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In this Article:Determining How Wide the Hem Should BeFolding the HemSewing the HemCommunity Q&A
Hems are primarily used to hide the raw edges of your material, but you may also hem a garment to shorten it. The width of the hem will make a difference in your hem’s appearance.
You can also alter the appearance with the type of thread and stitch you choose to secure the hem.- 1 Check your pattern for any special instructions. If you are following a sewing pattern, then it should include detailed instructions about how to hem your finished item. The instructions should also include guidelines for how wide the hem will need to be and how to achieve this result. If you are not using a pattern, then you might look into common hem widths for the type of project you are working on.[1]
- For example, curtains usually have a 2 in (5.1 cm) wide hem, while sleeves may only have a hem that is 0.5 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm) wide, and napkins may have hems that are small as 0.25 in (0.64 cm) wide.[2]
- 2 Find out how much fabric you will need before you cut and sew. If you are using a pattern, then the amount of fabric you need to create the hem should already be included. If you are making a project without a pattern, then add the hem allowance before you cut the fabric.
- For example, if you are making napkins and you want them to have a 0.25 in (0.64 cm) double-folded hem on all 4 sides, then add 1 in (2.5 cm) to the fabric dimensions. This would mean that to make a 16 by 16 in (41 by 41 cm) napkin, you would need to cut a piece of fabric that is 17 by 17 in (43 by 43 cm).
- 3 Try on garments before creating the hem. If you want a perfect fit on garments you are sewing for yourself or for a friend, try the garment on and check the positioning of the hem before you sew it. Even if you are following a pattern, you may find that you want the hem a little higher or lower than the pattern indicates….
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