Find suitable tights. The best tights to turn into leggings will be those that have a high denier, or strength of fabric. Tights made from cotton, wool, bamboo or opaque synthetics may work best. Transparent or lightweight denier won't usually turn into good leggings and risk more tears and runs. And, as noted above, if the toes or heels have gone in the tights, all the better, as you're rescuing them!
Decide upon the length of the leggings you'd prefer. It's probably best to begin with a long length, which allows you to change to a shorter length at a later time for a different look.
Cut your tights at the chosen length. Add an extra inch (2.5cm) for a hem before cutting. Cut as neatly and straight as possible, using sharp sewing scissors.
Turn the cut fabric over twice to create a half-inch (1.27cm) hemline.
Stitch the hems in place by hand. Use an even, small stitch in the same color as the tights or in invisible thread.
If wished, you can add embroidery, lace, beads, sequins, etc. for decoration. Doing this will make the tights harder to wash though and will weaken the fabric by making sewing holes, so bear this in mind before deciding.
Wear your new leggings. They'll look great with a skirt or long top.
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