Steps to do a Blind Hem with a Sewing Machine
Blind hemming is a common way to join fabrics and create neat, secure sewing. Blind hemming gives the stitches a clean, professional look and feel. Blind hems are common on skirts, suits, trousers, and skirts. With the right technique, a blind hem can easily be completed on a sewing machine.
Before beginning to stitch, prepare the fabric. Wash and iron the fabric. To ensure an even surface for sewing, press the edges of the two fabrics together. Make sure that the fabrics are the same size. To make accurate measurements, use a measuring tape or a fabric ruler. Take the time to line up the edges of the fabric pieces so that the final product looks professional.
Next, set up the sewing machine for a blind hem stitch. Depending on the model of the machine, this stitch may have its own selection. Consult the manual that came with the machine for directions on setting up the stitch. Generally, the stitch should be set up with an elongated “stitch length” and a medium “stitch width.” Users who are just starting out with blind hemming should set the stitch width to a smaller number.
Once the machine is set up, place the fabric under the sewing machine’s foot. As the machine stitches, hold the edges of the fabric together to avoid the lower edge from “walking” or getting stretched out of shape.
When starting to stitch, make sure to do a few lines of reverse stitching or ‘backstitching’ before sewing the blind hem into place. This will help keep the stitches securely in place. To create a true blind hem, it is best to position the needle so it will do an interim stitch. This stitch is not visible from the outside of the fabric. Most machines are designed so that the needle will automatically do an interim stitch with the right setting.
Tips to Keep in Mind
When sewing a blind hem, it is important to be aware of some of the tips professional tailors know. First, make sure that there is no gathering or puckering of fabric at the back of the stitching line. If this happens, adjust the stitch length. Take regular pauses to make sure the edges line up correctly. Gently press the fabrics together. Finally, check the work every few steps to ensure the accuracy of stitching.
When finished, carefully remove the fabrics from the sewing machine. A blind hem may take a bit of practice before it looks perfect. However, with a few attempts, it is possible to create a beautiful, neat hem with a sewing machine.
Practical Advice on Sewing Machine Troubleshooting
One of the most common issues that arise when sewing with a sewing machine is thread bunching. This issue is most often caused when the tension on the thread is incorrect. The user usually adjusts the tension by moving a knob located near the spool of thread. If the tension of the thread is too tight, the fabric won’t move. If it is too loose, the thread may bunch up as it sews, creating knots and tangles in the finished piece.
When thread bunching occurs, immediately stop the machine and check the tension. If the tension is the likely culprit, re-adjust the tension knob until the thread feeds through the machine appropriately. If the tension does not appear to be the problem, check the thread for knots or tangles. Remove the knots, and spool the thread in the direction indicated on the spool.
If these tips fail to fix the problem, it is best to consult an expert or the customer service of the machine’s manufacturer. When attempting more complex stitching processes, such as blind hemming, it is important to have the machine in top condition. Doing so will ensure smooth, accurate stitching.
Tools to Help with Perfecting Your Blind Hem
Professional tailors know that skill alone isn’t enough to get the perfect blind hem; the right tools are necessary as well. Investing in a specialized blind hem foot, or hemmer, for the sewing machine is a wise way of ensuring the hem will be evenly lined up and accurately sewn. Many of these feet come with a guide on the foot itself, making it possible to align the fabrics with precision and sew straight, even stitches.
Experts also suggest investing in an edging foot. This is an attachment that fits on top of the machine’s presser foot and guides the fabric thru accurately. An edging foot makes it easier to get accurate and evenly spaced stitches each time.
Finally, a specialized blind hem needle is useful when sewing a blind hem. This type of needle comes in a variety of sizes, which affects the needle’s length, the width of the eye, and the size of the scarf or notch. A blind hem needle is curved slightly at the back of the shaft to make the job of joining fabrics easier.
Conclusion
Following the steps outlined here will ensure that a blind hem is completed neatly and professionally. With a bit of practice and the right tools, it is often possible to create a look and feel similar to that produced by professional tailors. In other words, with the proper technique and an understanding of the basics, it is indeed possible to make a great blind hem with a sewing machine.
Alternatives to Blind Hemming
In addition to blind hemming, there are also some other techniques used to sew fabric together. For instance, Zigzag stitching is a method that involves sewing with a wide stitch and then coming around with a short stitch to form a “Z” pattern. This method is best used on knit fabrics and hems that need to be stretchy. In contrast, Overlock stitching uses a few threads together to create a tighter and more secure join. This is suitable for medium to heavyweight fabrics. It is also more durable than many of the other types of stitching.
The Bias Bind seam is another technique used to join fabrics. It is often used to make quilts, as it allows for flexibility and movement. This method involves cutting the fabric on a diagonal and using it to bind the edges of the two overlapping fabrics together. The binding can be done with either a machine or a hand stitching needle.
Finally, French seams are also a popular method of joining fabrics. This technique is easy to do and results in a very neat and professional-looking seam. To do it, the fabrics are sewn inside out and then flipped out, so the raw edges of the fabric are hidden. This technique is ideal for light to medium fabric, such as cotton or silk.
Resources for Sewing
Sewing can be both a fun and rewarding hobby. However, it is important to understand the basics of the craft before beginning any project. There is a wealth of information available both in bookstores and online. It is a good idea to read up on the various techniques and tips before getting started.
In addition to online tutorials, many libraries have books on the basics of sewing, which can be checked out for free. Furthermore, local fabric stores often have classes and workshops teaching sewing skills, as well as other techniques such as quilting and embroidery. Chatting with friends who sew or another knowledgeable person is also a great way to get advice and tips, as well as connect with the larger sewing community.
By taking the time to educate oneself, it is possible to create beautiful, handmade pieces with a sewing machine. With practice and a bit of patience, a beautiful blind hem is easily achievable.
