Narrow Hems

So much of great sewing is in the details.

And so much of enjoying sewing is being efficient and accurate.

Narrow hemming on ruffles and other things like the sides of aprons can make the difference between things looking great and . . .  well . . . not so great.

Doing it faster can also make the difference in whether the project gets finished or . . . well, you know where you stash your unfinished stuff.

Here's the straight scoop on making narrow hems as quick & accurate as possible.

For a finished 1/4" hem start by sewing 1/2" from the raw edge.

You may be tempted to skip this thinking it is a waste of time. Don't. It will save you time in the end.

If want to go faster - use a longer stitch but sew straight. If you are hemming a curve like the arm curve of an apron this stitching will keep your fabric from stretching out of shape and getting those ugly ripples like cheap ready-mades.

Next use your stitches as a guide and press 1/2" to the wrong side. Your stitches should be just slightly to the back side.

Now go back and press the raw edge into the fold to make a 1/4" hem. Sew close to the folded edge.

If you are hemming a curve, press carefully so that you don't stretch things out of shape but show who is boss and press it down flat. If you think it might slip or slide as you sew you can even pin it at 90 degrees to the edge - removing the pins as you sew.

If you are hemming a shorter length and are confident you can skip the second press and tuck the hem into the fold as you sew like I am doing in the picture above.

Now there's a nice even narrow hem without fighting or %#$@ !  

You know.

Happy Sewing!