Hem with a Sewing Machine

Step by step

Tick each step as you go if you like; ticks stay on this device.

1. Mark and pressMark the finished length and press the hem fold, the same way as for a hand hem.
2. Fold under the raw edgeFold the raw edge under 1/4 inch toward the wrong side and press. Use a seam gauge to keep it even.
3. Fold againFold up again to your hem depth, for example 1 inch, and press. Now the raw edge is hidden inside. Pin.
4. Set the machineUse a straight stitch of medium length, about 8 to 12 stitches per inch.
5. Stitch near the inner foldWith the wrong side up, sew close to the top folded edge all the way around. For a tube like a pant leg, start at a seam.
6. Overlap and finishWhen you get back to the start, sew over the first few stitches by about 1/2 inch. Clip the threads and press.

Tips

• Many machines have a blind-hem stitch and foot. With practice it gives a nearly invisible hem. Follow your manual and test on a scrap first.
• On very flared hems, a narrower hem lies flatter.

Safe habits

• Keep your fingers away from the needle. Guide the fabric with your hands flat on either side of the foot.
• Take pins out before they reach the presser foot. Hitting a pin can break the needle.

Sources

• NMSU Guide C-314: Making Perfect Garment Hems (machine hems)
• Oklahoma 4-H: Sample Technique Cards (machine hem)
• USU Extension: Sewing Technique, Blind Machine Hem
• Oregon 4-H 320-32: Hemming Skills