How to Sew a Hem: The Best Techniques for Any Project

Hemming. It sounds simple, right? Just one final step before you can proudly wear your handmade creation. But if you’ve ever struggled with puckered fabric, skipped stitches, or a hem that just won’t sit flat, you know it’s anything but easy.

I learned this the hard way years ago when I made a dress from the most beautiful rayon knit. The fit was perfect. The seams were flawless. Then I got to the hem. The twin needle refused to cooperate, the thread kept breaking, and no matter what I did, the fabric stretched and puckered. After hours of frustration, I gave up, cut the dress shorter, and turned it into a blouse.

Since then, I’ve learned that hemming is both a science and an art. There isn’t just one way to do it – there are many, depending on the fabric, the look you want, and the tools you have. This roundup brings together some of my best tutorials to help you master different hemming techniques. Whether you’re working with denim, chiffon, knits, or delicate silk fabrics, there’s a method that will work for you.

Here’s what you’ll find in this guide:

• How to sew a narrow hem using Ban Roll tape
• Using a blind hem foot to make an invisible hem
• Creating a rolled hem with a serger for a professional finish
• The ups and downs of sewing with a rolled hem foot
• Hemming jeans while keeping the original hem intact
• The raw hem trend and how to get the look
• Hemming on a coverstitch machine
• Foolproof techniques for hemming chiffon and sheer fabrics
• A guide to different types of hems and when to use them
• Special tips for hemming knit fabric
• How to use hem tape for a quick, no-sew solution
• An easy method to hem pants without sewing
• Hemming curtains for a polished, custom look
• Step-by-step instructions for hemming a dress with a sewing machine

No more frustration. No more ruined projects. Just clean, beautiful hems that make your garments look polished and professional.

#1. The Easiest Way to Sew a Narrow Hem: Ban Roll Tape Hack

Hemming chiffon and other lightweight fabrics can be tricky, especially when they stretch or fray. Instead of using a rolled hem foot, which can be frustrating especially at corners and seams, I use Ban Roll tape for a clean, even finish. It’s a simple technique that works well, even on delicate fabrics.

#2. Mastering the Blind Hem Foot: How to Sew a Hidden Hem by Sewing Machine

Sewing an invisible hem with a regular sewing machine is possible using a blind hem foot, which creates tiny stitches that blend into the fabric. This tutorial will show you how to use it effectively for a clean, subtle finish. It takes some practice, so it’s best to test on scrap fabric first.

#3. How to Sew a Rolled Hem with a Serger: A Step-by-Step Guide

A rolled hem gives fabric a clean, narrow edge, and a serger makes the process quicker by trimming and stitching at the same time. This tutorial explains how to adjust the settings, select the right thread, and get an even finish.

#4. Rolled Hem Foot: A Hilarious Journey Through Tiny Hems and Big Frustrations

A rolled hem foot promises perfectly even hems, but the reality isn’t always so simple. This tutorial takes you through the ups and downs of using this tricky little attachment—expect some frustration, a few laughs, and maybe a newfound appreciation for your regular presser foot. If you’ve ever wrestled with slippery fabric and stubborn hems, you’re not alone.

#5. How to Hem Jeans at Home: A Beginner-Friendly Tutorial

Hemming jeans at home is a practical way to get the right length without altering their overall look. This guide covers two common methods—the double-folded hem and the original hem—so you can choose what works best for your jeans and style.

#6. The Raw Hem Trend: A Guide to This Effortlessly Stylish Look

Raw hems are a simple yet stylish way to add an unfinished touch to your clothing. In this guide, you’ll find an overview of different raw hem styles, the materials best suited for them, and the tools needed to create your own. You’ll also find examples of raw hems in various garments and tips for achieving the perfect unfinished look.

#7. The Best Way to Hem Jeans While Keeping the Original Hem

Hemming jeans while keeping the original hem is a great way to maintain their natural look and stitching. This method preserves the original design while achieving the perfect length for a professional finish. In this guide, you’ll learn how to shorten your jeans without altering their original style.

#8. How to Hem on a Coverstitch Machine Step-by-step Tutorial

Hemming with a coverstitch machine creates a clean, professional finish, especially on knit fabrics. This stitch allows the hem to stretch without breaking while enclosing the raw edge to prevent fraying. In this tutorial, you’ll learn the key techniques for achieving smooth, durable hems with a coverstitch machine.

#9. How to Hem Chiffon and Sheer Fabrics: A Step-by-Step Guide

Hemming chiffon can be tricky, as the fabric tends to shift and slip while sewing. This tutorial introduces an alternative method using buckram fabric to create a clean, even narrow hem without the usual frustration. It’s a simple and effective technique that provides a professional finish without the need for ban roll tape.

#10. Types of Hems and Their Uses: A Complete Guide

Hemming is a simple but essential sewing technique that helps finish raw fabric edges and adjust garment length. From basic double-fold hems to nearly invisible blind hems, different methods suit different fabrics and styles. This tutorial covers various hemming techniques so you can achieve the right finish for any project.

#11. The Best Methods for Hemming Knit Fabric

Knits behave differently from woven fabrics, which means hemming them requires a different approach. This guide walks through the best methods for hemming knits while avoiding puckering and stretching. Even though knits don’t fray, a finished hem enhances the overall look of a garment.

#12. Everything You Need to Know About Hem Tape

Hem tape is a useful tool for quick hems and repairs, especially when you need a no-sew solution. It can be a practical alternative when sewing isn’t an option or when you need a temporary hold before stitching. This guide covers how to use hem tape effectively, answers common questions, and provides practical tips for the best results.

#13. How to Hem Pants Without Sewing: A Simple New Method

Hemming pants without a needle and thread is possible with the right tape. This guide covers how to use hemming tape effectively, from selecting the right type to applying it properly for a secure hold. It also includes tips on fabric compatibility and avoiding common mistakes.

#14. How to Hem Curtains: A Complete Guide

Hemming curtains involves more than just folding and stitching, it requires attention to detail for a neat and even finish. This tutorial covers different hemming methods, common mistakes to avoid, and tips for achieving a clean finish, whether you sew or use a no-sew method.

#15. How to Hem a Dress Using a Sewing Machine

Hemming a dress with a sewing machine is a quick and effective way to give it a clean, professional finish. It helps prevent fraying and ensures the dress maintains its shape over time. This tutorial explores different hemming techniques so you can choose the best method for your fabric and project.

Did you find this tutorial helpful? If so, save this pin (see below) on your sewing board so you can come to this tutorial later when you are ready to hem, and follow me on Pinterest for more tips, tutorials, and inspiration!