How to Hem Clothing by Hand

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Fit the article first.

   It is essential to have the person try on the article of clothing for a fitting to allow you to pin it to the correct length.
2. 2

   Step 2: Place ball or flat-headed stick-pins around the hem.

   Place them about 3 inches (7.5 cm) apart all the way around the material.
   
   Turn it inward as you put in the pins. , Take the item off carefully to avoid scraping pins on your model. , Make sure that the thread matches the color of the material as closely as possible. , This provides the strength needed for a hem; the hem takes a lot of punishment from daily wear. (To double the thread, put it through the needle and bring both ends together, tie them in a knot.) , If the clothing is extremely long, measure and cut some of the excess material off, but leave about 2 inches (5 cm).
   
   Finish the raw edge of the fabric so that it does not fray.
   
   If you want to let the material out later, simply fold it over a few times, making an edge about two or three inches thick. , Take up as little fabric as possible with the needle on each stitch.
   
   Try to place stitches about 1/2 inch (1.5 cm) apart.
   
   You can sew by hand or with a sewing machine, depending on which way suits you most.
3. 3

   Step 3: Remove the article of clothing.

4. 4

   Step 4: Thread a needle with thread.

5. 5

   Step 5: Double and knot the thread.

6. 6

   Step 6: Turn the article of clothing inside out.

7. 7

   Step 7: Sew around the pinned material.

Detailed Guide

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