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How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening)

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  1. How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Defective hem: step 1, image 1 of 3 How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Defective hem: step 1, image 2 of 3 How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Defective hem: step 1, image 3 of 3
    • Identify the defective area and assess how large the damage is.

  2. How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Prepare the hem: step 2, image 1 of 3 How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Prepare the hem: step 2, image 2 of 3 How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Prepare the hem: step 2, image 3 of 3
    • Use a "seam ripper" tool to unstitch the original hem.

    • Unfold the hem.

    • Draw line above the defective part that you want to remove.

  3. How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Cut and invert the item: step 3, image 1 of 3 How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Cut and invert the item: step 3, image 2 of 3 How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Cut and invert the item: step 3, image 3 of 3
    • Cut along the line and set the removed piece aside.

    • Turn the item inside-out.

  4. How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Mark out the new hem: step 4, image 1 of 3 How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Mark out the new hem: step 4, image 2 of 3 How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Mark out the new hem: step 4, image 3 of 3
    • Draw a 1st line 2 cm from the edge - and a 2nd line with 2cm on top of it.

    • Fold the new hem twice on those lines.

  5. How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Iron and pin the hem: step 5, image 1 of 3 How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Iron and pin the hem: step 5, image 2 of 3 How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Iron and pin the hem: step 5, image 3 of 3
    • Set up the iron on moderate heat without stream

    • Fixed the folded hem by ironing and then with pins.

  6. How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Sewing the new hem: step 6, image 1 of 3 How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Sewing the new hem: step 6, image 2 of 3 How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Sewing the new hem: step 6, image 3 of 3
    • Use a sewing machine to fix the hem.

    • Stitch 2mm from the edge and add a locking stitch at both ends.

    • Stitch the 2nd line parallel with the first.

    • Cut the extra thread to make a clean finished seam. Turn the item right-way-round.

  7. How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Finished and ready!: step 7, image 1 of 3 How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Finished and ready!: step 7, image 2 of 3 How to repair a trouser/cuff hem (by shortening), Finished and ready!: step 7, image 3 of 3
    • 🛠️🏆👏 Congratulations! The repair is complete, and you're ready to go!

Conclusion

In need of another repair? Don't worry! Check out our other guides to find quick solutions for your favourite clothing, footwear and equipment!

Ben Blischke

Member since: 07/19/23

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41 Guides authored

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