2. 4. Stitch around the edges to prevent fraying after marking and cutting your jeans. The hooded towel turned out ok, but it was challenging. Add a zig zag stitch just below the seam you just sewed to help prevent fraying. Use a straight stitch to sew all the way around both legs. This technique is for stretch knit fabrics such as t-shirt or jersey. Sew a zigzag stitch to create a "wavy" hem, sometimes called a "lettuce edge". It is a simple stitch to use, but understanding how to set your machine to this setting, work with the stitch, and when to use it can be helpful. 3. Set the machine for the zigzag stitch. How to Hem Jeans with a Sewing Machine [Step-by-Step] 1. 5. The blind hem stitch is a variation on a normal zig zag stitch and will marginally catch the edge of the folded fabric of the garment then switch to complete several stitches in the hem allowance so that the stitching line is barely visible from the right side. I will try to make it again, though, because it is a super cute gift idea! Reply. I also found the zigzag stitch to be a challenging one. January 20, 2013 at 4:35 pm. The zigzag stitch is a setting on standard and advanced sewing machines that you can use to create a secure hem or for decorative purposes. Use a zig-zag stitch, or a serger on the edges. Pin the jeans with a 1/2 inch seam allowance on both legs. The zig zag stitch is great, and the practice this week really helped! For machines with adjustable stitch length and stitch width, select a medium stitch length and stitch width setting. You could leave it … Lorie M says. (Keep in mind that any extra fabric below the zig zag stitch will fray, but once it the fray reaches the zig zag stitch it won't continue.) Cut off the extra fabric, fold over, and iron flat.