Easy-to-follow, Step-by-step Instructionsfor making a Rolled Hem, or a Machine Stitched Hem.
Although this seam is accurately referred to as either a rolled hem, or a machine stitched hem, for the remainder of this tutorial we will refer to this hem as a “Rolled Hem” as making either is virtually the same procedure.
Rolled hems are often used in casual or sportswear. They may also be used for some styles of floor length dresses. A rolled hem, compared to hem that is hand-stitched, is easier for the novice to create and will result in a more professional look.
Before you begin, we encourage you to read-through all the steps, as well as the safety information at the bottom of this page.
Step 1Pin up desired hem length, on the entire hem, spacing pins close to and parallel with edge. Hold garment to self (not shown) viewing in a full length mirror. Check hem to insure evenness and consistent distance from floor.
Hint:be sure you're wearing the shoes you intended to wear with this garment. Heel height can very significantly.
Step 2Once you are satisfied with the length and evenness, press entire hem to form a crease. Be sure to use a setting on your iron that will not damage the fabric. Press with the right side of the garment facing down. In doing so, all you will see of the right side is the hem.
Step 3Measure 5/8" up from the crease created in step 2. Mark with tailor's chalk around entire hem. Note:weight of chalk line exaggerated for sake of clarity.
Step 4Cutting on clalk line created in step 3, remove excess material with scissors. Use pinking shears if the fabric is subject to raveling.
Step 5-AGrasping the cut edge, begin folding it toward the crease you created in step 2…
Step 5-B...continue folding the cut edge (as as you began in 5-A) to meet the crease created in step 2.
Step 6Fold again (as in Step 5) concealing the cut edge and pin in place. Pin entire hem, spacing pins very close to one another and parallel with edge. Some fabrics resist folding and will require additional pins.
Step 7Stitch entire hem close to fold. Remove pins as they reach the presser foot ---------- ------ - - ------ --- ---- - ------- ---- ------ ---
Step 8Press entire newly stitched hem. Be sure to use a setting on your iron that will not damage the fabric. Press on the inside (wrong side) of the garment. You're done!.
Did You Find this Tutorial Helpful?To make future Tutorials even better, we are very interested in your feedback and would appreciate hearing from you. Please let us know what you think and what other types of subjects you would like to see covered in future “How To” pages.
Safety First, Always!Our tutorials utilize methods, equipment and tools that can be dangerous. Never proceed with a tutorial without first carefully reviewing and understanding all of the instructions that accompany the equipment, tools or any other product used in the project, as well as providing yourself a safe working environment. Be aware of your own limitations and factor in your own good judgment and common sense.
NOTICE:SewNeau intends our tutorials to be reliable guides, but realizes working conditions, equipment, skill level, and safety issues can vary greatly. As a result, SewNeau does not guarantee the applicability, completeness, or accuracy of the information and does not assume responsibility for the results, or any damages, injuries or losses that occur as a result of using the information provided herein.
Seamstress, alterations, tailoring, clothing repair, dressmaking
Serving Cleveland Ohio women & men since 1984