How to Make Flares Into Skinny

Tightly tapered leg "skinny" jeans are a trendy addition to any wardrobe. Their proponents say they can fit any figure and are flattering to all body types. But it can be time consuming and expensive to find just the right pair. For those who can't, or don't want to, spend the time and money on a new pair of jeans, the best solution may be to tailor a pair of well-fitting flares (or other leg style) into skinny jeans that are just the right fit.

Instructions

Determine Fit

1

Put flare leg jeans on inside out.

2

Pinch the jeans to the desired tightness along the seam that runs on the outer leg, pinning every 1 to 2 inches. Begin 1 inch above the knee (or wherever the leg begins to flare) and end at the ankle. Pins should be placed vertically and as straight as possible.

3

Remove the pants carefully and lay them flat. Adjust the pins as necessary to remove any bunching or puckering.

Prepare to Sew

4

Draw a smooth, vertical line on the inside edge of the pins, connecting it at the top to the pre-existing seam.

5

Remove the pins.

6

Re-pin one-half inch outside the newly drawn line. This provides room for the presser foot on the sewing machine.

Sew

7

Sew along newly drawn line, overlapping the existing seam one-fourth to one-half inch. Move from knee to ankle, backstitching once at the ankle to secure the new seam. Use a heavy weight thread and the appropriate machine setting for denim.

8

Try the pants on. Determine if adjustments should be made and mark them. If none are needed, trim the excess denim from the seam.

9

If adjustments are needed, remove the seam, re-pin and sew again.

10

Turn the pants right-side out. Press the hem with an iron to flatten.

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