pins. Your pants are ready to wear.

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