How To Shorten A Pair Of Shorts
Shortening a pair of shorts is a great way to refresh an old garment. And it's also super easy to do! Let me show you how to shorten a pair of shorts to your desired length.
To me, having a change of heart with my handmade garments is only natural. I don't expect my figure and my style to stay the same forever, but I sure would like to extend the relationship I have with my handmade garments for as long as I can. Last year, I restyled / refashioned one of my 2011 sewing projects into something that fits my current style better. Last weekend, I decided to shorten a pair of shorts I have for a more classic, 1950's look.
Back in 2010, I wanted to make a pair of bermudas because I thought they would give a great 50's look. As it turned out, I have always felt awkward in them because of the length. I guess I'm just not a bermuda kind of gal!
So, I finally decided to shorten these bermudas and transform them into a pair of classic, retro black gingham shorts. If you are interested in learning how to shorten a pair of shorts and make a double fold hem, I'm going to show you how right now!
How To Shorten A Pair Of Shorts
Materials
pins
fabric scissors
straight ruler
fabric marker
thread
sewing machine
Instructions
Fold each leg of the shorts in half, lengthwise by aligning the side seams of the shorts with the inseams. Pin in place.
Using a straight ruler and fabric marker, measure and mark 5" from the crotch. Cut along the marked line.
Make a double-fold hem: fold 0.5" towards the wrong side of fabric, then fold another 0.5” with the folded edge facing the wrong side. Using a hot iron, press the double fold hem.
Sew approx. 1/8 " from the uppermost edge of the double-fold hem on the sewing machine.
Tips to sewing
Yes, shortening a pair of shorts is that easy! Cutting the excess length off and making a simple double fold hem work well for pants that are not tight-fitting or tapered towards the knee. Be sure to make that this is the case for the pants you want to work on, to avoid ending up with hems that are too tight on your thighs.
I hope this little tutorial has helped you get a better idea of how to shorten a pair of shorts. My "new" shorts are definitely the right length for me now. Let me know if you have any questions!
