Elevate Your Style: 3 Ways to Add Split Hems to Pants

Elevate Your Style: 3 Ways to Add Split Hems to Pants

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction: Slits on Pants - A Fashion Trend
2. Method 1: The Proper Way to Create Side Seam Slits 2.1. Preparing the Pattern and Fabric 2.2. Sewing the Side Seam with Sewing Machine 2.3. Hemming the Slit with Twin Needle 2.4. Pros and Cons of Method 1
3. Method 2: Adding Slits to Existing Pants 3.1. Adjusting the Side Seam Width 3.2. Creating Slits without Seam 3.3. Hemming the Slit Area 3.4. Pros and Cons of Method 2
4. Method 3: Adding a Center Leg Sleeve with Facing 4.1. Removing Cuff Detail 4.2. Creating a Facing 4.3. Attaching the Facing to the Pant Leg 4.4. Hemming the Sleeve 4.5. Pros and Cons of Method 3
5. Conclusion: Explore Different Ways to Style Pants with Slits

Introduction: Slits on Pants - A Fashion Trend

Slits on pants or split hems have become a popular fashion trend in recent years. While some may argue that it's just another fleeting trend, slits on pants have actually been around for ages. In this article, we will explore different methods of adding slits to pants, including the proper way to create side seam slits, adding slits to existing pants, and adding a center leg sleeve with facing. Each method has its own unique techniques and pros and cons. So, let's dive in and discover how you can give your pants a little extra flair.

Method 1: The Proper Way to Create Side Seam Slits

Slits on the side seam of pants can give them a clean and polished look. This method involves sewing the side seam with the sewing machine and hemming the slit area with a twin needle for added stretchability. Here's a step-by-step guide:

2.1. Preparing the Pattern and Fabric To create side seam slits, start by preparing your pattern and fabric. Choose a pant pattern that has a straight or slightly tapered leg. Cut out the fabric pieces, ensuring you have enough seam allowance for the slit.

2.2. Sewing the Side Seam with Sewing Machine Sew the front and back pieces separately, pressing the seams open. Then, sew the side seam using a sewing machine. It is important to press the seam open for a clean finish. If it's a knit fabric, consider using a narrow zigzag stitch. For woven fabric, a straight stitch will suffice.

2.3. Hemming the Slit with Twin Needle To create the slit, measure and mark the desired length on the pant leg. Cut a rectangle shape that allows for the hem allowance and slit. Sew the sides of the slit separately, leaving the bottom open. Hem the slit area using a twin needle for a neat finish.

2.4. Pros and Cons of Method 1

Pros:

• Gives a clean and polished look to the pants
• Provides added stretchability with the use of a twin needle
• Suitable for both knit and woven fabrics

Cons:

• Requires precision in sewing the side seam and hemming the slit area
• Twin needle hemming may be challenging for beginners

Method 2: Adding Slits to Existing Pants

If you have a pair of pants that you want to modify by adding slits, this method is for you. It allows you to adjust the side seam width and create slits without changing the overall construction of the pants. Here's how you can do it:

3.1. Adjusting the Side Seam Width Pinch the side seam of the pants to determine how much narrower you want them to be. Mark the new seam line and unpick the original seam partially, keeping the seam allowance intact.

3.2. Creating Slits without Seam Measure and mark the desired length of the slit on the pant leg. Cut a gradual curve from the bottom of the slit to the original hemline. Serge the edges separately to prevent fraying.

3.3. Hemming the Slit Area Fold the pant leg with the seam allowance, aligning the hemline accordingly. Press the seam allowance towards the back leg. Hem the slit area using a machine or hand stitch.

3.4. Pros and Cons of Method 2

Pros:

• Allows modification of existing pants without major alterations
• Provides a controlled adjustment to the side seam width
• Offers customization options for different slit lengths and shapes

Cons:

• Requires precise cutting and sewing to maintain the integrity of the pants
• May result in a bulkier seam allowance in the slit area

Method 3: Adding a Center Leg Sleeve with Facing

For a unique and decorative slit design, adding a center leg sleeve with facing is a great option. This method creates a sleeve-like detail in the center of the pant leg. Here's how you can do it:

4.1. Removing Cuff Detail If your pants have a cuff, remove it to create a longer hemline. This will provide space for the center leg sleeve and facing.

4.2. Creating a Facing Cut a rectangle-shaped facing from a matching fabric. Interface the wrong side of the facing to stabilize the slit area. Mark a center line on the facing for reference.

4.3. Attaching the Facing to the Pant Leg Align the center line of the facing with the center of the pant leg. Hand baste the facing in place. Sew along the edges of the facing, leaving the slit area open.

4.4. Hemming the Sleeve Fold the hem allowance and facing inward, and hand or machine stitch the hem. Ensure that the longer end of the pant leg is tucked inside the facing to maintain a clean finish.

4.5. Pros and Cons of Method 3

Pros:

• Adds a unique and decorative detail to the pants
• Allows for customization of the slit length and positioning
• Can be done on existing pants, no need for major alterations

Cons:

• Requires precise cutting and sewing to create the facing and attach it to the pant leg
• May result in a delicate seam allowance inside the slit area

Conclusion: Explore Different Ways to Style Pants with Slits

Adding slits to pants can be a great way to enhance their style and give them a unique touch. Whether you choose the proper way of creating side seam slits, adding slits to existing pants, or adding a center leg sleeve with facing, each method offers its own benefits and considerations. So, go ahead and experiment with these techniques to elevate your pants' fashion game. Get creative and have fun exploring the possibilities of adding slits to your favorite pair of pants!

Highlights:

• Explore different methods to add slits to pants: proper way for side seam slits, adding slits to existing pants, and adding a center leg sleeve with facing.
• Adjust the side seam width before creating slits to achieve the desired fit.
• Hem the slit area using a twin needle for added stretchability.
• Consider the pros and cons of each method in terms of construction, difficulty level, and result.
• Use matching fabric and facing to create a decorative center leg sleeve with a clean finish.
• Have fun experimenting with different slit lengths, shapes, and positioning to customize your pants' style.

FAQ:

Q: Can I add slits to already sewn pants? A: Yes, you can add slits to already sewn pants by adjusting the side seam width and creating slits without changing the overall construction.

Q: How do I hem the slit area? A: Hem the slit area by folding the pant leg with the seam allowance, pressing it, and using a sewing machine or hand stitching to secure the hem.

Q: Can I add a sleeve-like detail to the center of the pant leg? A: Yes, you can add a center leg sleeve with facing to create a unique and decorative slit design on the pant leg. Ensure that the longer end is tucked inside the facing for a clean finish.

Resources:

• Green Style Creations (https://greenstylecreations.com): Offers flared leggings and other activewear patterns for sewing projects. They often have sales, including Black Friday discounts.

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