Tools Needed
Most people think that it is impossible to hem a shirt without a sewing machine. That is not true; There are ways to complete the task without a machine. The first step in hemming a shirt requires the right tools.
The tool you will need is scissors and an adhesive tape. Be sure to get scissors that are sharp and can easily cut through fabric. An adhesive tape such as a double-sided hemming tape should also be purchased for the project. This will help keep the hem in place without leaving a sticky residue.
Removing Excess Fabric
Once the tools have been gathered, the next step is to begin removing any excess fabric from the bottom of the shirt. If the shirt is too long, measure the hem’s desired length and mark the fabric with a fabric pen or chalk. Then, carefully snip off the excess fabric along the markings.
Before removing the fabric, be sure to double-check the measurements. If you cut too much, you may have to start the entire process over again.
Folding the Hem
The process of creating a hem requires folding the fabric twice. Start by folding the fabric up 1 inch and then iron the fold, so it stays in place. Once the first fold is complete, fold the fabric up one more time and iron it. The last fold should be the desired length of the hem.
Securing the Hem with Double-Sided Tape
Now it is time to secure the hem with double-sided tape. Make sure you are using double-sided tape that adheres to both fabric and paper. Start by cutting the tape into 1 inch strips. Place the tape on the edge of the folded hem, underneath the fabric.
Make sure the tape covers the entire edge of the folded fabric. Once it is in place, iron the tape to secure it in place. The tape will hold the hem in place when it comes to washing and wearing the shirt.
Finishing the Hem Without Sewing
Now it is time to finish the hem without sewing. You can use hemming tape to secure the two layers of fabric together. Start by applying the tape along the top edge of the fabric. The tape should cover the entire edge of the fabric. Once the tape is in place, press the fabric together with an iron.
The heat from the iron will activate the adhesive on the tape and bond the two layers of fabric together. This will create a secure and professional-looking hem without any visible stitches or bits of glass.
Pressing the Hem
The last step in hemming a shirt without a sewing machine is pressing. Start by ironing the hem with steam, which will help to set the fabric and adhere the hem in place. Use an iron that is suitable for pressing delicate fabrics so that you do not scorch or destroy the fabric.
Once ironed, the shirt is ready to be worn. Be sure to refer to the care instructions that come with the shirt so that you know what kind of fabric you are working with.
How to Adjust Hems Asynchronously
Adjusting the hem of a shirt asynchronously is possible. To do so, turn the shirt inside out, and then lift the fabric of the hem up until it achieves a desired length. Next, fold the fabric over at the new length, pressing firmly against the crease.
Once the hem is folded up again, run a line of adhesive tape along the top edge of the fabric. Iron the tape to set it in place. Make sure to use a double-sided adhesive designed to work with delicate fabrics, such as chiffon or light-weight cotton.
Maintaining the Hem
Maintaining the hem of a shirt without a sewing machine is also important. As the shirt is washed, make sure to check the hem periodically to ensure it is still firmly in place. If necessary, run a line of double-sided tape along the top of the hem before ironing, to ensure it stays in place after the wash.
Be sure to consider the fabric of the shirt before cleaning it. If the fabric is delicate, avoid washing the shirt in a washing machine. Hand washing is the best option for delicate fabrics. Also, be sure to read and follow the instructions on the care label before cleaning.
Alternatives to Sewing Machines
There are alternatives to traditional sewing machines when it comes to hemming a shirt. One popular alternative is fabric bonding, which is the process of sewing two pieces of fabric together using heat, pressure, and special adhesives. The process is relatively quick and easy and requires no additional knowledge of sewing or threading.
Many fabric stores sell fabric bonding tape that is perfect for hemming a shirt without a sewing machine. The tape can be affixed to the hem of the shirt and then used to fuse two fabric layers together. This method is great for those who do not have access to a sewing machine or do not have the time to learn to use one.
The Benefits of Hemming without a Sewing Machine
Hemming without a sewing machine has several benefits. Firstly, it is a cheaper and quicker alternative. Hemming with a sewing machine usually requires the purchase of a machine and an understanding of how to use it. By using an adhesive like tape, one can quickly and easily hem a shirt without expensive equipment or knowledge of sewing.
Secondly, hemming without a machine is also a great way to conserve energy. Sewing machines usually require a large amount of electricity and can be expensive to use. By not using a machine, one can reduce the amount of electricity used and save the environment. Additionally, the lack of sewing skills required makes it an easy task for anyone to do quickly.
Finally, hemming without a machine is also more sustainable. Adhesive tapes are recyclable, while sewing machines are not. Adhesive tapes also have minimal environmental impact and can be reused multiple times. This makes hemming with an adhesive tape a more sustainable option.
