Hemming is often the last stage in garment construction and is vital in keeping the fabric from unraveling and adjusting different garment lengths when needed. The best sewing machine for hemming jeans today are chock full of features that will ensure you finish your project perfectly.
Hemming your garment can be done in numerous various styles. The depth of the hem, the garment fold, and the stitch types used are all ways of distinguishing different hems.
Regardless, with a fair and steady sewing machine, you can achieve all this well. We delve into ten machines perfect for hemming curtains and jeans and provide a comprehensive analysis of them.
Table of Contents
What Is Hemming?
Hemming is a sewing technique that involves folding and stitching the edge of a fabric to create a neat and durable finish. Hemming can prevent the fabric from fraying, curling, or stretching, and it can also improve the appearance and fit of the garment.
Hemming can be done by hand or by machine, depending on the type and thickness of the fabric and the style and quality of the hem.
Hemming has a long and rich history that dates back to ancient times. Hemming was originally used to protect and decorate clothing, such as tunics, robes, and skirts.
Hemming was also used to create symbolic or religious meanings, such as status, identity, or ritual. Hemming evolved over time with different styles, techniques, and materials influenced by various cultures, regions, and periods.
Hemming is a diverse and dynamic technique that can be classified into different types, such as:
- Straight Hem: A straight hem is a type of hem that is folded and stitched along a straight line parallel to the edge of the fabric. A straight hem is simple and easy to make, and it can be used for most fabrics and garments.
- Curved Hem: A curved hem is a type of hem that is folded and stitched along a curved line that follows the shape of the fabric. A curved hem is more complex and difficult to make, and it can be used for fabrics and garments that have rounded edges, such as shirts, dresses, or skirts.
- Blind Hem: A blind hem is a type of hem that is folded and stitched in a way that makes the stitches invisible or barely visible on the right side of the fabric. A blind hem is more elegant and discreet than a visible hem, and it can be used for fabrics and garments that require a clean and professional look, such as pants, jackets, or curtains.
- Rolled Hem: A rolled hem is a type of hem that is folded and stitched in a way that creates a narrow and rolled edge on the fabric. A rolled hem is more delicate and decorative than a regular hem, and it can be used for fabrics and garments that are lightweight or sheer, such as scarves, napkins, or lingerie.
How to Hem Jeans
Jeans are pants that are made from denim fabric, which is a type of cotton fabric that is woven with indigo-dyed yarns. Jeans are popular and versatile, as they can be worn for various occasions, styles, and seasons.
However, sometimes you may want to hem your jeans, which means to shorten and finish the bottom edge of your jeans. This may be due to various reasons, such as:
- Your jeans are too long for your height or your shoes.
- Your jeans are worn out or frayed at the bottom.
- You want to change the style or fit of your jeans.
Whatever the reason, hemming your jeans can be a simple and fun project that can help you customize and update your jeans. Hemming your jeans can be done by hand or by machine, depending on your skill level, preference, and equipment. Hemming your jeans can also be done using different methods, such as:
These are some of the basic methods that you can use to hem your jeans. Of course, there are many other methods that you can use for more advanced or creative hemming projects, such as frayed hem, lace hem, zipper hem, and more.
To hem your jeans, you will need some basic tools and materials, such as:
Requirements
- A pair of jeans that you want to hem.
- A measuring tape or a ruler.
- A pair of scissors or a rotary cutter.
- A seam ripper or a seam cutter.
- A sewing machine or a needle and thread.
- Some pins or clips.
- An iron or a steamer.
Steps
The steps for hemming your jeans are as follows:
- Try on your jeans and mark the desired length. You can use a measuring tape or a ruler to measure the length from the waistband to the bottom edge of your jeans. You can also use another pair of jeans that fit you well as a reference. You can use pins, clips, chalk, or a washable marker to mark the desired length on both legs of your jeans. Make sure the marks are even and symmetrical.
- Cut off the excess length of your jeans. You can use a pair of scissors or a rotary cutter to cut off the excess length of your jeans. You can also use a seam ripper or a seam cutter to undo the original hem of your jeans if you want to preserve it. Leave about an inch of extra fabric for folding and stitching.
- Fold and press the bottom edge of your jeans. You can use an iron or a steamer to fold and press the bottom edge of your jeans according to the method you choose. For example, if you chose the original hem method, you can fold up the original hem over the cut edge and press it flat. If you choose the cuffed hem method, you can fold up the cut edge once or twice to your desired width and press it flat.
- Stitch the hem in place. You can use a sewing machine or a needle and thread to stitch the hem in place according to the method you choose. For example, if you chose the original hem method, you can stitch along the original hemline using a matching thread color and a straight stitch. If you chose the blind hem method, you can stitch along the fold using a contrasting thread color and a blind hem stitch.
- Trim any excess fabric or threads. You can use a pair of scissors or a rotary cutter to trim any excess fabric or threads from the inside of your jeans. You can also use a seam ripper or a seam cutter to remove any unwanted stitches or seams from your jeans.
- Try on your jeans and admire your work. You can try on your jeans and see how they fit and look. You can also make any adjustments or corrections if needed. You can also wash and dry your jeans to set the hem and remove any marks or creases.
Best Sewing Machine For Hemming Jeans
- Brother CS7000i Sewing and Quilting Machine
An improvement from its predecessor- the Brother CS6000i- the CS7000i has more features with some specific improvements. The most noticeable difference is the increase in the number of integrated stitches to 70.
This variety will allow you to work on different projects. Among these stitches are seven styles of one-step automatic buttonholes. This machine is dual-purpose and will serve the sewer interested in quilting perfectly, which offers excellent value.
Previewing the stitches and viewing helpful information is done through a large backlit LCD screen, which is clear and intuitive to use. You can use this same feature to adjust the stitch length and select your preferred stitch.
With a decent top speed of 850 stitches per minute, you can sew quickly and slow down with the speed controller whenever you need to work precisely. The workspace is also relatively large, and you can comfortably work on your larger projects.
Summary of Top Features
- 70 built-in stitches
- Seven buttonhole styles
- Ten presser feet included
- Dual-purpose (sewing and quilting)
- Top speeds of up to 850 stitches per minute
Pros
- One-step buttonholes
- Automatic needle threader
- Adjustable speed
- Reverse sewing
- Durable and sturdy
Cons
- Inconsistent needle threader
- SINGER | Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Portable Sewing Machine
The Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 is a computerized sewing machine with a heavy-duty interior frame and excellent performance. A popular feature of this machine is the abundance of certain features and accessories.
It has 600 integrated stitches, which are easily selected from the reference chart. The stitch selection in this machine includes 13 one-step fully automated buttonhole stitches, decorative and essential stitches, and character and alphanumeric fonts. The accessory package is also quite generous and comes with several feet.
The bobbin is loaded by dropping in from the top and has a clear cover so you can monitor your thread supply and rethread as quickly as needed.
Though the sewing speed is not among the fastest, at 850 spm, you will promptly get through your products, and you can use the speed slider to slow down when you want more precision. One obvious downside to this machine is that you cannot import your stitch designs, although it is computerized.
Summary of Top Features
- 13 buttonhole styles
- 600 built-in stitches
- A maximum sewing speed of 850 stitches per minute
- Drop-in top bobbin loading
- Adjustable speed
Pros
- Numerous stitches
- Stitch editing function
- Automatic thread cutter
- Quick and easy bobbin loading
- Generous accessory package
Cons
- Presser foot’s pressure is not adjustable
The Brother company has attracted quite a large and loyal customer group for their sewing machine line due to the machine’s excellent performance. The XM3701 is a testament to this.
This machine is lightweight and compact, and you should face no great challenge in moving. It is also sturdy enough to stay steady when sewing. There are 27 built-in stitches on this machine. A chart has been engraved above the stitch selector knob of this machine to quickly choose the one you want.
The reverse stitching function on this device is also convenient for finishing and reinforcing a seam. Bobbin loading is done by dropping in from the top into space with a transparent cover so you can monitor your thread supply.
If you are a novice, you will particularly appreciate the bobbin-winding feature, which winds your thread neatly and evenly. Among other features that make using this machine great include the one-step buttonhole, 6 included presser feet, and its quiet working.
Summary of Top Features
- Jam-proof drop-in top bobbin loading
- Six included presser feet
- 27 integrated stitches
- Dial stitch selection
- Sewing rate of 800 stitches per minute
Pros
- One-step automatic buttonhole
- Well-lit working area
- Easy to use
- Good value for money
- Lightweight and easily portable
Cons
- Lacks features for speed control
This feature-rich machine is excellent for anyone looking for a machine that’s easy to use while retaining its high functionality. Selecting one of the 60 stitches offered is extremely easy as a stitch selection guide is mounted on the machine’s front panel.
The sewn stitches are neat, consistent, and of high quality, not to mention their varied nature. Bobbin loading for this machine is also done by dropping from the top, and the transparent cover makes for easy thread supply monitoring and quick rethreading.
If you want to work on larger projects, there is an extension table to increase your working area. Trimming the upper and lower threads is also done automatically by using a button, and the 820 spm speed of this machine can be regulated using the foot pedal or the speed slider.
Apart from the dim lighting, the Janome 3160QDC has all the right features that will make your sewing process more efficient.
Summary of Top Features
- Drop-in top bobbin loading
- LCD screen
- 60 integrated stitches
- Top speeds of up to 820 stitches per minute
- Automatic needle threader and thread cutter
Pros
- Intuitive and easy to use controls
- Automatic needle threading
- Easy to set up and use
- Easily portable
- High-quality performance
Cons
- The lighting is dim
- Does not work very well with thicker fabrics
The Singer Simple 3232 is the sewing machine for the sewer looking for a relatively simple machine. This mechanical machine may lack in the many features prevalent today, but what it does, it does well.
It comes with 32 integrated stitches, which are easily selected by turning the dial. These stitches include decorative, stretch, essential, and buttonhole stitches.
An automatic needle threader on Singer 3232 helps you avoid eye strain and frustration. An automatic reverse stitching function will also be invaluable in reinforcing seams.
Setting up and using this device is done in minutes, and the controls and features are intuitive to use. One feature that may prove inefficient is the front-loading bobbin, which many users have complained is prone to jamming at times. This machine also doesn’t work very quietly.
Summary of Top Features
- Speeds of 750 stitches per minute
- 32 built-in stitches
- Front-loading bobbin
- A heavy-duty metal interior frame
- Automatic needle threading
Pros
- Automatic needle threading
- One-step buttonhole
- Lightweight and compact
- Easy stitch selection
- Automatic reverse stitching feature
Cons
- The bobbin is not jam-proof.
The Janome HD 3000 is the go-to machine if you want a heavy-duty mechanical sewing machine, and its reputation in this field is well earned.
It works excellently with thicker and heavier fabrics, and its features are attuned to it. The presser feet’ pressure on this machine can easily be adjusted depending on the cloth you are sewing.
This adjustable pressure will help in producing high-quality stitches and matching the upper and lower fabrics. Another feature of this machine is the 7-piece feed dog. This feeding mechanism makes feeding the fabric a smooth process.
There are 18 in-built stitches in this machine of different types. A reference chart on the front of this machine makes selecting one quite convenient. The maximum stitch length and width of 4mm and 6.5mm are also adjustable for precise stitch designs.
Summary of Top Features
- Speeds of 860 stitches per minute
- 18 integrated stitches
- Heavy-duty metal interior frame.
- Reverse stitching lever
- Top loading bobbin
Pros
- Adjustable pressure of the presser foot
- Drop-in top bobbin loading
- One-step buttonhole
- Durable and sturdy
- Easy to set up and use
- 7-piece feed dog
Cons
- It works a bit noisily on light fabrics.
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SINGER 4423 Sewing Machine
The singer brand has a glowing reputation when it comes to the sewing machines they produce. The 4423 is a practical and efficient sewing machine used by sewers of all skill levels.
The 23 built-in stitches in this machine include 12 decorative, four stretch, and six essential, sufficient to work on most projects. There is also a one-step fully automatic buttonhole, which creates perfectly sized buttonholes in one quick step.
With a maximum speed of 1,100 stitches per minute, completing multiple projects should not prove to be a challenge. It is important to note that some buyers have found it challenging to control the speed. A free arm can also be used when sewing in tiny areas such as sleeves, cuffs, and collars.
Summary of Top Features
- 23 integrated stitches
- Three needle positions
- Sewing rate of 1,100 stitches per minute
- Heavy-duty metal frame
- LED-lit working area
Pros
- Quick sewing speeds
- Stable and durable
- Fully automated one-step buttonhole
- Steel bedplate for smooth fabric feeding
- Powerful motor
- Adjustable stitch length
Cons
- The speed is not easy to control
- Janome HD1000 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine
The Janome HD 1000 is another popular heavy-duty sewing machine. It has a heavy-duty aluminum interior frame that makes it sturdy and durable. Setting up and using it is an easy and intuitive process, and it has features that make your sewing more efficient.
The HD 1000 has 14 built-in stitches, which are varied and easy to select and use. These stitches include zigzag, knit, stretch, buttonhole, decorative, and straight stitches.
The built-in needle threader will take the frustration and strain out of the threading process, while the built-in thread cutter will trim the upper and lower threads automatically for more efficiency.
When you are reinforcing your seams, the reverse lever in this machine will be an invaluable tool. Other great features in this machine include the 3-piece feed dog for smooth fabric feeding, and the extra-high presser foot lifter will allow you to work on multiple layer fabrics.
Summary of Top Features
- 14 built-in stitches
- Four presser feet included
- 25-year limited warranty
- Front-loading bobbin
- Manual thread tension control
- 3-piece feed dogs
Pros
- Easy to set up and use
- Simple to maintain
- Heavy-duty, durable build
- Built-in needle threading function
- Reverse stitching function
Cons
- The 4-step buttonhole is not convenient.
- Janome Pink Sorbet Easy-to-Use Sewing Machine
While this machine’s pink color may make you think it is a flimsy and unpractical machine, you could not be more wrong. The Janome Pink Sorbet is one of Janome’s more fun, colorful offerings.
It is an excellent option when looking to give a beginner or intermediate level sewer a gift. Fifteen integrated stitches come with this machine that ranges from essential and stretch stitches to decorative stitches.
While this may not seem like a broad offering, they are sufficient for anyone starting to sew. There is also a 4-step buttonhole among these stitches, which will require you to create a buttonhole in multiple steps and is not as convenient as a one-step buttonhole.
A reverse stitching function will also allow you to reinforce and finish your seams, while the free arm will allow you to work comfortably on your sleeves, collars, pant hems, and cuffs, baby clothes, and other small sewing areas.
Summary of Top Features
- 15 integrated stitches
- 3-piece feed dogs
- Reverse sewing function
- 4-step buttonhole
Pros
- Visually pleasing
- Affordable
- Lightweight and compact
- Removable free arm
- Easy to set up and use
Cons
- It has a 4-step buttonhole
- SINGER Start 1304
The Singer Start 1304 is another mechanical sewing machine that is straightforward to use and produces high-quality work. It offers six built-in stitches, which will provide a beginner with a choice that is not overwhelming.
The six stitches are blind hem, scallop, satin, zigzag, straight, and a 4-step buttonhole, making lovely buttonholes but is not as convenient as other options.
With these six stitches, this machine provides 110 stitch applications. The free arm on this machine is also invaluable when sewing small areas such as pant hems.
A threading guide is provided on the machine, which makes up for the lack of an automatic threading feature. Thread tension in this machine is also adjustable, and this will make sure that you sew high-quality work with neat and consistent stitches.
Summary of Top Features
- Six integrated stitches
- 4-step buttonhole
- Adjustable thread tension
- LED-lit working space
- 57 stitch applications
Pros
- 25-year limited warranty
- Simple to set up and use
- Automatic bobbin winding
- Well-lit working area
Cons
- Few built-in stitches
Best Sewing Machine for Hemming Jeans Buyers Guide
Hemming features in a sewing machine can easily be overlooked, despite this being a necessary process that is not overlooked. Investing in a good sewing machine is a decision that will undoubtedly lead to great results but investing in the right machine will take your work to another level. This buyer’s guide seeks to help you invest in the right sewing machine for you.
Why Should You Invest In The Best Sewing Machine For Hemming Jeans?
- Reliability
The best sewing machines for hemming curtains and jeans come with builds meant to last for a long time. You can work on them steadily to produce consistently high-quality work without fail on whatever fabric you use.
- Quality
Every sewer aims to produce work that is clearly of high-quality. With the best hemming machines, you can make stitches that are neat, consistent, and as taut as you want. Other features in this machine, such as multiple needle positions, will allow you to achieve your stitches’ precise placement for even better work.
- Automation
Machines with automated features such as needle threading, thread cutting-to snip the lower and upper bobbin threads, and bobbin winding so you can neatly wind your thread and rethread your machine quickly make work more efficient. These features make such tasks straightforward, and you don’t need to expend your energy on them.
Features to Consider When Investing In The Best Sewing Machine For Hemming Curtains And Jeans
- Durability
Before settling on a machine, think of the fabric type, you are likely to sew often. Jeans are thick material, and you will need a machine that can handle them. Hemming also involves sewing through multi-layered fabrics. Invest in a machine that has a heavy-duty interior build and whose exterior parts look strong and steady instead of trying to save some money on a flimsy machine. A sewing machine is a long-term investment, and it is critical to get one from which you will get a payoff for a long time.
It is also essential to get a machine that, while not being too heavy to move around quickly, is heavy enough to remain stable when sewing for the best results.
- Accessories
The best sewing machine for hemming curtains and jeans will need accessories that are attuned to that particular purpose to get the best results. One critical accessory you will need is the presser foot. The presser foot is the attachment that holds the fabric down as you sew. Different presser feet will add myriad other functions to your machine apart from straight sewing. Select a machine that offers at least the more common feet for hemmings, such as a blind hem and rolled-hem foot, which is used to fashion their respective hems.
- Functions
Certain functions in the best sewing machines for hemming curtains and jeans make them much more comfortable and quicker to use. Adjustable presser foot pressure, for one, will help you set the right pressure as you sew, depending on your fabric thickness. It will also help you match the bottom and top materials and affect your stitch sized and thread tension. A presser foot lifter is also an essential feature as it will help you sew through multi-layered fabrics, which is often the case in hemming.
- Sewing space
Most curtains are large and may prove a challenge to sew in a small working area. Check the size of the sewing bed in any prospective purchases. From time to time, even machines with large beds may not fully be adequate. A sewing machine with an extension table will be invaluable at such times.
- Free arm
The free arm option is another critical consideration. The free arm is incredibly useful when you are sewing hard to reach or in small areas. Tube shaped areas such as in pants are also easily sewn with a free arm. In most machines, the free arm can easily be accessed by removing the storage compartment. Check for this feature in any machine you plan to buy.
Final Thoughts
The choice to purchase a sewing machine is not one that should be undertaken lightly. You will likely use the machine you use for a long-time to come, and It would be disastrous if you purchased a machine whose features and overall performance will disappoint you after a short time.
While saving some money is essential when shopping, do not buy a low-quality machine for this reason- it is, after all, right that you get what you pay for.
A balance can be struck between your budget and the machine’s quality and performance. Shop around at different stores for a machine that is within a budget and take advantage of sales and discounts offered.
Select the best sewing machine for hemming curtains and jeans, which will give you space to work even as you improve your skills and whose features can be updated so that you don’t end up with a redundant device just a short while after the purchase.