Rolled Hem Tips

I love a good rolled hem. It’s tiny and cute. It’s great to use on finer fabrics like silk, satin and cotton lawn.

I have 3 different rolled hem feet for my sewing machine. They are for 2, 4, and 6 millimeter hems. I use the most narrow one for the finest fabrics and the widest one generally for heavier cottons.

Some people like to press the edge of their fabric to the wrong side about 1/8″ or 1/4″ depending on the size of the foot but I rarely press before I do the hem. If the fabric is a bit unstable or is cut on the bias it is a good idea t stay stitch the edge of the fabric before you do the hemming because it can be pulled out of shape and get a ripple effect.

I begin by placing my fabric under the foot and beginning to sew a straight stitch as I roll the fabric into the foot.

As I sew I hold the edge of the fabric folded in so that the foot can easily do its work.

At each seam it is a good idea to clip the seam allowance at an angle so that the fabric can fit through the opening of the foot.

Make sure to go slow here and try not to pull or stretch the fabric. Also be careful when the seam allowance runs up to the foot that it goes under the foot and the foot doesn’t go under the edge and fold it in the opposite direction.

I forgot to take a picture but when you get around to the beginning roll the hem by hand to match the end with the beginning.