For a modern cropped look, try hemming them so they hit right at your ankle bone. However, you can cut them to any length you like, from mid-calf capris to barely grazing the floor, depending on the length you started with. Keep in mind that unless you hem them, your jeans will fray somewhat after you cut them. If you plant to let them fray, you’ll actually need to cut about 1⁄2 in (1. 3 cm) below the mark, so you may want to take that into account when you’re deciding on the length. If you are planning to hem the jeans, leave an extra 1 in (2. 5 cm) of length for the seams.
Do not attempt to use dull scissors to cut denim. You’ll end up with a jagged, messy-looking hem. If you’d like, after you cut the first leg, you can use the strip you removed as a template to ensure both legs are exactly the same length. Just line it up perfectly with the hem of the opposite leg, then cut along the top edge. If you’re concerned it will slip, you can pin it into place before you cut.
This look combines the chic look of cropped jeans in the front with a flattering long line in the back.
Folding the hem twice will give you a neater edge. However, if your sewing machine isn’t made for heavy fabrics like denim, only fold the hem up once. You can use thread that blends into the jeans or you can opt for a contrasting color, like yellow thread.
If you cut your jeans too short and you don’t like how they look, consider making a pair of cutoffs instead!
If you don’t want your jeans to fray, hand wash them as needed and hang them to dry. Use scissors to trim the white threads as they unravel.
If you’re in doubt, choose a pair of jeans that are about a size bigger than you normally wear. [5] X Research source Jeans with little or no stretch will be more durable after you cut them.
If you want to cuff your jeans, leave about an extra 2 in (5. 1 cm) of fabric at the ends. Since the shorts will fray, it’s best to leave an extra 1⁄2 in (1. 3 cm) or so on the length. Remember, it’s always better to leave them longer than to cut them too short, since you can always cut more later if you need to. [7] X Research source
If you cut straight across your jeans, the end result will actually look uneven, and you could end up exposing a lot more skin than you meant to. [9] X Research source
Using very sharp scissors will help keep you from having to stop and restart, which can result in jagged cuts.
This should ensure that your pant’s legs end up exactly the same length.
For extra security, sew a single stitch through the outside edge of each cuff.
The best way to get that lived-in look is to wear your shorts until they fray naturally!
Popular spots for distressing include the knees, thighs, and back pockets of jeans.
To make a bigger hole, add more strips, the same width apart. If you want the hole to look more natural, make the strips wider in the middle, then gradually shorter to the top and bottom, similar to the shape of a diamond. [18] X Research source
Try using sandpaper around the edges of some of your other distressing to make it look even more realistic!
This will dull the razor blade, so don’t attempt to use it for shaving after you’re finished.
This is a great way to add a subtle detail near a pocket or the waistband, for instance.
