The right cuff can add a touch of class to an old pair of jeans or make the hem of your trousers unique, cool your ankles or allow you to show off your favorite shoes. However, what's the best part about a lapel? It's free! Experiment with different types of cuffs to vary your look. If you find a cuff that you particularly like, it will be enough to secure it with some hand stitches.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Deciding on the Style of the Lapel
Step 1. Take a look at images of different types of cuffs
In case you haven't noticed, there are implications everywhere, in many different forms. Do some research in fashion magazines or online, or just look at how other people cuff their jeans.
Step 2. Find a hem that's right for you
Factors to consider are the width and weight of the jeans, the type of footwear you want to match and whether you prefer a hem that makes you look taller. Here is an approximate list of various types of lapels:
- Single cuff: jeans are rolled up only once by about 2-3 cm, with the possibility of tucking the hem under the rolled part. This method is suitable for different types of jeans and all body types, thanks to its moderate length. However, avoid thin footwear as it would look too much like a slipper under this non-tapered cuff.
- Long cuff: like the single cuff, but increasing the size to about 5 cm. This is to have a trouser hem to show off; however, this cuff is not suitable if you have a smaller or stocky build, as its length tends to sag. A more casual variation is achieved by slightly curling the cuff to give it thickness and texture.
- Fitted cuff: a mini cuff (about 1.5 cm) made of three small and narrow cuffs performed on the hem. Given the tight-fitting effect, this look is better suited to a lean build and a light denim fabric. This look emphasizes delicate shoes, while heavy footwear is to be discarded.
- Double lapel (thick lapel): First, make a lapel of about 2.5cm, then another about 5cm. This type of cuff is best suited to medium or light weight jeans; heavier jeans will give the cuff a more massive structure. You can combine medium-weight or heavy shoes. Pay attention to the fact that the thickness of this lapel can make you look shorter.
- Internal flap: instead of folding the flap outwards, insert it inwards. The original hem is hidden and appears very smooth. The jean fabric has to be quite heavy to hold this fold. Depending on the width of the jeans and how much fabric you have folded inwards, this cuff can adapt to different types of footwear. Another benefit is that it can make you look taller.
Step 3. Put on the jeans and roll up
Stand in front of a full-length mirror if possible.
- If you wear your favorite shoes and t-shirt, you will get a better general idea of the cuff.
- You can use a tape measure or ruler to make the initial flap, then adjust it to your liking.
Step 4. Note the size of the cuff fold
With a tape measure or ruler, measure the length of each fold in the cuff and write this down. You will need it in the next section.
Part 2 of 3: Do the Proof Flap
Step 1. Wash your jeans
Use a gentle cold wash cycle to prevent the garment from fading or shrinking.
- Follow the washing instructions on the inner label of the jeans, if any. It may require washing the jeans inside out.
- Take the jeans out of the washing machine as soon as you finish the wash cycle to avoid possible wrinkling of the fabric.
Step 2. Lay the jeans out on a flat surface when they are still wet
Flatten the material as much as possible with your hands.
You can spread a large, thick towel under your jeans if you are afraid of getting the flat surface wet
Step 3. Make the cuff
With your notes on the length of the fold, shape the bottom edge of the jeans until it is folded into a cuff. Make sure there are as few wrinkles as possible.
Repeat the operation on the other leg of the jeans, making sure that the two cuffs are the same length
Step 4. Let the jeans dry
While they dry, keep them flat on a flat surface. Even if you prefer to hang them on a clothesline or shower shelf, doing so would risk the flap slipping.
- A clothesline for sweaters might come in handy, if you have one (if the jeans are too long, you can leave the waist fabric outside the edge).
- From time to time, turn the pants over on the other side to let them dry evenly.
Step 5. Iron the jeans
Once the jeans are dry, take out the ironing board and heat the iron.
- Once again, consult the label of the jeans to set a suitable temperature. It may require a medium or high temperature.
- Hot iron both sides, eliminating any wrinkles.
- Iron the cuffs (unless you want them curled like in the casual version of the long cuff).
Step 6. Try on jeans with the new cuff
Try the cuff with different types of clothing and shoes to see how you like it best. If you think you've found the cuff that's right for you, it's time to sew.
If you've worn jeans many times, you may need to repeat Part 2, Steps 1 through 6, before sewing
Part 3 of 3: Sew the Cuff
Step 1. Remove the jeans and take needle and thread
Use thread that is a similar color to jeans. The needle must be sharp enough and strong enough to penetrate the thick layers of the denim fabric, so it is best to use a leather needle. However, if your jeans are light, just have a medium thick needle.
Step 2. With stitches, secure the flap
Do this in two places on both legs, where the vertical hem of the pants meets the horizontal hem of the cuff.
- Start threading the needle from the inside of the leg and make a sufficient number of stitches to secure the cuff.
- It is better not to let the needle reach the outside of the cuff. Sew only the first layer of the hem.
Step 3. Finish each side with a knot on the inside of the cuff
Repeat the operation on the other leg of the jeans. Done!
Advice
- By sewing the cuff only in two places, you will be able to remove it with relative ease. Just cut the thread with nail scissors or a stripper and you will be ready to experiment with new types of cuffs.
- Continuously wearing jeans with a cuff can lead to faded lines of fabric. For many, this is the beauty of denim fabric and the unique feature of a single pair of trousers.
