Edging & Hemming

Rolled Hem

• A rolled hem provides a quick edging choice that only requires minimal skill and a basic sewing machine. The roll catches the raw edge of the fabric inside the hem so it isn't visible, making this a suitable hem for drapes and other decorator fabrics where both sides of the fabric are visible. Begin by folding the fabric edge up 1/2 an inch. Fold it a second time so the raw fabric edge is caught inside the rolled hem. Stitch near the edge of the fold to secure the hem. Top stitch along the bottom of the fold to hold the hem flat. Use a matching thread to hide the stitches or a contrasting thread to add a decorative touch.

Satin Edge Hem

• Satin edge hems require more patience than a rolled hem, but the finished hem is attractive from both sides of the fabric. The satin stitching adds a decorative touch suitable for tablecloths, especially if you use a contrasting thread color. Fold up the bottom inch of fabric. Press the fold to ensure it remains crisp and straight. Zig-zag stitch along the bottom of the fold, keeping the stitches as close to the edge of the fabric as possible. Once stitched, cut off the raw fabric edge near the stitches.

Serged Hem

• Sergers provide the quickest way to finish fabric edges since the serger works along the raw edge of fabric. Fold the fabric edge up 1/2 an inch and press the fold in place with a hot iron. Serge with a wide stitch over the raw edge of the fabric. The stitches cover the raw edge and secure the hem. You can replicate a serger stitch with a tight zig-zag stitch on a regular sewing machine. Serged edges are common on curtain bottoms, but are suitable for most home fabrics.

Decorative Edging

• Bias tape, lace and ribbon provides a decorative edge option. The use of decorative edging allows you to hem fabric that would otherwise be too short if you attempted a folded hem. Bias tape consists of a piece of fabric folded into thirds with the raw edges touching in the middle. Position the fabric edge so it covers half the bias tape and stitch the tape in place. Fold the bias tape over to the front of the fabric and press the fold. Top stitch over the bias tape, trapping the raw fabric edge between the tape layers. Alternatively, pin a piece of lace or fabric ribbon onto each side of the raw fabric edge and stitch it in place.