Are your karate pants too long, causing you to trip or look sloppy during training? Learning how to hem karate pants is valuable for any martial artist who wants to maintain a professional appearance and perform at their best.
Many karate uniforms come in standard sizes that may not fit everyone perfectly. This can cause the pants to drag on the ground or bunch up at the ankles.
Fortunately, with a few simple tools and techniques, you can easily adjust the length of your gi pants. This custom-fit will help you look and feel your best on the mat.
What You’ll Need
- Karate pants that need hemming
- Sewing machine or needle and thread for hand sewing
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Pins
- Iron
How To Hem Karate Pants? 7 Easy Steps!
Step 1: Preparing Pants For Hem
Before you start hemming your karate pants, it’s important to prepare them properly. The first step is to wash and dry your pants, even if they’re brand new. This will help account for any shrinkage that may happen during the hemming process.
You don’t want to hem your pants to the perfect length only to have them shrink and become too short after the first wash!
Once your pants are clean and dry, take a few minutes to iron out any wrinkles or creases, paying special attention to the existing hem. A smooth, flat surface will make it easier to create a neat, even new hem.
If your pants have an original hem that you want to remove, carefully use a seam ripper to pick out the stitches. This can be a bit tedious, but taking your time will ensure you don’t accidentally damage the fabric.
Once the old hem is removed, give the pants one final press to smooth out any remaining creases or folds.
Step 2: Measuring the Hem
Now that your karate pants are prepped and ready, it’s time to determine the perfect length for your hem. The key is to find a comfortable spot that allows for a full range of motion without the risk of tripping over excess fabric.
Start by trying on the pants and standing in your natural karate stance. Have a friend or family member use a measuring tape to find the distance between the floor and where you’d like the hem to fall, typically somewhere between the ankle and the top of the foot.
It’s a good idea to take measurements in a few different spots to ensure evenness all the way around.
Once you’ve decided on the ideal length, it’s time to mark the new hemline. With the pants still on, use either the tailor’s chalk or a fabric pen to make small marks or dots at the desired hem height.
If you’re marking them yourself, be sure to rotate slowly and keep the marking tool at a consistent distance from the floor.
You may find it helpful to stand on a short stool or box to make reaching the back of the leg easier. After you’ve marked the new hemline all the way around each leg, carefully remove the pants and lay them out flat on a table or ironing board.
Use a ruler or measuring tape to connect the marks you made, creating a smooth, even line. If needed, you can also measure it from the original bottom hem to double-check that the new hemline is parallel to the floor.
Step 3: Cutting the Excess Fabric
If your karate pants are way too long, you might want to cut off some of the extra fabric before hemming. This step is optional, but it can make the hemming process a bit easier and faster. Plus, it’ll keep your pants from looking bulky or weighed down by a super thick hem.
Before you break out the scissors, make sure you’ve got enough fabric left for a proper hem. A good rule of thumb is to leave about an inch or two below your chalk line. This extra bit of fabric will be folded inside the pants to create a nice, clean edge.
When you’re ready to cut, grab a sharp pair of fabric scissors. Regular scissors will work in a pinch, but fabric scissors are designed to cut through cloth smoothly without snagging or fraying the edges. If you plan on doing a lot of sewing in the future, investing in a quality pair of fabric scissors is a smart move.
As you cut, take your time and try to follow the chalk line as closely as possible. If your line is wobbly or uneven, don’t worry too much – the hem will hide minor imperfections. Just do your best to keep things relatively straight and consistent.
One important thing to remember when using scissors is safety. Always keep your fingers away from the blades and avoid cutting towards your body. If you’re working on a slippery surface like a metal table or hardwood floor, consider laying down a cutting mat or a piece of cardboard to keep the fabric from sliding around.
Step 4: Pinning the Hem
Now that your karate pants are trimmed to the right length (or not, if you skipped the last step), it’s time to get them ready for sewing. The first thing you’ll want to do is turn your pants inside out. This might seem a little backward, but it’s an important step that’ll make your life much easier in the long run.
With your pants flipped inside out, fold the raw edge of the fabric up towards the inside of the leg, using your chalk line as a guide. Make sure the fold is even all the way around, and press it with your fingers to create a sharp crease. If you’re having trouble getting the fabric to stay put, you can use a regular iron on a low setting to help set the fold.
Next, grab your straight pins and start securing the folded fabric in place. Begin at one side seam and work your way around the leg, placing pins perpendicular to the fold every inch or so. Make sure the pinheads are pointing out toward the raw edge of the fabric, so they’ll be easy to remove later.
As you pin, keep checking that the fold is lined up with your chalk mark and that the hem is even all the way around. If you notice any spots where the fabric is bunching or pulling, adjust the fold until it lies flat and smooth.
Step 5: Ironing the Hem
Before you break out the sewing machine or needle and thread, there’s one more important step to ensure your hem looks crisp and professional: ironing. I know, I know – ironing might not be your favorite activity, but trust me, it makes a world of difference in the finished product.
First, make sure your iron is set to the appropriate temperature for the fabric of your karate pants. Most gis are made from cotton or a cotton blend, which can typically handle a medium to high heat setting. If you’re unsure, always start with a lower temperature and work your way up to avoid scorching or damaging the fabric.
With your iron heated up, press the folded hem firmly, working your way around the entire leg opening. Be sure to pay extra attention to the crease you created earlier, making sure it’s sharp and well-defined. If you find that the fabric isn’t holding the crease well, you can try using a bit of spray starch or a damp pressing cloth to help set the fold.
As you iron, be careful not to let the iron linger in one spot for too long, as this can cause the fabric to shine or even burn. Keep the iron moving at a slow, steady pace, and don’t be afraid to go over the same area a few times if needed to get a nice, crisp edge.
If you encounter any stubborn wrinkles or creases, try using the steam function on your iron to help relax the fibers and make the fabric more pliable. Just be sure to keep the iron a safe distance away from the fabric to avoid any water spots or drips.
Step 6: Sewing the Hem
Now that your hem is pinned and pressed, it’s time for the main event: sewing! If you’re using a sewing machine, this process will be relatively quick and easy. If you’re sewing by hand, it may take a bit longer, but the basic principles are the same.
If you’re using a machine, start by setting it up with a thread color that closely matches your karate pants. This will help the stitching blend in and look more professional. Most gis are white or black, so you should be able to find a suitable thread color at any fabric or craft store.
Next, adjust your machine’s stitch settings to create a straight, even stitch. A medium-length straight stitch is usually sufficient for hemming pants, but consult your machine’s manual if you’re unsure which settings to use.
Before you start sewing, take a moment to double-check that your hem is still pinned securely and that the fabric is lying flat and even. If everything looks good, it’s time to start stitching!
Begin at one of the side seams, leaving a long tail of thread (about 4-5 inches) at the start. This will make it easier to tie off the thread and secure the stitching later. Backstitch a few times to lock the thread in place, then continue sewing forward, keeping the edge of the fabric aligned with the edge of the machine’s presser foot.
As you sew, try to maintain a slow, steady pace, guiding the fabric gently with your hands. Avoid pulling or pushing the fabric through the machine, as this can cause the stitching to bunch or pucker.
When you reach the end of the hem, backstitch again to secure the thread, then trim the excess thread, leaving another long tail. Tie the two thread tails together in a tight knot, then trim the excess close to the knot to keep it from unraveling.
If you’re sewing by hand, the process is similar, but you’ll use a needle and thread instead of a machine. Start by threading your needle and tying a knot at the end of the thread. Then, begin stitching along the hem, using small, even stitches and keeping the thread pulled taut (but not too tight) as you work.
When you reach the end of the hem, tie off the thread with a few small stitches in the same spot, then knot the thread and trim the excess, just like you would with a machine.
Step 7: Final Steps
Before you call it a day and head off to your next training session, there are just a few more things to do to ensure your pants look and feel their best.
First, carefully remove all the pins from the hem, ensuring that you do not poke yourself or snag the fabric accidentally. Give the hem a final press with the iron to smooth out any wrinkles or creases that may have formed during the sewing process.
Now, it’s time for the moment of truth: trying on your newly hemmed pants! Find a full-length mirror and put on your karate pants, along with the rest of your gi if you have it handy. Take a few moments to move around in your stance, throw a few kicks, and generally test out the fit and feel of the pants.
Pay attention to how the hem falls around your ankles – does it seem even all the way around? Is the length comfortable and appropriate for your height?
If you notice any spots where the hem is dragging on the ground or feels uncomfortably short, don’t panic! Hemming is an art, not a science, and it’s totally normal to need a few adjustments to get the fit just right.
If you do need to make any changes, mark the new desired hem length with pins or chalk, then carefully remove the stitching from the existing hem using a seam ripper or small scissors. From there, you can repeat the pinning, ironing, and sewing steps until you achieve the perfect fit.
What are the Advantages of Using a Sewing Machine to Hem Gi Pants?
Using a sewing machine to hem Gi pants offers several advantages. For starters, it’s much faster than hand-stitching, making it a go-to method for someone looking to shorten their martial arts clothing with precision and speed.
This is especially beneficial if you ever need to adjust the length outside of a tailor’s shop. Additionally, the finished hem is strong and durable, able to withstand the rigors of wear during class or competition.
With a sewing machine, one can ensure the modifications are barely visible, maintaining the sleek appearance of the Gi pants.
This method of adjustment is not only cool but also empowers individuals to personalize their fit, maybe even extending to other pieces like the belt or jacket, ensuring optimal performance and confidence in one’s martial arts clothing.
How To Hem Karate Pants By Hand?
Follow the steps below to hem karate pants without sewing easily.
Step 1: Determine the Desired Length
- Try on the karate pants and mark the desired length with pins, leaving some extra room for the hem
- Measure and mark the same length all the way around each leg
Step 2: Prepare the Pants
- If there is an existing hem, carefully remove the stitching with a seam ripper
- Wash and dry the pants before hemming to account for any shrinkage
- Iron the pants to remove any wrinkles, especially at the bottom where the new hem will be
Step 3: Create the New Hem
- Fold the raw edge of the pant leg up by 1/2 inch and press with an iron to create a crease
- Fold up again to the desired hem length, usually 1-2 inches, and press
- Pin the folded hem in place around the entire leg opening
Step 4: Hand Sew the Hem
- Thread your needle and tie a knot at the end
- Starting at a side seam, slip the needle inside the hem crease and bring it out through the pant leg about 1/4 inch from the edge
- Take a small stitch through the pant leg, then slide the needle through the hem crease for about 1/2 inch
- Continue this slip stitch all the way around the hem, keeping stitches loose but secure
- At the end, make a small knot and hide the thread tail inside the hem
Step 5: Finishing Touches
- Remove the pins and press the new hem with an iron for a crisp edge
- Try on the pants to ensure the hem is even and the desired length
- If needed, you can adjust the hem by removing the hand stitching and redoing steps 3-5
Is It Better to Hem Gi Pants by Hand or Use a Machine?
Whether it’s better to hem Gi pants by hand or use a sewing machine depends on several factors, such as the level of precision you want, your sewing skills, and how quickly you need the hemming done.
Hemming by hand gives you more control and may be necessary for heavy Gi fabric that’s difficult for some machines to handle.
However, a sewing machine can make the process much quicker and provide a more consistent stitch if you’re comfortable using it.
What are the Advantages of Hemming Gi Pants by Hand?
Hemming Gi pants by hand allows for:
- Greater precision and care in each stitch, which makes it easier to hem through thick fabric layers that a machine might struggle with.
- It also lets you adjust easily as you go, ensuring a perfect fit and look.
- Additionally, it can be a more satisfying process for those who sew as a hobby.
How To Temporarily Hem Children’s Karate Pants
When it comes to children’s karate pants, a temporary hem can be a great solution to accommodate their rapid growth.
As kids grow quickly, investing time in a permanent hem may not be practical. Here are some easy methods to temporarily shorten the length of your child’s gi pants:
Safety Pins
One of the simplest ways to temporarily hem karate pants is by using safety pins:
- Have your child try on the pants and stand in their natural stance.
- Fold the excess fabric up to the desired length and pin it in place with medium-sized safety pins. Make sure the pins are evenly spaced around the leg.
- Repeat on the other leg, ensuring the hem is even on both sides.
- To prevent the pins from opening during training, you can criss-cross two pins at each point for added security.
Fabric Tape
Another option for a temporary hem is to use fabric tape, also known as hem tape or wonder tape:
- Measure and mark the desired hem length on the inside of the pant leg.
- Cut a strip of fabric tape to fit around the circumference of the leg opening.
- Following the package instructions, iron the tape onto the inside of the hem crease. The heat will activate the adhesive.
- Fold the hem up along the tape line and press with the iron to secure the bond.
- Repeat on the other leg, making sure the hem lengths match.
Fabric tape creates a strong but temporary hold that can withstand the rigors of karate practice. When your child outgrows the pants, simply peel off the tape and resize the hem.
Snap Tape
For a slightly more durable temporary hem, consider using snap tape:
- Sew a strip of female snap tape to the inside of the pant leg at the desired hem length.
- Sew the corresponding male snap tape to the inside of the pant leg at the original hem.
- Snap the two tape pieces together to create a folded hem at the correct length.
- Unsnap and readjust the hem placement as needed as your child grows.
Snap tape allows for easy adjustments without the need for sewing or pinning. It provides a secure hold that still allows for flexibility and movement during karate training.
Remember, while temporary hems are convenient for growing kids, they may not look as crisp or professional as a sewn hem. As your child advances in rank and attends more formal events, you may want to invest in properly hemmed pants for a neat, polished appearance.
But for everyday training and practice, these temporary solutions can save time and money while keeping your little martial artist comfortable on the mat.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to hem karate pants is a simple but essential skill for any dedicated martial artist. By following these step-by-step instructions and taking the time to prepare, measure, pin, iron, and sew your pants with care and attention to detail, you’ll be able to create a custom-fitted gi that looks and feels great on the mat.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned sensei, mastering the art of hemming will help you present yourself with confidence and professionalism in the dojo and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can You Hem Gi Pants?
Yes, you can absolutely hem gi pants. The process involves measuring the desired length, marking it, and then sewing the hem using a sewing machine or hand stitching.
What is the Best Stitch to Hem Gi Pants?
Though one might not see it at first, the best stitch to hem gi pants is arguably the flat-felled seam, similar to the one found on jean hems. This technique involves sewing two parallel rows of stitches for added durability.
Are Gi Pants Supposed to be Short?
The decision is based on individual tastes. If you find the longer karate pants comfortable and to your liking, there’s no need to trim them. However, if they impede your karate practice, modifying them and opting for a shorter length is advisable, as the excessive material could potentially lead to accidents and injuries.
