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Hemming fleece pants does not necessarily have to be a problem. With the right techniques, it is pretty easy to alter your cozy bottoms for a perfect fit.
This guide will walk you through nine straightforward steps of hemming fleece pants like a pro. You will learn how to assess the length, prepare the fabric, and choose an ideal stitch while attaining this skill.
Mastering this will keep you in charge of your wardrobe while saving you some cash on tailoring. Get ready to transform those too-long fleece pants into tailored comfort for yourself.
Table Of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Say goodbye to the dreaded high-water look by ensuring your fleece pants gently fold at your shoe or achieve a cool ankle length.
- Conquer the beastly fleece fabric by pre-washing and identifying the nap direction. Treat it gently to avoid stretching.
- To hem fleece pants like a pro, opt for stretch stitches and a ballpoint or stretch needle. The zigzag stitch is your best friend for durability and flexibility.
- Prevent fleece from misbehaving while hemming by pinning securely, avoiding pulling, and using a walking foot or loose hand stitches to maintain stability.
How to Hem Fleece Pants?
Hemming fleece pants is much easier than you might think!
First, try them on and wear your perfect pair of shoes to get the ideal length—just above the ankle.
Pre-wash to prevent shrinkage; then gently handle the fleece to avoid stretching it.
Pin your ideal hem, measuring for uniformity.
Carefully cut using sharp scissors along the marked line.
Press edges with steam or dry techniques to get a smooth finish.
Select a stretch stitch that works with fleece fabric, threading the needle as directed.
Sew along the hem, then press again to give it that professional look.
You want to know how to make these like a pro? You are seconds away from perfection!
Assessing Pant Length
First you’ll need an assessment for the ideal hemmed length. Slip on the fleece pants, wearing the same general type of shoes you plan to wear when dressing in them.
The pant inseam should hit just above your ankle—avoiding that dreaded ‘high water’ look. Classic fit gives a slight break where fabric gently folds at your shoe. If you want more contemporary styling, try an ankle length or even a stacked hem.
Just remember that your aim is comfort! Measure properly so that you don’t have to worry about short or super-long pants due to hem allowance.
Preparing Fleece Fabric
Before you start hemming those fleece pants of yours, there’s some very important preparation to do with the fabric. Oh, fleece can be a little bit of a demon … but don’t worry, with a small amount of forethought, you’ll be just fine. First, pre-wash your pants to let out any probable shrinkage. Next, pay attention to identify pile direction by stroking your hand along the fabric – you’ll wish to sew with the nap. Handle the fleece gently to prevent its stretching. Just run through this checklist to make sure you’re good to go:
• Check for even edges and trim if necessary
- Determine Hem width: normally 1-1.5 inches
-
Hand sew or machine hem
• Select appropriate thread color and weight
- Gather all tools before starting
Pinning and Measuring
You’re now ready to pin and measure your fleece pants for the perfect hem. Start by putting them on with the shoes you’ll typically wear.
Fold the excess fabric up to your desired length, ensuring the fold is precise and even. Use pins to secure the fold in place, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
For accuracy, measure from the floor up, marking your desired length with tailor’s chalk. Double-check that both legs are uniform in length.
Cutting the Hem
Now that you have pinned and measured your fleece pants, it’s time to cut. Hemming fleece—cutting the hem is one step that needs particular care. Break out your fabric scissors or rotary cutter, and get ready to trim away the excess material. Here’s what you’ll need to envision:
Sharp blades glided through soft fleece.
- A straight clean cut along your marked line
- Neat fabric edges ready for folding
Pressing Techniques
Now that you have cut your hem, it’s time to press. Proper pressing techniques can make or break how professional your finish is. You’ll need a few tools for pressing and the correct heat application to complete the job at hand. Here’s a quick guide on how to get this right:
| Technique Pressing | Heat Setting | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Steam Press | Medium | 10s |
| Dry Press | Low | 15s |
| Finger Press | No Heat | 30s |
Choosing the Right Stitch
The appropriate choice of stitch in hemming fleece pants will be geared at choices that allow for durability and stretch. The considerations are, hence, going to be the stretch stitch options that contrast with zigzag against straight stitches, then choosing the appropriate type of needle for your fabric.
Stretch Stitch Options
Once you press, it’s time to figure out which stretch stitch you’ll use with your fleece pants. You want to consider the thickness of your fleece and how much of a seam allowance you’re going to have. Your stitch tension needs to adjust accordingly.
If you’re sewing by hand, use a flexible sharp needle so it doesn’t break or give way as the fleece fibers tear.
After all, the right stitch can ensure that your hem stretches with the fabric so it continues to be comfortable and durable.
Zigzag Versus Straight
When hemming fleece pants, you’ll need to choose between zigzag and straight stitches. Zigzag offers more adaptability, allowing the fabric to stretch without breaking threads. Straight stitches provide a cleaner look but may not hold up as well to frequent movement. Consider your priorities: durability or aesthetics? For most fleece projects, a zigzag stitch is your best bet.
Needle Type Selection
When sewing fleece pants, use a ballpoint or stretch needle. These kinds of needles move through the fibers without catching on one of them.
Match your thread weight to the thickness of the fabric for perfect tension on your stitches.
For most fleeces, size 80/12 works well if you’re doing some hemming. Keep in mind that sharpness does affect the visibility of the hems; if you’re working with bulkier fleece, step up to a 90/14 for smoother stitching.
Threading the Needle
You’re almost ready to sew! Use a fleece-appropriate needle size of 90/14 or 100/16. Use a polyester thread that will blend with your fleece color; the yarn of polyester thread is stronger and more pliable than cotton.
Thread the sewing machine, then pull the thread through the end to leave about an 18" tail. If you’re planning on hand sewing, use a single thread; if you’re using a sewing machine, use a double thread. For invisible stitches, use a hand-sewing needle with a single strand.
Sewing the Hem
Now that your needle’s threaded, it’s time to sew that perfect hem. Start with a blind hem stitch for an invisible finish. Take small stitches on the pant leg and larger ones in the hem fold. Make sure your thread blends invisibly into the fabric.
Invisible hem methods can be used during hand sewing only by keeping the stitches out of sight. Note that variations in seam allowance may result in changes in the appearance of your hem, so here again, consistency will be important.
As you sew, occasionally turn the pant leg right side out to check for any visible stitches. You’re almost done – your DIY hemming skills are about to shine!
Final Press and Evaluation
Once you’ve sewn, give it one final press to set the hem of your fleece pants. Doing this at a low heat setting also prevents harmful damage to the material. Check carefully to see that it’s aligned and straight all around.
Now, try on the pants, walk around some, test for stitch strength and thread durability. Keep in mind, though, that fleece might shrink a bit when it gets washed, so be sure to take that into consideration when checking the length.
In hemming, be careful not to iron directly over the stitches.
If you’re satisfied with your result, congratulations! You hemmed fleece pants and took back control over your wardrobe while saving money in the process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do you sew a hem on fleece?
To hem fleece, fold the edge twice and pin it in place. Use a zigzag stitch or stretch stitch to sew the hem, as these allow for flexibility. You’ll want to sew slowly to prevent stretching the fabric.
Does hemming tape work on fleece?
Like Hercules taming the Nemean lion, you can conquer fleece with hemming tape. It’s a quick fix, but won’t last forever. For best results, use fusible web designed for fleece fabrics. Test on a scrap first.
How do you hem stretchy fabric pants?
To hem stretchy pants, use either a zigzag or a stretch stitch. Pin the hem, spacing the pins to allow the fabric to relax of its own accord. Then, with a ballpoint needle and polyester thread, begin sewing. Check tension and that the length of your stitches are correct on scrap fabric.
How do you shrink fleece pants?
To shrink fleece pants, wash them in hot water and dry on high heat. Repeat if necessary. You can also soak them in hot water, then dry. Be cautious, as excessive shrinking may affect the fabric’s texture.
Can fleece pants be hemmed without a sewing machine?
Mohammed, you’re in luck! Hemming fleece pants by hand with no machine is quite easy. Just pin it, fold it and hand-sew with a blind stitch. It’s a little time-consuming, but you’ll be rocking your tailored pants in no time.
How do you prevent fleece from stretching while hemming?
To prevent fleece from stretching while hemming, pin the fabric securely and avoid pulling it. Use a walking foot on your sewing machine or hand-sew with loose, even stitches to maintain fabric stability.
What type of needle works best for hemming fleece?
For hemming fleece pants, use a size 90/14 or 100/16 ballpoint needle. This type helps prevent skipped stitches and penetrates the fabric without damaging the fleece fibers, ensuring a smooth and durable hem.
Should interfacing be used when hemming fleece pants?
Surprisingly, 85% of sewers skip interfacing when hemming fleece pants. While not essential, using a lightweight interfacing can reinforce the hem and prevent stretching. Give it a try for a more polished finish on your fleece pants.
How to maintain the original cuff on fleece sweatpants?
To maintain the original cuff on fleece sweatpants, carefully unpick the cuff, hem the pants to the desired length, and then reattach the original cuff by sewing it back onto the trimmed edge of the pants.
Conclusion
These are the nine easy steps on how to hem fleece pants perfectly for that great, personalized fit:
check your length, prepare your fabric, pin and measure correctly,
cut the hem accurately, press,
select the right stitch, thread your needle,
sew your hem, and give it that final press.
Now you’re ready to alter your fleece pants with precision, and now you can do it yourself—save money and create better wardrobe pieces.
Enjoy major doses of tailored comfort you have made!
- sewingmachinebuffs.com
