Learning how to hem a dress is a great way to extend the life of clothing and save money. Hemming a dress can be done quickly and easily with the use of a sewing machine. The following steps will tell you how.
Step One: Gather Materials
The materials necessary to hem a dress are usually easy to come by. You will need a measuring tape, a pair of scissors, thread, and a sewing machine. You will also need a sharpened needle that is appropriate for the fabric you are using. Gather all of these materials before starting.
Step Two: Measure and Cut
Once all of the materials have been gathered, you will need to measure the fabric of the dress. Begin by measuring from the hem to the desired length. Then, add a few additional inches to account for the potential stretching of the fabric. Once the measuring is complete, use the scissors to cut the fabric to the desired length.
Step Three: Set Up The Sewing Machine
The sewing machine must be set up properly in order for the hem to be successful. Start by threading the machine with the desired color of thread. Once the machine is properly threaded, adjust the tension and stitch length. A tension of four and a stitch length of 2.5-3.0 should be sufficient. Once the machine is set up, it is time to begin sewing.
Step Four: Sew The Hem
After the machine is set up properly, it is time to begin sewing the hem. Begin by folding the fabric so that the right side of the fabric is facing inwards. Use clips or pins to keep the fabric in place while sewing. Start by positioning the fabric underneath the presser foot and slowly lower the presser foot. Once the foot is lowered, press down on the foot pedal and begin sewing slowly. After the first few stitches are complete, slowly increase the speed until the desired length of the hem is achieved. When the hem is complete, remove the fabric from the machine.
Step Five: Press and Finish
After the hem is complete, it is important to press the fabric and make sure that everything is even. If the fabric needs to be pressed, an iron set to a medium heat setting should be sufficient. Once the fabric has been pressed, the hem is complete.
Additional Considerations
When hemming a dress, it is important to remember that the fabric may shrink or stretch over time. This means that it is important to measure the fabric multiple times and to ensure that the hem is long enough. Additionally, be sure to account for the fabric thickness when setting the stitch length on the machine. A stitch length of 2.5-3.0 should be sufficient for most fabrics.
Identifying the Right Dress Fabric
When hemming a dress, it is important to consider the fabric of the dress. Be sure to select a sturdy fabric that is not prone to stretching or tearing. Cotton and linen are both good options for dresses as they are sturdy and will stand up to regular wear. Avoid fabrics that are thin or delicate as they may not hold up to the stresses of regular wear.
Using a Tailor
If you do not feel comfortable hemming a dress yourself, you may want to consider using a tailor. Tailors are experienced professionals who can hem a dress quickly and easily. They will be able to advise you on the best fabric for the job, and will be able to provide you with a perfect hem within a short period of time.
Accommodating Different Styles and Silhouettes
Different dress styles and silhouettes may require different hemming techniques. For instance, a flared dress may require a more gradual hem than a straight dress. In addition, dresses with pleats or ruffles may require additional fabric in order to create a seamless hem. Be sure to consider the style of the dress before you begin hemming.
Seams and Trimming
When hemming a dress, it is important to consider the seams and the trimming. For example, a dress with a pleated skirt may require a different hem than a dress with a straight skirt. Additionally, dresses with a zipper or other closures may require additional seams or trimming in order to create a finished look. Consider these elements when hemming a dress.
Finishing Touches
Once the hem is complete, be sure to add the finishing touches. This may include thread that is the same color as the dress, or adding a delicate decorative stitch. Adding these finishing touches can make the dress look more professional and can increase the lifespan of the fabric.
