How to hem trousers by hand
Shorten trousers neatly without a sewing machine using a measured double fold and an almost invisible blind hem stitch.
- Time
- 1 to 2 hours
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Cost
- Low cost
- Steps
- 6
- Checked
What you’ll need
- Hand sewing needle Search Amazon for hand sewing needles
- Matching thread Search Amazon for sewing thread set
- Pins Search Amazon for dressmaking pins
- Tailor's chalk Search Amazon for tailors chalk
- Tape measure
- Iron and ironing board
- Fabric scissors Search Amazon for fabric scissors
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Safety first
- Unplug the iron after use and keep it out of children's reach.
Step by step
-
Step 1: Mark the new length
Put the trousers on with the shoes you'll usually wear. Ask someone to fold the hem up to the right length and pin it, or check in a mirror. Do both legs.
Next: step 2 -
Step 2: Measure and mark evenly
Take the trousers off. Measure from the fold to the old hem and mark the same length all round both legs in chalk, so the hem is level.
Next: step 3 -
Step 3: Trim and fold
Allow about 4 cm (1½ in) below the fold line for the hem and trim off any extra. Fold the raw edge up about 1 cm and press, then fold up again along your marked line and press. Pin all the way round.
Next: step 4 -
Step 4: Thread the needle
Use a single or double length of matching thread and knot the end. Start at the inside leg seam so the knot is hidden in the fold.
Next: step 5 -
Step 5: Sew a blind hem stitch
Run the needle along inside the top fold for about 5 mm to 1 cm, then come out and catch just one or two threads of the trouser fabric right next to the fold. Go back into the fold and repeat. Keep stitches small and evenly spaced, and don't pull tight, or the hem will pucker and show.
Next: step 6 -
Step 6: Finish and press
Make a couple of small stitches on the spot in the fold, knot and trim. Remove the pins and press the hem from the inside.
Tips
- Hem jeans and heavy fabrics with a stronger thread, or take them to an alterations shop.
- Test the stitch on a hidden part first to check it doesn't show on the right side.
When to call a professional
For lined trousers, suit trousers with turn-ups, or jeans where you want to keep the original hem, an alterations tailor will do a better job.
Questions people ask
Can I use iron-on hemming tape?
Yes, for a quick fix on many fabrics, but it can come away in the wash and doesn't suit delicate fabrics.
How much should I leave for the hem?
About 4 cm is typical for trousers, but you can go narrower if you're short of fabric.
Sources
Checked 9 October 2026. We wrote this guide in our own words, using:
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Printed from howtoguides.uk/guides/how-to-hem-trousers-by-hand/ · Checked 9 October 2026 · General information only. For gas, electrics, structural work, medical, legal or money decisions, use a qualified professional.