What To Know
- Whether you’re a seasoned seamstress or a beginner looking to improve your skills, this comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about how to hem with a sewing machine.
- Fold and press the fabric, then use a gathering stitch to gather the fabric before sewing the hem.
- Use a curved hem guide or cut the fabric into a gentle curve before folding and sewing the hem.
Hemming is an essential sewing technique that can transform your garments, giving them a polished and professional finish. Whether you’re a seasoned seamstress or a beginner looking to improve your skills, this comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about how to hem with a sewing machine.
Materials You’ll Need
- Sewing machine
- Fabric
- Thread
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Fabric scissors
- Iron and ironing board
- Hem guide (optional)
Choosing the Right Stitch
The type of stitch you choose for hemming will depend on the fabric you’re working with and the desired look. Here are some common stitch options:
- Straight stitch: A basic stitch that creates a strong and durable hem.
- Zigzag stitch: A flexible stitch that prevents fraying and is suitable for most fabrics.
- Blind hem stitch: A nearly invisible stitch that creates a professional-looking finish.
Measuring and Marking the Hem
- Measure the desired hem length and mark it with a fabric marker or chalk.
- Fold the fabric along the marked line and press it with an iron to create a crease.
- Unfold the fabric and fold it again along the crease, ensuring that the raw edge is concealed.
Using a Hem Guide
A hem guide can make the hemming process easier and more accurate. It’s a simple tool that attaches to your sewing machine and guides the fabric as you sew.
- Insert the hem guide into your sewing machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Adjust the guide to the desired hem width.
- Place the folded fabric under the hem guide and sew along the edge.
Sewing the Hem
- Select the appropriate stitch and thread color.
- Start sewing at one end of the hem and stitch all the way around.
- If you’re using a straight stitch, backstitch at the beginning and end of the seam to reinforce it.
- For a zigzag stitch, sew over the raw edge to prevent fraying.
Finishing the Hem
- Once the hem is sewn, press it again with an iron to flatten the seam.
- Trim any excess thread.
- If desired, you can topstitch the hem for added durability and a decorative touch.
Tips for Perfect Hemming
- Use a sharp needle that is suitable for the fabric you’re working with.
- Test the stitch settings on a scrap of fabric before sewing the actual garment.
- If the fabric is thick or bulky, use a longer stitch length.
- If the fabric is delicate, use a shorter stitch length and a finer needle.
- Be patient and take your time. Hemming is a precision task that requires care and attention to detail.
Troubleshooting Common Hemming Problems
- Puckering: This can occur if the stitch length is too short or the fabric is stretched while sewing.
- Waving: This can be caused by uneven stitching or using the wrong stitch type.
- Fraying: This can be prevented by using a zigzag stitch or a fray-check solution.
- Loose hem: This can be fixed by using a stronger stitch or backstitching at the beginning and end of the seam.
Answers to Your Questions
1. What is the best stitch for hemming?
The best stitch will depend on the fabric and desired look. Straight stitch, zigzag stitch, and blind hem stitch are common options.
2. How do I prevent the hem from fraying?
Use a zigzag stitch or apply a fray-check solution to the raw edge.
3. How do I make the hem invisible?
Use a blind hem stitch or hand-stitch the hem using matching thread.
4. How do I hem a round edge?
Fold and press the fabric, then use a gathering stitch to gather the fabric before sewing the hem.
5. How do I hem a curved edge?
Use a curved hem guide or cut the fabric into a gentle curve before folding and sewing the hem.
