Say Goodbye to Sloppy Hems: How to Hem a Trench Coat in Under an Hour

A classic trench coat is an investment piece that can elevate any outfit. But what happens when you find the perfect one, only to discover it’s a bit too long? Don’t despair! Hemming a trench coat is a surprisingly easy tailoring project that can give your beloved garment a custom fit. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from choosing the right tools to achieving a professional finish.

Getting Started: Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the actual hemming process, gather the necessary tools and prepare your trench coat for a successful alteration.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Measuring tape: Essential for accurate measurements.
• Sewing pins: Securely hold the hem in place.
• Fabric scissors: Sharp scissors designed for cutting fabric.
• Sewing machine: For a durable and professional finish.
• Matching thread: Choose thread that closely matches the color of your trench coat.
• Iron and ironing board: For pressing seams and creating a crisp finish.
• Tailor’s chalk or marking pen: To mark the hemline.
• Seam ripper: For removing existing stitching if necessary.

Preparing Your Trench Coat:

1. Clean the coat: Wash or dry clean your trench coat to remove any dirt or wrinkles.
2. Try it on: Put on your trench coat and determine the desired hem length.
3. Mark the hemline: Use tailor’s chalk or a marking pen to mark the new hemline around the entire coat. Make sure the line is even and straight.

Hemming Technique: Choosing the Right Method

There are two primary ways to hem a trench coat:

1. Machine Hem: This method involves using a sewing machine to create a durable and professional-looking hem. It’s suitable for most trench coats and offers a clean, finished edge.

2. Hand Hem: For a more delicate finish, a hand-sewn hem can be an excellent choice. This method involves using a needle and thread to stitch the hem in place. While it requires more time and patience, it can create a very refined look.

Choosing the Right Method:

• For a strong and durable hem: Opt for a machine hem.
• For a delicate and discreet hem: Choose a hand-sewn hem.
• Consider the fabric weight: Heavier fabrics may require a machine hem for better support.

Step-by-Step Guide: Hemming Your Trench Coat

Now, let’s get into the practical steps of hemming your trench coat.

1. Remove the Existing Hem (If Necessary):

• If your trench coat already has a hem, carefully remove it using a seam ripper.
• Be sure to remove all the existing stitching and trim any excess fabric.

2. Turn Up the Hem:

• Fold the fabric up to your marked hemline.
• Press the fold with an iron to create a sharp crease.
• Pin the fold in place along the entire hemline.

3. Machine Hemming:

• Set your sewing machine: Choose a straight stitch and adjust the stitch length as needed.
• Sew along the fold: Sew along the pinned edge of the fold, leaving a small seam allowance.
• Press the hem: Press the hem from the inside out to create a clean, flat finish.

4. Hand Hemming:

• Use a slip stitch: This stitch is invisible and creates a very neat finish.
• Thread your needle: Choose a matching thread and thread your needle.
• Stitch along the fold: Make small, even stitches along the fold, catching the fabric edge on the inside and the turned-up fabric on the outside.
• Press the hem: Press the hem from the inside out to create a flat finish.

Finishing Touches: Achieving a Professional Look

Once you’ve completed the hemming process, there are a few finishing touches that can elevate your work and ensure a professional look.

1. Press the Seam:

• Use a hot iron to press the seam allowance flat and create a crisp finish.
• Iron from the inside out to avoid damaging the fabric.

2. Remove Pins:

• Carefully remove all the pins from the hem.

3. Check for Evenness:

• Make sure the hemline is even and straight.
• Adjust any uneven areas as needed.

Final Check: Ensuring a Perfect Fit

Before you consider your project complete, take a final look and make sure everything is perfect.

1. Try on the Coat:

• Put on your trench coat and walk around to ensure the hemline is even and comfortable.

2. Make Adjustments (If Necessary):

• If the hemline is uneven or needs further adjustment, make any necessary changes before considering your project complete.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring Additional Techniques

While the basic hemming techniques covered above are suitable for most trench coats, you might want to explore more advanced techniques for special cases or personal preferences.

1. Double Hem: For added durability, consider a double hem, where the fabric is folded twice before stitching.

2. Blind Hem: This technique creates a nearly invisible hem, ideal for delicate fabrics or when you want a very clean finish.

3. Decorative Hem: If you’re feeling creative, you can add a decorative trim or embellishment to the hem for a personalized touch.

4. Seam Binding: Using seam binding can create a clean and finished edge while adding a touch of elegance.

Wrapping Up: The Transformation is Complete

Congratulations! You’ve successfully hemmed your trench coat, giving it a custom fit and a touch of personal style. With a little practice and attention to detail, you can achieve professional-looking results that will make you feel confident and stylish.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Can I hem a trench coat without a sewing machine?

A: Yes, you can hem a trench coat by hand using a needle and thread. However, a sewing machine will provide a more durable and professional finish.

Q: How do I choose the right thread color for my trench coat?

A: Choose a thread color that matches the color of your trench coat as closely as possible. If you can’t find an exact match, opt for a slightly darker shade.

Q: What if my trench coat has a lining?

A: If your trench coat has a lining, you’ll need to hem the lining separately. Fold the lining up to the desired hemline, pin it in place, and stitch it using a machine or hand-sewing.

Q: How do I prevent the hem from fraying?

A: To prevent fraying, use a fabric sealant or serger to finish the raw edges of the fabric before hemming.

Q: How do I know if my hem is even?

A: Check the hemline by holding the coat up to a mirror and ensuring that the hem is straight and even all the way around. You can also use a measuring tape to ensure that the hem is the same length at all points.