Thursday, February 7, 2008

5 Step Hem

Narrow Rolled Hem Tutorial


It's not hard. It doesn't take long. That narrow roll looks intimidating. Don't let it fool you! It's just five (yes 5) simple steps.
I've been altering formal clothing for over 20 years. This is how it's done outside the factory. Yes, you could use the narrow rolled hem foot. But there is a problem with that. It works great on straight of grain. Most dress or skirt hems have some bias. When bias is present the fabric does not want to roll easily. The garment will bunch up on the foot. This process is a winner every time!


STEP 1: Mark your fabric 1/16" longer than your finished hem length.


Step 2: Fold you garment on your marked line and sew close to the edge. If you want you can press this but it's not needed.


Step 3: Cut off the excess fabric close to your stitching. Be careful. Large scissors work better. The closer you cut to your stitching the narrower you hem will be.


Step 4: Fold your narrow hem up. Your fabric will fold right where you made your cut. Then sew right on top of your first sewing line. So it will look like one line of sewing when you are done.


Step 5: Press. It's just that easy. Look at your beautiful hem!

2 comments:

Esther Sunday said...

Greetings, Debbie! I have been bouncing around here this morning during my visit. You are quite the seamtress. Sewing clothes is one of the crafts I haven't done. Have a machine, of course, and I just wing it with my projects. It is nice to see how things really should be done. I love those jackets below! I ADORE older homes. They just ooze with character! Your kitchen is so cozy looking. I do hope you will profile your home. With love, Esther

Debbie said...

Thanks for visiting Esther. I love sharing my passions with all of you. Sewing and old houses are just two. I'll be showing pictures of this old home soon. Hope you visit again.
Thanks, Debbie