Sewing Glossary: How to Add a Slit to a Cuff or Hem
Good morning from my sewing studio here in Florida. Today we are possibly learning something new and definitely celebrating that the sun is shining through the window and onto my projects after several days affected by the tropical storm that just went through.
If you’d like to add a slit to your sleeve cuff or the hem of your pants to give your garment an extra detail that will set it apart, it’s easier than you may think. Your sewing pattern doesn’t have to include this step, you can learn about it right here and hopefully feel empowered to try this simple technique yourself. You’ve got this!
1 – Take your two pieces of sleeve or pants and add the seam to the side until you’ve reached the spot you’d like the hem to be. I chose 1 ½ inch. You can mark this with your pins or chalk. Remember that half the length of whatever you choose will be the slit height. Mine will be a very subtle slit, I’d probably use no smaller than 2 inches (or 5cm) for a more noticeable slit.
2 – Finger press that seam open, then fold the bottom up to just above the seam height and sew the right side with the left pushed out of the way. You can turn that corner inside out now.
3 – Lay your fabric flat and fold the other side up toward the main fabric in the same manner. Again, sew from the top of the fabric edge to that fold.
4 – Use closed scissors, tweezers, a pencil or a chopstick to gently push the corners out to a point. 5 – Iron your hem neatly.
6 – Then add the finished hemline.
For this tutorial, I used the beautiful Cobalt Signature Finish 5.3 oz (currently out of stock). Linen that I had a tiny scrap of after making an amazing top for my daughter. I worked on this while wearing my lovely Rustic Juniper 7.1oz Linen green shorts that make me smile every time I wear them and are featured in this article here on the thread. The little turtle pin cushion is a pattern by another designer that I made so many years ago but is always a cheerful addition to the project space. It’s all about the little details so I hope you have fun adding little details to your garments.
One Comment
Alex James
Adding a slit to a cuff or hem is a simple sewing technique that can make your clothes more stylish and comfortable. While you’re perfecting your sewing skills, keep your wardrobe update with this Breaking Bad Jesse Pinkman Red Printed Hoodie for a cool, casual look that goes with anything!
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