Quick How To Hem Shorts Without A Sewing Machine Steps

Can you hem shorts without a sewing machine? Yes, absolutely! You can hem shorts by hand using simple sewing stitches or use no sew methods like fabric glue or iron on hem tape. This post will show you easy ways to do it. We will cover quick hem shorts no sewing options and how to hem shorts by hand. We will also look at ways to make a temporary hem shorts without sewing.

Grasping Why Hemming Matters

Why hem shorts? Hemming finishes the raw edge of the fabric. It stops the fabric from fraying. A good hem makes your shorts look nice and clean. It also helps the shorts hang better. If you cut your shorts or the old hem came out, you need a new one. You can easily do this without a sewing machine.

Things You Need

You need some basic tools to hem shorts without a sewing machine. The tools depend on the method you choose.

For Hand Sewing:

Shorts to hem
Sharp scissors (fabric scissors are best)
Measuring tape or ruler
Fabric marker, chalk, or pins
Needle (small to medium size)
Thread (matching your shorts’ fabric color)
Iron and ironing board (optional, but helpful)
Thimble (optional, helps push the needle)

For No-Sew Methods:

Shorts to hem
Sharp scissors
Measuring tape or ruler
Fabric marker, chalk, or pins
Iron and ironing board (needed for iron-on methods)
Fabric glue for hemming shorts OR iron on hem tape for shorts OR fusible web for hemming fabric

Prepping Your Shorts

Before you start hemming, you need to prep your shorts. This step is the same for all methods.

Try them on: Put on the shorts. Fold up the bottom edge to the length you want. Use pins to hold the fold in place. Make sure both legs are the same length.
Mark the new hemline: Take off the shorts carefully. Use a ruler and fabric marker or chalk to make a line all around the bottom edge where you folded it. This is your new hemline.
Add hem allowance: You need extra fabric to fold up. This is the hem allowance. Measure below your marked line. Add 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm). Mark another line all around. This is your cutting line if you need to trim. If the shorts are already short enough, this line is where the raw edge will sit inside the hem.
Cut the fabric: If the shorts are too long, cut along the lower line you marked. Cut off the extra fabric.
Press the hem: Fold the fabric up along the top line you marked (the new hemline). Press this fold with an iron. This makes a crisp edge. Then, fold the raw edge up again to meet the first fold. Press this second fold. This hides the raw edge inside the hem.

Now your shorts are ready for hemming!

Hemming By Hand: A Classic Way

Hemming by hand gives you good control. It can be slower than machine sewing, but it is not hard. It makes a strong hem. This is how to hem shorts by hand.

Picking Your Thread and Needle

Thread: Choose thread that matches your shorts’ fabric color. Get good quality thread. Cotton or polyester thread works well.
Needle: Use a needle size that fits your fabric and thread. A medium-size needle (like a size 7 or 8) is good for most fabrics. A sharper needle is better for denim or thicker fabric.

Getting Ready to Sew

Thread your needle. Do not make the thread too long. About 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) is a good length.
Tie a knot at the end of the thread. A simple double knot works fine.
Hold the pressed hem of the shorts. The folded edge should be towards you.

The Hem Stitch: Simple and Strong

The basic hem stitch is easy. It makes a strong stitch that does not show much on the outside. This is a common hand sewing hem stitch.

Start inside the folded hem. Push the needle into the folded edge of the hem allowance. Pull the thread through until the knot catches inside the fold.
Move a short distance (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch or 0.5 to 1 cm) to the left.
Pick up just one or two threads from the main fabric of the shorts, right above the folded edge. Be careful not to go all the way through the fabric. You want the stitch to be almost hidden on the outside.
Push the needle back into the folded hem allowance, directly across from where you picked up the main fabric threads.
Pull the thread through gently. Do not pull too tight, or the hem will pucker.
Repeat these steps: move left, pick up a tiny bit of main fabric, push needle back into the fold, pull thread.
Keep going around the whole leg opening.
When you reach the start, tie a knot to secure the thread. Do this inside the hem. Take a small stitch, but do not pull it tight. Loop the thread around the needle two times. Pull the needle through the loops. Pull tight to make a knot. You can make a second knot for extra strength. Cut the thread.

The Blind Stitch By Hand: An Invisible Hem

The blind stitch by hand is great if you do not want to see the stitches on the outside. It takes a little practice but gives a very clean look.

Prepare your shorts and thread your needle like for the basic hem stitch.
Fold the hem up and press it as described before. Then, fold the top edge of the hem allowance down about 1/4 inch (0.5 cm) and press it. This hides the raw edge better for a blind stitch. Or, just fold the hem once, leaving the raw edge inside the fold, as is common for many shorts. The blind stitch works well with the raw edge hidden inside a double fold.
Now, fold the hem back against the shorts leg. Fold it so the top edge of the hem allowance (the edge you will sew through) is about 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.5 to 1 cm) away from the main fabric. You are making a little fold where the hem meets the shorts.
Start inside the folded hem. Push the needle into the fold of the hem allowance. Pull the thread through.
Move a short distance (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch or 0.5 to 1 cm) to the left.
Pick up just one or two threads from the main fabric of the shorts. Go straight up from the hem allowance fold. Again, only pick up tiny threads on the very surface of the main fabric. Do not go through the shorts.
Angle your needle slightly to the left. Push the needle back into the folded edge of the hem allowance, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.5 to 1 cm) away from where you picked up the main fabric threads.
Pull the thread through gently. The thread should run inside the folded hem for most of the stitch. You only see tiny stitches on the main fabric.
Repeat: Pick up tiny bit of main fabric, push needle back into the hem allowance fold further along.
Keep going around the leg. Unfold the hem every so often to check your stitches. They should be very small dots on the outside.
At the end, tie off your thread inside the hem with a knot.

Both hand sewing hem stitch methods create a secure hem. They work for almost any fabric.

No-Sew Hemming: Quick Solutions

Sometimes you need a really quick hem shorts no sewing needed. Or maybe you just do not like hand sewing. No-sew options are fast and easy. They are great for a quick fix or for fabrics that do not fray much. They are also good for hemming denim shorts no sew.

Using Fabric Glue for Hemming Shorts

Fabric glue is an easy way to make a no sew hem shorts. It is simple like using paper glue, but it is made for fabric. Most fabric glues are washable and permanent once they dry.

Prep your shorts as described before. Cut the fabric if needed. Fold up the hem and press it. You will have a double fold: the raw edge is folded up once, then the whole thing is folded up again.
Open the second fold. You will see the lower fold (where the raw edge is hidden).
Put a thin line of fabric glue along the inside edge of this lower fold. Do not use too much glue. A little goes a long way. Too much glue can seep through or make the fabric stiff.
Carefully fold the hem up again, pressing the glued edge down onto the shorts fabric. Line it up with the crease you made earlier.
Press firmly along the glued area.
Let the glue dry completely. Check the glue bottle for drying time. It might take a few hours. Do not wash the shorts until the glue is fully cured (usually 24 hours or more).
Repeat on the other leg.

Pros: Fast, easy, no sewing skills needed, great for quick hem shorts no sewing.
Cons: Hem can be stiff, might not hold up over many washes (check the glue type), some glues might show through thin fabric. Not ideal for very stretchy or heavy fabrics. Good for hemming denim shorts no sew.

Using Iron On Hem Tape for Shorts

Iron on hem tape is a strip of adhesive web. You place it between the fabric layers of your hem. When you iron it, it melts and glues the fabric together. This is a very popular no sew method. It is also called fusible web for hemming fabric.

Prep your shorts by cutting, folding, and pressing the hem. You should have a double fold. The raw edge is hidden inside.
Open the second fold (the main hem fold).
Cut a piece of iron on hem tape the length of the hem opening. Place the tape inside the fold, right along the top edge of the lower fold (where the raw edge is). Make sure the tape is between the two layers of the hem fabric.
Fold the hem up again, carefully covering the hem tape.
Place a damp cloth over the hem (this is often needed for iron-on tape to work best, check package directions).
Press down firmly with a hot iron. Do not slide the iron. Hold it in place for about 10-15 seconds.
Lift the iron and the cloth. Move to the next section of the hem. Overlap slightly.
Continue around the whole hem.
Let the hem cool completely. The glue needs to set as it cools.
Repeat on the other leg.

Pros: Fast, easy, makes a neat hem, no sewing needed, quick hem shorts no sewing. Works well for many fabrics including hemming denim shorts no sew.
Cons: Hem can be stiff, might come undone over time or with hot washes, some tapes are thicker and can be seen on the outside.

Here is a table comparing fabric glue and iron-on hem tape:

Feature	Fabric Glue for Hemming Shorts	Iron On Hem Tape for Shorts / Fusible Web for Hemming Fabric
Ease of Use	Very Easy	Easy (requires iron)
Speed	Quick to apply, slow to dry	Quick to apply, quick to set with iron
Appearance	Can be invisible if thin layer used	Can add slight bulk, might show through thin fabric
Durability	Varies by glue type, often permanent after cure	Varies by tape type, often permanent after cooling
Stiffness	Can be stiff	Can be stiff
Best For	Quick fixes, non-washable items (check glue), hemming denim shorts no sew	Quick fixes, more durable no-sew, hemming denim shorts no sew
Materials Needed	Glue, scissors, ruler, markers	Hem tape, iron, ironing board, damp cloth, scissors, ruler, markers

Temporary Hems: Short-Term Fixes

Sometimes you just need a temporary hem shorts without sewing. Maybe for a special event, or to try a length before making it permanent. There are easy ways to do this.

Using Fabric Tape or Hemming Tape

There is special double-sided fabric tape or hemming tape for temporary use. It is not the same as iron-on tape. It just sticks.

Prep your shorts by folding up the hem to the length you want. Press the fold. You only need one fold here.
Cut pieces of the double-sided fabric tape.
Stick the tape along the inside edge of the folded hem.
Remove the backing from the tape.
Carefully press the folded hem down onto the shorts fabric.
Rub along the hem to make the tape stick well.

Pros: Super fast, very easy, no tools needed besides the tape and maybe scissors. A true temporary hem shorts without sewing.
Cons: Not washable, will likely come undone quickly, might not hold on heavier fabrics.

Using Safety Pins (for Emergency)

Safety pins are a last resort for a very quick temporary hem.

Fold up the hem to the desired length.
Use small safety pins. Place them every few inches along the inside of the fold.
Pin them parallel to the hem edge, inside the fold, so they do not show much on the outside.

Pros: Very quick emergency fix, uses items you might have already.
Cons: Pins can come undone, they might snag other fabric, not very neat, can be felt against the leg.

These temporary methods are great for a quick fix but are not meant to last.

Step-by-Step Guide: No-Sew Hemming Denim Shorts

Hemming denim shorts no sew is very popular. Denim is a good fabric for no-sew methods because it is thick. Glue and iron-on tape work well. Let us walk through the iron-on tape method for denim, as it is quite durable for a no-sew option.

Materials for Denim Hemming No Sew:

Denim shorts
Sharp scissors
Measuring tape or ruler
Fabric marker or chalk
Iron on hem tape (look for one suitable for medium to heavy fabrics)
Iron and ironing board
Damp pressing cloth

Steps:

Measure and Mark: Put on the shorts. Fold the hem up to the length you like. Pin it. Take off the shorts. Use ruler and marker to mark the new hemline around each leg.
Add Hem Allowance: Measure down 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 3.5 cm) from the hemline. Mark this cutting line. Denim is thick, so you do not need a very wide hem allowance.
Cut: Cut off the extra denim below your cutting line. Use sharp scissors, denim can be tough to cut.
First Fold: Fold the raw edge up by about 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.5 to 1 cm). Press this fold with a hot iron. A pressing cloth can protect the denim. This helps hide the raw edge.
Second Fold: Fold the hem up again, along your marked hemline. Press this fold well. You now have a double fold hem with the raw edge tucked inside.
Insert Hem Tape: Open the second fold. Cut iron on hem tape to fit inside the hem. Place the tape along the edge of the lower fold (the one with the raw edge inside). Make sure the tape is inside the hem, not sticking out.
Iron the Hem: Fold the hem back up, covering the tape. Place your damp pressing cloth over the hem. Press down firmly with a hot iron for 10-15 seconds. Lift the iron and move to the next spot. Keep doing this all around the hem.
Cool Down: Let the hem cool flat and still. Do not move or wear the shorts until they are completely cool. The adhesive hardens as it cools.
Check: Gently feel the hem. It should be stuck down firmly. If any spots are loose, press them again with the iron and damp cloth.
Repeat: Do the same steps for the other leg.

This method is a great way for hemming denim shorts no sew. It holds well because denim is sturdy.

Comparing Hemming Methods

Here is a quick comparison of the different ways to hem shorts without a sewing machine.

Method	Speed	Durability	Appearance	Skill Needed	Materials Cost
Hand Sewing Hem Stitch	Medium	High	Neat, small stitches might show	Basic hand sewing	Low
Blind Stitch by Hand	Medium	High	Very neat, stitches almost hidden	Some practice	Low
Fabric Glue	Quick	Medium (varies by glue)	Can be stiff, might show on thin fabric	Very Low	Low
Iron On Hem Tape / Fusible Web	Quick	Medium (varies by tape)	Can be stiff, might show on thin fabric	Low (needs iron)	Low to Medium
Fabric Tape (Temp)	Very Quick	Low (not washable)	Not very neat	Very Low	Low
Safety Pins (Temp)	Emergency Quick	Very Low (emergency only)	Can be seen and felt	Very Low	Very Low

For a long-lasting, clean finish, hand sewing is best. For a quick hem shorts no sewing, iron-on tape or fabric glue are good choices. For a truly temporary fix, fabric tape or pins work.

Deciphering Fabric Types

The type of fabric matters when choosing a hemming method.

Lightweight Fabrics (Cotton Lawn, Rayon): Hand sewing (especially blind stitch) works well for a soft, flowy hem. Fabric glue or iron-on tape can make these fabrics stiff or show through.
Medium-Weight Fabrics (Cotton Poplin, Linen): Hand sewing or iron-on hem tape are good options. Fabric glue can work but be careful not to use too much.
Heavy Fabrics (Denim, Canvas): No-sew methods like fabric glue or iron on hem tape are often used for hemming denim shorts no sew because they are faster than sewing thick fabric by hand. Hand sewing is possible but needs a strong needle and thread.
Stretchy Fabrics (Jersey, Knit): Hemming stretchy fabric by hand is hard because it can stretch and pucker. No-sew methods might not stretch with the fabric and could crack or come undone. For best results, stretchy fabrics usually need a sewing machine stitch that stretches. But if you must hem by hand, use a stretch needle and a loose stitch, or a very flexible fabric glue.

Tips for a Great Hem

Press everything: Ironing helps create crisp folds. This makes it easier to sew or glue. Pressing also helps iron-on tape stick well.
Use the right tools: Sharp scissors cut cleanly. A ruler or measuring tape helps you make even lines.
Test first: If using glue or iron-on tape on a new fabric, test a small piece first. See how it holds and if it shows through or makes the fabric too stiff.
Go slow: Take your time, especially with hand sewing. Small, even stitches look better and are stronger.
Check your work: Look at the hem from the outside as you go. Make sure stitches are not showing (if doing blind stitch) or that the glue/tape is not visible.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Hem is Wavy or Puckered: You might be pulling your thread too tight when hand sewing. Or the iron-on tape/glue might be too stiff or applied unevenly. Try loosening your stitch tension or using less glue/tape. Pressing the hem well before sewing/gluing helps prevent puckers.
Stitches Show Too Much: For blind stitch by hand, you might be picking up too much fabric from the shorts leg. Try picking up only one or two threads right on the surface. Make sure your thread matches the fabric well.
Glue Shows Through: You might have used too much fabric glue. Apply a thinner line next time. Test the glue on scrap fabric first.
Hem Comes Undone: The adhesive might not be strong enough for the fabric or washings. Make sure you followed the glue or tape instructions exactly (heat settings, drying time, washing instructions). For hand sewing, make sure your knots are secure at the start and end.
Hem is Uneven: Did you measure and mark your hemline carefully before cutting and folding? Use a ruler and make marks all the way around. Pressing the fold makes a clear line to follow.

The Craft of Hand Sewing

Hand sewing a hem is a classic sewing skill. It takes practice to make the stitches look perfect. But even simple, slightly uneven stitches are fine! They show it was made by hand. A hand sewn hem is often more flexible and durable than a no-sew hem, especially after many washes. Learning the basic hand sewing hem stitch and the blind stitch by hand is a great skill for quick repairs or hemming without a machine. It gives you control over every stitch.

Final Checks

Once you have finished hemming both legs using your chosen method:

Inspect the hem: Look at it closely. Is it even? Is it smooth? Are the stitches (if hand sewing) neat and secure? Is the glue/tape holding well?
Trim threads: If you hand sewed, make sure all loose thread ends are trimmed close to the knots.
Final Press: Give the hem a final press with an iron (using a pressing cloth if needed, especially for no-sew methods) to set everything nicely. For glue, wait until it is fully dry before pressing.

You now have freshly hemmed shorts, done without a sewing machine! Whether you used a hand sewing hem stitch, blind stitch by hand, fabric glue for hemming shorts, or iron on hem tape for shorts, you achieved your goal.

Why Choose No-Sew?

People choose no-sew methods for many reasons:

Speed: They are often much faster than hand sewing. This is great for a quick hem shorts no sewing needed.
No Skill: You do not need to know how to sew. Anyone can use fabric glue or iron-on tape.
No Equipment: You do not need a sewing machine. You might need an iron, but many homes have one.
Fabric Type: For some fabrics, like very thick denim, hemming denim shorts no sew methods can be easier than pushing a needle through many layers by hand.

Grasping Durability and Washing

How long will your no-sew hem last? How will it handle washing?

Fabric Glue: Check the glue bottle. Most fabric glues say if they are washable and permanent. Follow the washing instructions carefully. Cool water and gentle cycles are best. Avoid high heat in the dryer.
Iron On Hem Tape / Fusible Web: Check the tape package. Most are designed to be washable. Again, cooler wash and dry settings will help the adhesive last longer.
Hand Sewing: A hand sewn hem using strong thread is usually very durable and can withstand many washes. The stitches flex with the fabric better than glue or tape.

If you need a hem that will last for years and many washes, hand sewing is generally the most reliable method without a machine. For shorter life or less frequent washing, no-sew methods are good.

Quick Hem Shorts No Sewing: Best Methods

If your main goal is speed and no sewing at all, the best methods for a quick hem shorts no sewing are:

Iron On Hem Tape: Needs an iron, but sets quickly and is fairly durable for a no-sew option. Good for hemming denim shorts no sew.
Fabric Glue: Fast to apply, just needs drying time. Also works for hemming denim shorts no sew.
Temporary Fabric Tape: Super fast, but only for a very short time.

Choose the one that fits your fabric and how long you need the hem to last.

Interpreting the Raw Edge

What happens to the raw edge inside the hem?

Hand Sewing: With a double fold hem (folding the raw edge up, then folding the whole hem up), the raw edge is tucked inside the fold. This protects it from fraying. If you only fold the hem once (less common for shorts), you might need to finish the raw edge in another way (like using Fray Check liquid or making tiny stitches over the edge, though this is more work). Most hand hemming uses a double fold.
No-Sew (Glue/Tape): With a double fold, the raw edge is hidden inside. The glue or tape holds the layers together, further protecting the raw edge. This is why the double fold is recommended for these methods too.

Always aim to hide the raw edge inside a fold if you can. This makes the hem much neater and stops fraying.

Final Reflections

Hemming shorts without a sewing machine is very doable. You have options from simple hand sewing to quick no-sew fixes. Consider your fabric, how much time you have, and how long you need the hem to last. With a little care, you can give your shorts a neat, finished look using just a few simple tools or materials. Whether you choose a hand sewing hem stitch, a blind stitch by hand, or rely on fabric glue for hemming shorts or iron on hem tape for shorts, you can get the job done quickly and easily. Enjoy your newly hemmed shorts!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do you temporarily hem shorts without sewing?

A: You can use double-sided fabric tape or small safety pins inside the hem fold for a temporary hem shorts without sewing. These are quick but not meant for washing or long-term wear.

Q: What is the easiest way to hem shorts without a sewing machine?

A: The easiest way is usually using fabric glue for hemming shorts or iron on hem tape for shorts. These methods require no sewing skills and can be very fast.

Q: Can I use fabric glue to hem denim shorts?

A: Yes, fabric glue can be used for hemming denim shorts no sew. Choose a strong fabric glue suitable for heavier fabrics.

Q: Is iron on hem tape washable?

A: Most iron on hem tape for shorts is washable. Check the product packaging for specific washing instructions and durability. Cooler wash settings help it last longer.

Q: What is a blind stitch by hand?

A: A blind stitch by hand is a sewing stitch done by hand that is almost invisible on the outside of the fabric. You pick up only one or two threads from the main fabric and pass the needle through the fold of the hem.

Q: How much fabric do I need to fold up for a hem?

A: Typically, you fold up 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.5 to 1 cm) for the first fold (to hide the raw edge), then another 1 inch (2.5 cm) or more for the main hem. The total hem allowance needed before folding is usually 1.5 to 2 inches (3.5 to 5 cm).

Q: Can I hem stretchy shorts without a sewing machine?

A: Hemming stretchy fabric without a sewing machine is tricky. Hand sewing might cause puckering. No-sew methods might crack or not stretch. A machine stitch designed for knits is best. If you must, use a very flexible glue or a hand stitch with very little tension.

Q: What is fusible web for hemming fabric?

A: Fusible web for hemming fabric is another name for iron on hem tape. It is a thin web of adhesive that melts when ironed, gluing two layers of fabric together.