Creasing Men's Trousers - Sew News Magazine

Sewing Q&A
Terry Siemsen
August 2002 Sewing Q&A Index

Is there a trick to making a perfect crease like in men's ready-to-wear trousers? I've noticed a plastic-like bead in my husband's pants and was wondering what they did. I would like to duplicate this in my slacks.
Laura S.,
e-mail

To permanently set the creases in slacks, use fusible thread.

Locate the crease by placing the leg inseams and side seams directly over each other, then press the resulting crease in place. Don't iron by sliding the iron up and down the leg. Instead, lift the iron and move it to each section to avoid stretching. Use a press cloth to prevent shine. Allow the pants to cool before moving them.
Cut a length of fusible thread a few inches longer than the crease.
Place the fusible thread within the crease fold on the fabric wrong side; press in place following the manufacturer's instructions. Allow the fabric to cool. Note: To set the crease, use a wooden tailor's clapper and apply pressure to the crease while the fabric cools.

As a former home economics teacher, Terry Siemsen is always looking for the easiest way to achieve a beautiful-looking garment, both inside and out. She is the owner of Thimbles, Etc., specializing in custom-sized sterling and gold thimbles.

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