The simplest way to fray the hem of your jeans is to do this:
1. With a sharp set of shears, cut off the hems. (You may wish to buy
jeans that are a little long, otherwise, after they are frayed they
may end up too short.)
2. Look closely at this new, raw edge. You'll see that the threads of
the denim fabric run two directions--one set of threads runs
horizontal to the floor and the other vertical to the floor. Find a
single thread that runs horizontal with the floor. Pull it completely
out.
3. Repeat step 2 three to five times. More fraying will occur
naturally as you wear and wash the jeans.
If you want to limit the amount of fraying (not a bad idea, unless you
want the jeans to eventually fray into shorts!), it's an excellent
idea to run a set of machine-sewn stitches 1/4 inch away from your
frayed edge.
If you want more subtle fraying, just cut the jean hems off and wash
and wear. Fraying will occur naturally.
For more references, see the directions given here for a frayed-edge
denim pillow: http://www.sewyoungsewfun.com/freeprojects/denimpillow/deminpillow.html
You'll probably also find this article on fraying helpful:
http://sewing.about.com/library/sewnews/library/aatips22.htm
If you want jeans with a flared ("bell bottomed") look, you should buy
them with that cut. If you don't mind adding fabric that will not
match exactly, you can cut open the side seam and insert a godet (a
triangle-shaped piece of denim or other fabric). Sew in place by
machine for the best look.
Have fun!
kriswrite
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