Sewing Information Machine Hems Decorative Hems

Stitched-band Hems Stitched-band hems are used on tailored garments or on wide circular skirts made of thin fabric. A narrow hem may be finished with 5 or 6 rows of machine stitching evenly spaced. On sheer fabrics, omit the first turn and overcast the raw edge. Hems for ruffles are quickly and easily made on the adjustable hemmer of your machine. Many types of hems may be made using this attachment.
Faced Hems Faced hems are frequently used on garments where there is insufficient material to permit a hem. Cut the facing band the desired width and length. Make a seam holding right sides of facing and garment together. Do not fold the faced hem in the seam, instead turn 1/2 inch of the garment fabric in the hem so that the facing will not show. Finish as for regular hem. Scalloped hems may be desired for pillow slips or other items.
Right-side-out Hems Right-side-out hems are often made by turning the hem up on the right side of the garment - seams must be reversed. They are sometimes made in contrasting color, or finished with piping. Reversible fabrics or fabrics that are the same on both sides are best to use.
Applied Hem Applied hem or double bindings are a decorative feature used on bedspreads and curtains, peasant-type dresses or sport clothes. A contrasting color is always used. Cut on bias and fold in half, then place one edge of binding on right side of fabric, stitch a seam leaving one edge of binding free. On wrong side of garment, turn under hem the free edge of binding on the seam edge. Stitched applied hem extension is a means of lengthening a garment. It should be cut on the bias and applied double; or cut it in the size of the finished binding and line it with a thinner fabric. Join to edge of garment as shown in illustration of applied hem.