How to Lengthen Dress Pants

Written By: CASSANDRA ROBBINS

Comments: 0

Difficulty

Moderate

Steps

Time Required

No estimate

Introduction

This fix can be done without a sewing machine and instead be hand-sewn, however a sewing machine is recommended. The estimated time for this project is half an hour to 45 minutes. Allow extra time for seam ripping.

Tools

Step 1

Start by carefully ripping the seam of the pants with a seam ripper. Make sure not to leave holes in the fabric or it will show in the finished product.

Step 2

Next, iron the crease left previously by the seam.
Some fabrics cannot take high heat. Consult the tag of the garment for ironing instructions. Consider placing layers of fabric between the iron and garment to reduce heat.

Step 3

Try on the pants. Have a partner pin the pants to the desired length.
If you do not have someone to help, measure the inseam of the pants and pin to the desired length.

Step 4

Measure the width of the pant leg, double that measurement, and add 1.5 inches for seam allowance. Cut the bias tape to match this width.

Step 5

Sew the bottom of the pant to the edge of the bias tape.
Make sure to remove pins while sewing as you move the work closer to the needle to avoid damaging the machine.

Step 6

Fold the bias tape underneath (about 3/4" -1") and iron flat. Make sure that the bias tape is not visible. Pin the two layers together.

Step 7

Sew the new seam of the pants.
If sewing with a machine, consult the machine's manual on how to do a blind stitch. If sewing by hand, use a tacking stitch. Make sure to only sew the two layers of fabric and not the entire pant-- this will cause the leg of your pants to not have an opening.