My grandma taught me hemming stitches just as she did with many other stitches. I waited patiently and with a warm smile. After learning, I was excited to talk about it in my class.
One day, a student, a total newbie to sewing, raised her hand and asked, “What is a hemming stitch?”
I smiled, grabbed a fabric, and sat beside her.
A hemming stitch is like pulling a thread near the folded hem from the fabric. It is a way to hug the fabric edges together so they don’t drift apart.
She tilted her head, still looking unsure. I could tell my words hadn’t quite clicked. So, I decided to take a different approach.
Main facts:
- A hem stitch is a stitch to secure the fabric raw edge.
- Hemstitch is used for neat finish, decoration, and invisible hem.
- The stitch length varies depending on the fabric type.
Table of Contents
What Is A Hemming Stitch?
A hemming stitch is a thread wrapping around the fabric edge diagonally to secure the fabric edge.
It involves pulling out a few threads from the fabric near the hem and using stitches to group the remaining threads into pretty patterns.
This secures the hem and creates a delicate, lacy effect. You’ll often see it on table linens, handkerchiefs, or vintage clothing. Some designs even use multiple rows of this stitching for extra detail.
The fun part is that there are different types of hemming stitches, too. Each of the types used is different things. For intense,
- Knotted Hemming Stitch
- Close Hemming Stitch
- Vertical Hemming Stitch
- Faced Hem
- Single Fold Hem
- Bias Tape Hem
So yeah those are the most famous types of hemming stitches by hand. But there are a few machine types of hemming stitches, too. For example,
- Awning Rope
- A Curved Turned Hem
- Faced Hem
- Taped Edge
Types of hemming stitches with pictures
Above i said some basic Hemming Stitches By Hand. but there are some types. But that’s another matter to discuss for now see the pictures of all the types.
What Are The Uses Of Hemming Stitches?
Trust me! Hemming stitches are little lifesavers in sewing! They help give the fabric a clean, finished look while keeping the edges from fraying. They help clothes, curtains, and linens last longer and look more polished.
Some stitches stay hidden for a seamless finish, while others create beautiful decorative details. Different forms of hem stitches serve different purposes. But I mostly use this stitch for,
- Neat and tidy edges – No more frayed or messy fabric. Perfect for professional finish.
- Invisible hems – Keeps stitches out of sight on dresses, pants, and curtains. Slipping hemming stitches are the best example of this.
- Decorative details – It adds a delicate, lacy touch to linens like running stitch.
- Stronger seams – Helps lightweight fabrics hold up over time.
Hemming stitches do more than just hold the fabric together. They add strength, beauty, and a polished touch. Once you use them, they’ll quickly become one of your favorite sewing tricks.
Hemming Stitch Picture
I knew all the descriptions wouldn’t be enough for her. So I show her some of my hem stitch work. rather than giving her a hem stitch diagram.
What Stitch Length Should I Use For Hemming?
I can see all those talks got her a lot about this stitch. So she asks for the perfect length of hem stitch to start stitching.
The perfect length is a must for any Types of hems on dresses.
I feel really happy, so I answer happily,
Well, I normally use a stitch length of 2.5 to 3 millimetres for most of the hemming stitch. It offers good stability while staying subtle. But yes, the length varies depending on your fabric type. Here is how,
- For lightweight fabrics (like chiffon or silk) – Use a shorter stitch length (2.0–2.5mm) to keep the hem secure and prevent puckering.
- For medium-weight fabrics (like cotton or linen) – A standard stitch length (2.5–3.0mm) works best for a strong, neat hem.
- For heavy fabrics (like denim or wool) – A longer stitch length (3.0–4.0mm) allows the stitches to hold without making the fabric too stiff.
- For blind stitch hems or hand-sewn hems – Keep stitches small and discreet to blend into the fabric.
So yes, hemstitches work everywhere if you know how to use them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is A Hemming Stitch On A Sewing Machine?
A hemming stitch on a sewing machine is a stitch used to create a clean, finished edge on fabric. It secures the hem while preventing fraying, making garments and home textiles more durable and polished.
Can I Hem Stretchy Fabrics With A Sewing Machine?
Yes! Use a zigzag stitch or a stretch stitch (lightning bolt stitch) to maintain flexibility and prevent breakage when the fabric stretches.
Outro
After answering her what is a hemming stitch I ask her if she is clear or not. She smiled and said, ‘i’m crystal clear right now. Now i thing wants to learn how to do it 😁’I hope you are clear, too. If you have any questions, feel free to contact sewing inspo.
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