- 1). Try the jeans on and measure the desired length before cutting off the entire hem. Mark the new hem with a piece of chalk--which could be a series of dashes that will help indicate where the cutoff point will be. Then, take the jeans off, lay the pants flat on a table and line up these dashes with a ruler to create a straight line.
- 2). Cut along this hemline and discard any excess fabric. Using a pin, remove the bottom horizontal threads along the new hemline, as this will help to initiate the frayed look. Once three or four threads are removed, the pants are ready to be washed.
- 3). Scrape the bottom of the jeans with a sharp utility knife, which is another fraying technique that can produce a more subtle effect. To achieve this look, rub the knife along the edge of the jean's hem, in spots, rather than distressing the entire hem. Once the desired spots have been worn down, wash the jeans to help complete the look.
- 4). Program the washing machine on a short, cold water wash. Use a neutral pH detergent, or, if it is not available, a cold water detergent. These chemicals tend to be more delicate than regular detergent and can help to preserve the jean's color, especially when working with darker denims.
- 5). Dry the jeans on a medium to low setting, which can help to minimize shrinkage. Once dry, the jeans should have an authentic frayed appearance.
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