Struggling to find the perfect length for your faux leather pants? Hemming this trendy yet tricky fabric requires a special approach.
While adjusting faux leather is more complex than altering regular materials, doing it yourself can significantly cut costs.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple, expert-backed steps to shorten your faux leather pants and share tips and tricks to ensure they look fantastic.
Ready to get started? Let’s dive in to “how to hem faux leather pants”.
Key Takeaways!
- Faux leather requires special techniques to hem due to its unique properties
- The no-sew adhesive method is quick and easy, perfect for beginners
- Hand sewing allows for precision but takes more time and skill
- Machine sewing is efficient but requires specific settings and tools
- Finishing touches like hammering and edge painting elevate the final look
Method 1: No-Sew Adhesive Method
The no-sew method is perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a quick, easy fix. All you need is some leather/rubber cement or fabric glue (preferred) and a few basic supplies.
Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
- Faux leather pants
- Leather/rubber cement or fabric glue
- Fabric clips or clothespins
- Measuring tape
- Chalk or erasable marker
Step 2: Determine Hem Length
Try on your pants with the shoes you plan to wear them with, and fold the pant legs up to your desired length. Use fabric clips or clothespins to hold the fold in place, and make sure the hem is even all the way around. Mark the new hemline with chalk or an erasable marker.
Step 3: Apply Adhesive
Lay your pants out flat with the wrong side facing up, and apply a thin, even layer of leather cement or fabric glue along the hem allowance. Be careful not to use too much, or it may seep through to the right side. Let the adhesive dry until it’s tacky and no longer wet.
Step 4: Fold and Press Hem
Carefully fold the pant legs up along the marked hemline, making sure the fold is straight and even. Press firmly along the folded edge to adhere the glued sides together, and use clothespins or fabric clips to hold the hem in place until the adhesive dries completely.
Step 5: Let Adhesive Cure
Allow at least 24 hours for the adhesive to cure fully, and avoid exposing the hem to heat or moisture during this time. Once cured, your new hem will be permanent and can withstand gentle washing.
Advantages and Disadvantages of No-Sew Adhesive Method
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Quick and easy, no sewing skills needed | Adhesive may not hold up over time or through washing |
| Achieves a clean, professional look | Requires specific leather/fabric glue |
| Ideal for beginners or quick fixes | Permanent hem, cannot be easily adjusted |
| No puncture marks from needles | Tricky to work with, glue can seep through fabric |
Method 2: Sew By Hand
If you prefer a more traditional approach or want to ensure a long-lasting hem, sewing your faux leather pants by hand is a great option. With a few basic sewing supplies and a little patience, you can achieve professional-looking results at home. Follow these steps to sew your faux leather pants by hand:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
To begin, you’ll need:
- Faux leather pants
- A leather hand-sewing needle
- Thread that matches your pants
- Fabric scissors, fabric clips, or clothespins
- A measuring tape and chalk or an erasable marker
Step 2: Determine Hem Length
Put on your pants with the shoes you plan to wear them with, and fold the pant legs up to your desired length. Use fabric clips or clothespins to hold the fold in place and ensure the hem is even all the way around. Mark the new hemline with chalk or an erasable marker.
Step 3: Trim Excess Material (Optional)
If your pants are too long, you may want to trim off some of the excess material before hemming. Use fabric scissors to carefully cut along the marked hemline, leaving about 1 inch of extra fabric for the hem allowance. Be sure to cut straight and evenly.
Step 4: Secure Hem Allowance
Fold the raw edge of the hem allowance under by about 1/4 inch and press it in place with your fingers. Use fabric clips or clothespins to hold the folded edge securely.
Step 5: Thread Your Needle
Cut a length of thread about 18 inches long and thread it through the eye of your leather hand-sewing needle. Tie a knot at the end of the thread to secure it.
Step 6: Begin Sewing
Start sewing at one side seam of your pants, inserting the needle from the inside of the hem allowance and pulling it through to the outside.
Take small, even stitches along the folded edge of the hem, making sure to catch both layers of fabric with each stitch. Continue sewing around the entire hem, removing the fabric clips as you go.
Step 7: Secure Thread and Finish
When you’ve sewn all the way around the hem, make a small knot on the inside of the hem allowance to secure your stitches. Trim the excess thread close to the knot and repeat the process on the other pant leg.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Sew By Hand Method
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Allows more control for a precise hem | Time consuming, requires patience |
| Creates a durable, long-lasting hem | Needs hand-sewing skills and leather needle |
| Subtle stitching for a professional finish | Stitches may be visible on right side |
| Hem can be adjusted if needed | Needle can leave permanent holes in faux leather |
Method 3: Sew By Machine
If you have a sewing machine and feel comfortable using it, sewing your faux leather pants by machine is a quick and efficient way to achieve a professional-looking hem. With the right machine settings and a few special considerations, you can easily hem your pants at home. Here’s how:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
To get started, you’ll need:
- Faux leather pants
- A sewing machine
- Leather or denim needle
- A polyester thread that matches your pants
- Fabric scissors, fabric clips, or clothespins
- A measuring tape and chalk or an erasable marker
Step 2: Prepare Your Sewing Machine
Install a leather or denim needle in your sewing machine. These needles are designed to penetrate thick, heavy fabrics like faux leather without damaging them. Thread your machine with polyester thread in a color that matches your pants.
Step 3: Determine Hem Length
Try on your pants with the shoes you plan to wear them with, and fold the pant legs up to your desired length. Use fabric clips or clothespins to hold the fold in place, and make sure the hem is even all the way around. Mark the new hemline with chalk or an erasable marker.
Step 4: Adjust Machine Settings
Set your sewing machine to a longer stitch length, about 3-3.5mm, to accommodate the thickness of the faux leather fabric. You may also want to slightly loosen the tension on your machine to prevent puckering or bunching as you sew.
Step 5: Begin Sewing
Fold the hem allowance under along the marked hemline and secure it with fabric clips or clothespins. Place the folded edge of the hem under the sewing machine foot, aligning it with the edge of the foot.
Sew slowly and steadily around the entire hem, removing the clips as you go. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of your stitching to secure the threads.
Step 6: Finish and Press
Once you’ve sewn all the way around the hem, remove the pants from the sewing machine and trim any excess threads. Turn the pants right side out and gently press the hem with a cool iron, using a pressing cloth to protect the faux leather fabric if needed.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Sew By Machine
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Quick and efficient for a fast hem | Requires a sewing machine and some experience |
| Strong, durable stitching | Needs special machine needle and thread |
| Allows you to easily sew through thick faux leather | Stitching is more obvious, less subtle finish |
| Professionally hemmed look | Seam may feel stiff or bulky |
Finishing Touches
Once you’ve hemmed your faux leather pants using one of the methods above, there are a few extra steps you can take to really elevate the look and ensure a crisp, polished finish.
First: Hammer Down the Hem
If you want an extra sharp and professional-looking hem, try gently hammering the folded edge with a rubber mallet or leather hammer.
Place the pants on a hard, flat surface and carefully tap along the hem fold. This helps compress the layers and create a crisp edge.
Second: Paint the Raw Edge
For an even sleeker look, consider applying a thin coat of leather edge paint to the raw cut edge of the hem allowance. This specialty product, available at most craft stores, helps seal the edge and gives it a finished appearance.
Use a small paintbrush or sponge applicator to apply the paint, wiping away any excess. Let it dry completely before wearing.
Lastly: Try On With Shoes
Before you call your hem job done, it’s always a good idea to try on your newly altered pants with the shoes you plan to wear them with most often.
Check that the length looks balanced and that the hem falls where you want it to—about 1/2 to 3/4 inch from the floor for most styles. Make any small adjustments if needed.
Troubleshooting Common Problems+Solutions
Even with the best techniques and tools, you may encounter some challenges when hemming your faux leather pants. Here are a few common problems and how to solve them:
Problem 1: Adhesive Not Sticking
If you’re using the no-sew adhesive method and find that the glue isn’t holding the hem in place, there are a few things you can try.
First, make sure you’re using a leather/rubber cement or fabric glue specifically designed for heavy fabrics. These adhesives are stronger than regular craft glue and will create a more durable bond.
You can also try roughing up the surface of the faux leather slightly with fine-grit sandpaper before applying the glue.
This helps create a better grip for the adhesive. Just be sure not to sand too aggressively, as this can damage the fabric.
Problem 2: Stitches Not Holding
If you’re sewing your hem by hand or machine and notice that the stitches are coming undone or pulling out, there are a few potential culprits.
First, check that you’re using a leather needle and polyester thread, as these are best suited for heavy fabrics like faux leather.
You may also need to adjust your stitch length and tension. A longer stitch length (3-3.5mm) and slightly looser tension can help prevent the thread from breaking or puckering the fabric.
If you’re hand sewing, try using a thicker thread or doubling up your standard thread for added strength.
Problem 3: Hem Looks Uneven
An uneven hem can be frustrating, but it’s usually an easy fix. If you notice that your hem is higher or lower in some spots, simply measure and mark the desired length again using a ruler or measuring tape to ensure accuracy.
If the hem looks wavy or rippled, you may need to adjust your sewing technique. When hand sewing, be sure to keep your stitches even and not pull the thread too tight. On a machine, try using a walking foot attachment to help feed the fabric evenly.
You Might Also Like: How To Fix An Uneven Hem? 5 Easy Steps (Expert’s Proven)
Problem 4: Fabric Looks Damaged
Faux leather is a delicate material, and it can be easy to damage it during the hemming process. To avoid this, always use the appropriate tools and techniques for the job.
Avoid using pins, as these can leave permanent holes in the fabric. Instead, opt for fabric clips or clothespins to hold the hem in place.
When ironing your hem, use a low heat setting and a pressing cloth to protect the fabric. If you’re unsure, test the iron on a small, inconspicuous area first.
And if you do accidentally damage the fabric, try using a leather repair kit or patch to cover the affected area.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to hem faux leather pants is a valuable skill for any fashion enthusiast. Whether you choose the no-sew adhesive method, sew by hand, or use a sewing machine, each technique has its advantages and disadvantages.
You can select the best method for your project by weighing the pros and cons and considering your skills and available tools.
With a little patience and practice, you’ll be able to achieve professional-looking results and enjoy your perfectly hemmed faux leather pants for years to come.
So go ahead, give it a try, and take your fashion game to the next level!
