Hemming is an essential part of sewing and can be a challenging task for new sewers. Making a blind hem stitch on a sewing machine requires careful attention to detail, but with a few steps and practice, anyone can master it.
Before attempting to blind hem, the fabric needs to be carefully measured and cut to size. It is important to leave an extra allowance on the hem, as this allows for more fabric to be worked with during the process. The finished hem should be no more than ½ an inch thick. The end of the fabric should then be folded upwards approximately ¼ of an inch. This will create an inner fold that will later be stitched.
Once the fabric is prepared, the machine should be adjusted to make a blind hem stitch. This stitch is composed of two parts: a straight stitch and a zigzag stitch. To get the stitch length and width right, it is essential to consult the sewing machine manual which will provide all the necessary instructions.
When the adjustment is finished, the fabric has to be placed under the machine’s foot. The edge of the fabric should lie under the presser foot and the center of the fold should be placed at the left side of the foot. The needle should then be lowered into the fold of the fabric and the presser foot should be raised.
The fabric should then be pulled slightly to the right and the presser foot should be lowered again. The machine should be operated to form a zigzag stitch. Once the zigzag is finished, the fabric should be pulled slightly to the left again and the presser foot should be lowered and the machine operated to form a straight stitch.
At this point, the blind hem is complete and the bobbin should be checked to ensure that the fabric is secure. The hem is then ready to be cut off and steamed to remove any wrinkles.
Practice Makes Perfect
Creating a blind hem stitch is not a difficult task but it requires precise attention to detail and practice. It is important to take things slowly and to use the same tension and stitch length as described in the manual. Sewers will also benefit from experimenting with different fabrics and threads to find the right combination that works for them.
It is also recommended to use a tailor’s point presser foot for sewing the blind hems. This tool can be found in many stores and it helps to align the fabric better for a neater finish.
Frayed Fabrics and Overgrown Threads
When sewing a blind hem it is important to be aware of the fabric’s thickness. Thicker fabrics tend to fray more which can make it difficult to sew a blind hem accurately. To prevent fraying it is important to use fray stopper or other products specifically designed to help with fabric control.
Finally, when sewing a blind hem it is essential to keep the thread short. Overgrown threads can cause fabric puckering and affect the finished results. It is therefore essential to keep the thread length short and to occasionally draw out excess thread with a seam ripper.
Time Saving Tips
To save time and effort, it is important to prepare the fabric before sewing the hem. This includes measuring and cutting the fabric accurately and rechecking the measurements.
It is also important to make sure that the fabric is securely pinned and that the thread changes are made neat and clean. When sewing the seam it is important to turn the fabric frequently and to constantly check the tension.
Tips for Troubleshooting
If the stitches are visible, it is important to adjust the thread tension on the sewing machine. Minor puckering can also be fixed using steam or with some fabric starch.
If the stitches are not straight, it is usually because the fabric is not properly aligned. To prevent this issue it is important to use a tailor’s point presser foot.
Recommended Tools
Creating a blind hem stitch requires some basic tools such as a pair of fabric scissors, pins, a measuring tape, and a seam ripper. Many sewers also prefer to use a tailor’s point presser foot for a neater finish.
Finally, for best results it is important to use a good quality thread and strong needles that are specifically designed for the fabric being used.
Get Creative
Blind hem stitching can be used to create a variety of unique looks. From adding decorative stitching to creating a tailored finish, sewers can use the blind hem stitch to spruce up any garment.
A blind hem can also be used to create a scalloped or curved edge, adding an interesting aesthetic to a garment. Expanding beyond the basics, sewers can use a blind hem stitch to add intricate details to garments and make them unique.
Advanced Techniques
Advanced sewers may want to experiment with further customization of the blind hem stitch. This could include using different stitch lengths, introducing decorative stitching, and adding multiple folds. This can create a unique and individualized look that is sure to impress.
Sewers can also use a blind hem stitch to join two pieces of fabric together. This process is more complex and requires patience, but with the right tools and technique the results can be stunning.
Embellishments
Sewers can also add embellishments such as beads, sequins, and embroidery to a blind hem stitch. This can create a unique and intricate look that is sure to turn heads. It is worth keeping in mind, however, that embellishments can add bulk to the fabric and should be used sparingly.
When working with embellishments it is important to use the right tools, such as specialized needles and threads, to ensure that the stitches are strong and secure. Embellishments can also be added after the blind hem is finished, which can be easier and more effective.
