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Got a great pair of jeans that are just too long? Whether you’re going for a no-sew fix or a traditional hem, hemming your jeans at home can save you money and let you keep the perfect fit.
The best part? You don’t need to be a pro to get clean, crisp results.
With the right steps, you can hem your jeans to just the right length—while keeping them looking like they came that way.
Step 1: Try On and Measure
Put the jeans on while wearing the shoes you’ll likely pair them with. Cuff the bottoms to the length you want—typically just grazing the top of your shoe or slightly above the ground.
Use straight pins or clips to mark where you want the hem. Then take the jeans off and lay them flat.
Tip: Don’t forget that jeans can shrink slightly when washed—so if they’re new, wash and dry them first before hemming.
Step 2: Mark the Hemline
With the jeans laid flat, use a ruler or measuring tape to double-check your pinned hem on both legs. Use tailor’s chalk or a washable fabric marker to draw a straight line where you want the new hem to be.
Then measure about 1 inch below that line for your fold allowance—this gives you space to fold the raw edge under for a clean hem. You’ll now have two lines: the final hemline and the cutting line.
Step 3: Cut and Fold
Carefully cut across the bottom jeans legs along your lower line (the cutting line). Then fold the edge up once to the marked hemline and press with an iron to hold it in place.
For extra durability, you can fold it twice (½ inch each time) to hide the raw edge completely—this is called a double-fold hem.
Optional: If you want to keep the original hem look, try the “original hem method” — fold the excess fabric up inside, leaving the original hem showing, and sew close to the existing seam.
Step 4: Pin and Sew
Pin the folded edge in place all the way around both legs. Use a denim needle and matching thread in your sewing machine. Sew a straight stitch around the leg opening, about ¼ inch from the edge.
Go slowly—especially over thick side seams—to avoid breaking your needle.
Tip: If you’re hand-sewing, use a strong needle and backstitch to secure the hem well.
Step 5: Press and Finish
Once both legs are sewn, press the new hems flat with an iron. This helps set the crease and gives your jeans a polished finish. Try them on again to double-check the length. If everything looks good, you’re done!
Final Tip: If you used the original hem method, press the fold inside the leg to make sure it lies flat and doesn’t bunch.
