Why is the hem cut diagonally when pants narrow toward the bottom?

• A. To ensure the final finish is straight at the desired length and to prevent shifting of the hem when worn
• B. To create a curved hem
• C. To save fabric
• D. To speed up sewing

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is how tapering affects the finished hem and why a diagonal cut helps keep that edge neat. When pants narrow toward the bottom, the leg’s circumference becomes smaller as you move down. If you cut the hem straight across, the bottom edge can end up at an angle or shift because the fabric has to tighten around the tapered shape. Cutting the hem diagonally compensates for that taper, so the final hem length stays straight and even all the way around once the pants are worn and the leg narrows. This keeps the edge from riding up or twisting and makes the finished hem sit correctly at the desired length. It isn’t about creating a curved hem, saving fabric, or speeding up sewing.