Are you tired of buying jeans that are too loose or too tight? Do you wish you could make your jeans fit perfectly without spending a fortune on alterations? If so, then tapering is the answer for you. Tapering is a simple sewing technique that can transform the fit of your jeans, making them look and feel like they were made just for you.
Tapering involves taking in the sides of your jeans from the knee down. This creates a more fitted look, which can be especially flattering on bootcut or wide-leg jeans. The amount of tapering you do will depend on your personal preference, but most people find that a 1-2 inch taper is enough to achieve a noticeable difference.
Tapering is a relatively easy sewing project that can be completed in an afternoon. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind before you get started. First, make sure that your jeans are the right length before you start tapering. If your jeans are too long, you will need to hem them before you can taper them. Second, choose a thread color that matches the color of your jeans. This will help to make the tapered seams less noticeable.
Materials You’ll Need
Tapering jeans doesn’t require a lot of specialized equipment, but it’s important to gather the right tools to ensure a clean and professional finish. Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need:
Fabric Scissors
Sharp fabric scissors are crucial for making precise cuts in your jeans. Opt for a pair designed specifically for cutting fabric, as they will provide a clean and even cut. Avoid using scissors that are dull or have been used for other purposes, as they can fray or tear the fabric.
Consider the weight and type of fabric your jeans are made of when selecting scissors. For heavier fabrics like denim, you’ll need stronger scissors with a thicker blade. For lighter fabrics, a smaller pair of fabric scissors with a thinner blade should suffice.
Here are some additional tips for using fabric scissors:
- Hold the scissors perpendicular to the fabric for a straight cut.
- Use long, smooth strokes to avoid snagging or fraying the fabric.
li>Keep your scissors clean and free of lint to maintain their sharpness.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Fabric scissors | Sharp scissors specifically designed for cutting fabric |
| Measuring tape or ruler | For determining the desired taper and marking the fabric |
| Tailor’s chalk or marking pen | For marking the fabric where you want to taper |
| Sewing machine (optional) | For sewing the new seams after tapering (if desired) |
Preparation: Washing and Measuring
To prepare your jeans for tapering, follow these steps:
Washing
Wash your jeans in cold water on a gentle cycle. This will help to relax the fabric and make it easier to work with. Do not add bleach or fabric softener, as these chemicals can damage the fabric and make it difficult to sew.
Measuring
Once your jeans are washed and dried, it’s time to measure them and determine how much you want to taper them. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Put on your jeans and mark the desired taper point
Put on your jeans and stand in front of a mirror. Pinch the excess fabric at the leg opening and mark the point where you want the jeans to taper to. Use a chalk pencil or fabric marker to make the mark. Repeat for the other leg.
2. Measure the leg opening
Measure the leg opening of your jeans at the hem. This will give you the starting width of the taper.
3. Measure the desired taper width
Measure the desired taper width at the marked point. This will be the ending width of the taper.
4. Calculate the amount of fabric to remove
Subtract the starting width from the ending width to determine the amount of fabric you need to remove from each side of the leg. Divide this number by 2 to get the amount of fabric to remove from each side.
| Measurement | Value |
|—|—|
| Leg opening width | [Value] |
| Desired taper width | [Value] |
| Amount of fabric to remove from each side | [Value] |
Mark the Hemline
Once you’ve decided on the new width of your jeans at the hem, it’s time to mark the hemline. To do this, you’ll need a measuring tape, a fabric marker, and a ruler or straightedge.
Step 1: Measure and Mark the New Hem Width
Put on the jeans that you want to taper and mark the desired new width at the hem with a fabric marker. Make sure to measure from the inseam to the outside edge of the leg, and mark the hemline all the way around the leg.
Step 2: Connect the Marks
Once you’ve marked the new hem width all the way around the leg, use a ruler or straightedge to connect the marks. This will create a straight line that will serve as your new hemline.
Step 3: Check the Fit and Adjust as Needed
Once you’ve marked the new hemline, try on the jeans again to check the fit. If the hem is too tight, you can widen it by marking a new hemline that is slightly wider. If the hem is too loose, you can narrow it by marking a new hemline that is slightly narrower. Repeat this step until you’re satisfied with the fit.
Pin and Measure the Fold
Once you have marked where the seams are on the outer and inner legs, it’s time to pin and measure the fold. Here’s how:
- Lay the jeans flat on a surface, with the outer leg facing up.
- Fold the inner leg over the outer leg, aligning the seams. Ensure the edges are lined up evenly.
- Starting at the hem, use pins to secure the fold along the length of the leg. Pin perpendicular to the edge to prevent puckering.
- Measure the desired width of the taper from the outer edge of the folded leg to the original hemline. The amount you measure will determine the amount of tapering.
- Mark the measurement along the fold using a fabric marker or chalk. This will serve as the new hemline.
- Remove the pins and flatten the jeans. Check if the fold is even and the measurements are correct before proceeding to the next step.
| Measurement Tips |
|---|
|
– Measure the width at the widest point of the calf for a regular taper. – Measure at the ankle for a tapered leg opening – If you’re unsure, start with a smaller taper and adjust as needed. |
Sew the Side Seam
With the wrong sides together and raw edges lined up, pin the side seam of the leg, from the hem up to the new narrowing point.
Edgestitch the side seam with the sewing machine, using a narrow stitch setting. Trim any excess thread.
Repeat for the other leg.
Creating the Tapered Hem
Fold up the hem of the leg, aligning the raw edge with the desired length. Press the hem to create a crease.
Fold the hem up again, aligning the folded edge with the crease. Press the hem again to make a sharp crease.
Stitch the hem in place with the sewing machine, using a narrow zigzag stitch or blind hem stitch for a cleaner finish.
Repeat for the other leg.
Finishing Touches
Turn the jeans right side out and try them on. Check the fit and make any necessary adjustments.
If desired, topstitch the side seams and hem for a more professional finish.
Additional Tips
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a fabric marker or chalk to mark the narrowing point and hemline before sewing. | This will help ensure accuracy and prevent mistakes. |
| Stitch the side seams slowly and carefully to avoid puckering. | Use a short stitch length and backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam. |
| Press the seams thoroughly after sewing. | This will help set the stitches and create a more polished look. |
Sew the Inseam
With the jeans inside out, align the new inseam edges, pin them together, and sew them together using a straight stitch. Begin sewing from the hem and work your way up the inseam. Use a small stitch length, about 10 stitches per inch, to ensure a secure seam.
To further enhance the durability of the seam, you can topstitch it. This involves sewing a second line of stitching parallel to the first one, about 1/8 inch away. Topstitching not only adds strength but also creates a professional-looking finish.
Reinforce the Hem
Once the inseam is sewn, turn the jeans right side out and press the new hem. Topstitch the hem to reinforce it and give it a polished look. Use a narrow zigzag stitch or a straight stitch with a short stitch length to ensure a secure hold.
Hemming Options
There are several ways to hem jeans, depending on the desired look and the fabric’s thickness. Here are some common options:
| Hem Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Plain hem | A simple fold-over hem, typically with a straight or zigzag stitch. |
| Double hem | A more durable hem, where the fabric is folded over twice and stitched. |
| Blind hem | A nearly invisible hem that is sewn on the inside of the garment. |
| Rolled hem | A decorative hem that involves rolling the fabric under and stitching it. |
Trim the Excess Fabric
Once you’ve pinned the seam, it’s time to trim the excess fabric. Here’s a detailed guide to help you do it accurately:
1. Measure the Margin
Decide how much fabric you want to trim off. Typically, you’ll want to remove 1-2 inches for a subtle taper or up to 3 inches for a more drastic one.
2. Mark the Line
Use a fabric marker or chalk to draw a line along the pinned seam, parallel to the selvedge. This line will indicate where you need to cut.
3. Trim the Excess
Use sharp fabric scissors to carefully trim the fabric along the marked line. Be precise and avoid cutting into the pinned seam or the selvedge.
4. Check for Symmetry
Once you’ve trimmed one leg, hold it up to the other leg and compare the lengths. Make sure they are even before trimming the second leg.
5. Measure and Trim the Second Leg
Pin and trim the second leg in the same way, ensuring that the amount of fabric removed is equal on both sides.
6. Remove the Pins
Once both legs have been trimmed, carefully remove the pins from the seams.
7. Iron and Press
To enhance the finished look, iron the seams flat. Use the steam setting on your iron to press the fabric around the trimmed edges, creating a crisp and polished appearance. The following table summarizes the steps for trimming the excess fabric:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. | Measure the margin |
| 2. | Mark the line |
| 3. | Trim the excess |
| 4. | Check for symmetry |
| 5. | Measure and trim the second leg |
| 6. | Remove the pins |
| 7. | Iron and press |
Overcast the Hem
Once you’ve sewn the side seam, it’s time to overcast the raw edge of the hem to prevent it from fraying. You can use a sewing machine or do it by hand.
To overcast the hem by machine:
- Fold the hem up by 1/2 inch and press.
- Fold the hem up again by 1/2 inch and press.
- Stitch the hem in place using a zigzag stitch or a blind hem stitch.
To overcast the hem by hand:
- Fold the hem up by 1/2 inch and press.
- Fold the hem up again by 1/2 inch and press.
- Use a needle and thread to sew the hem in place using a whip stitch or a slip stitch.
Hem Stitch
A hem stitch is a type of stitch that is used to secure the folded edge of a piece of fabric. Hem stitches can be sewn by hand or by machine. There are many different types of hem stitches, but the most common type is the blind hem stitch.
To sew a blind hem stitch by hand, you will need a needle and thread. The thickness of the thread should be appropriate for the weight of the fabric you are sewing. To do a blind hem stitch, you will need to follow these steps:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fold the fabric in half along the hemline, wrong sides together. |
| 2 | Press the fold. |
| 3 | Fold the fabric up again along the hemline, right sides together. |
| 4 | Press the fold. |
| 5 | Use a needle and thread to sew the hem in place using a blind hem stitch. |
Iron and Admire Your Tapered Jeans
Once you’ve finished tapering your jeans, it’s important to iron them to set the new crease. This will help the jeans keep their shape and look their best.
To iron your tapered jeans, follow these steps:
- Set your iron to a medium-high heat setting.
- Place the jeans on an ironing board and smooth them out.
- Starting at the top of the jeans, iron down the leg in long, even strokes.
- Be sure to iron the creases you created when you tapered the jeans.
- Once you’ve ironed the entire leg, repeat the process on the other leg.
- Allow the jeans to cool completely before wearing them.
Now that your jeans are tapered and ironed, you can enjoy the new look!
Advanced Techniques for Different Fabrics
Stretch Denims
Stretch denims require special care when tapering. Cut the fabric carefully to avoid puckering. Use a needle specifically designed for stretch fabrics and a slightly longer stitch length to prevent the seams from splitting.
Raw Denim
Raw denim can be challenging to taper due to its stiff texture. Soak the jeans in warm water before cutting to soften the fabric. Use a sharp pair of shears and be patient when making the cuts.
Selvedge Denim
Selvedge denim has a distinctive finished edge. To maintain the integrity of the selvage edge when tapering, cut along the seam allowance and topstitch the new seam with a narrow allowance.
Heavyweight Fabrics
Heavyweight fabrics like canvas need extra care when tapering. Use a heavy-duty sewing machine and extra-strong thread. Consider using a double-needle stitch for added reinforcement.
Knits
Knits are stretchy and delicate. Cut the fabric carefully and use a machine with a stretch stitch or a serger. Fold the edges of the seams over once to prevent them from fraying.
Faux Leather
Faux leather can be tapered using similar techniques as for real leather. Use a sharp knife to cut the fabric and a special leather needle for sewing. Test the stitches on a scrap piece of fabric first.
Corduroy
Corduroy has a distinctive ridged texture. Be mindful of the direction of the ridges when cutting the fabric. Use a sharp knife and cut along the ridges to avoid damaging the texture.
Wool
Wool is a delicate fabric that requires careful handling. Use a sharp pair of scissors and cut the fabric carefully. Use a fine needle and thread specifically designed for wool.
Silk
Silk is the most delicate fabric to taper. Cut the fabric carefully with a sharp knife or razor blade. Use a fine needle and thread specifically designed for silk.
Patterned Fabrics
Tapering patterned fabrics requires precision to maintain the pattern. Use a fabric marker to mark the desired seam lines and cut carefully along the marks. Match the patterns carefully when sewing the seams.
| Fabric | Tips for Tapering |
|---|---|
| Stretch Denim | Use needle designed for stretch fabrics, longer stitch length |
| Raw Denim | Soak before cutting, use sharp shears |
| Selvedge Denim | Cut along seam allowance, narrow topstitch |
| Heavyweight Fabrics | Heavy-duty sewing machine, extra-strong thread, double-needle stitch |
| Knits | Stretch stitch or serger, fold edges |
How to Taper Jeans
Tapering jeans is a great way to give them a more custom fit. It’s not as difficult as it looks, and with a little practice, you can taper your jeans yourself at home. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
- Put on your jeans and mark the desired width of the leg opening with a piece of chalk or fabric pencil.
- Take off your jeans and lay them flat on a table. Fold the leg in half lengthwise, aligning the inseams.
- Starting at the bottom of the leg, measure up the desired length of the taper. Mark this point with chalk or fabric pencil.
- Connect the bottom point to the desired width point with a straight line. This will be your taper line.
- Sew along the taper line, using a sewing machine or hand-sewing needle and thread.
- Try on your jeans to make sure the fit is to your liking. If necessary, adjust the taper line and sew again.
People Also Ask About How to Taper Jeans
How much should I taper my jeans?
The amount you taper your jeans depends on your personal preference. However, a good rule of thumb is to taper them by no more than 2 inches on each side.
What kind of thread should I use to taper my jeans?
You can use any type of thread to taper your jeans, but a heavier thread will create a stronger seam. A good option is to use a denim thread, which is designed specifically for sewing denim fabric.
Can I taper my jeans without a sewing machine?
Yes, you can taper your jeans without a sewing machine. However, it will take longer and the seam will not be as strong. To hand-sew your jeans, use a needle and thread and follow the steps outlined above.
