Master the Art of Hemming Knit Dresses with These Foolproof Tips

AvatarByJill Nammar

As the weather begins to warm up, many of us are trading in our winter sweaters for lighter, breezier garments. But what do you do when your favorite knit dress is just a little too long for the upcoming season? Fear not, because in this article we will be discussing the ins and outs of hemming a knit dress. Whether you’re a novice seamstress or a DIY expert, mastering this skill will allow you to tailor all of your knit dresses to perfection. So grab your sewing kit and get ready to learn how to hem a knit dress in no time!

The Importance of Proper Hemming for Knit Dresses

When it comes to sewing or altering a knit dress, hemming is a crucial step that should not be overlooked. A hem is simply the finished edge of a garment that prevents it from fraying or unraveling. While the process of hemming may seem simple, it requires precision and attention to detail in order to achieve a professional and polished look.

One of the main reasons why hemming is important for knit dresses is because knitted fabrics have a tendency to stretch and move, unlike woven fabrics. This means that if the hem is not done correctly, it can easily become distorted and lose its shape. A poorly done hem can also cause the bottom of the dress to become uneven or hang at an awkward length.

Furthermore, properly hemmed knit dresses not only look better but they also provide more comfort for the wearer. A neat and secure hem ensures that the dress lays smoothly against the body without any unexpected bunching or sagging in certain areas. This prevents any discomfort or irritation that may occur with poorly executed hems.

In addition, a well-done hem can also prolong the lifespan of your knit dress. As mentioned earlier, knit fabrics are more delicate and prone to unraveling compared to woven fabrics. By securing the edges with a proper hem, you are preventing any potential damage and ensuring that your dress stays intact even after multiple wears and washes.

Tools and Materials Needed for Hemming

Before diving into the actual process of hemming a knit dress, it’s essential to gather all the necessary tools and materials first. Here are some items you will need:

1. Scissors – These will be used to cut excess fabric or threads.

2. Sewing machine – While hand sewing is an option, using a sewing machine will result in a more professional-looking finish.

3. Measuring tape or ruler – These tools are crucial in ensuring that the hem is even and straight.

4. Pins – These will hold the fabric in place while you work on the hem.

5. Iron and ironing board – Ironing your dress before and after hemming is important to achieve a crisp and tidy finish.

6. Needle and thread – In case any hand sewing is needed for small details.

7. Fabric marker or chalk – These can be used to mark the length of the hem on the fabric.

8. Hem gauge or seam allowance ruler – This tool helps in measuring and marking a consistent hem width all around the dress.

The Process of Hemming a Knit Dress

1. Start by determining the desired length of your dress. It’s best to try it on first and make any adjustments if needed. Once you have decided on the length, add an extra inch for seam allowance.
2. Lay your dress flat on a table or ironing board with the wrong side facing up.
3. Using your measuring tape or ruler, mark the desired length of your dress all around with a fabric marker or chalk.
4. Next, fold up the raw edge of the hem by half an inch and press it with an iron.
5. Then, fold it up again by half an inch, this time enclosing the raw edge within the fold. Press it with an iron to create a neat crease.
6. To secure the folded edge in place, pin it along all sides of your dress using straight pins.
7. Once everything is pinned, use your sewing machine to stitch along the folded edge, making sure to remove each pin as you go.
8. If any hand sewing is needed for small details such as corners or openings, use a needle and thread to secure them in place.
9. Finally, give your dress one last press with an iron to achieve a professional-looking finish.

Tips for Hemming Knit Dresses

– Always use a ballpoint or stretch needle when sewing on knit fabrics. Regular needles can cause the fabric to pucker or create holes.
– Test your stitch on a scrap piece of fabric before sewing the actual hem to ensure that it is not too tight or loose.
– If you have a serger, use it to overlock the raw edge of the hem before folding and stitching. This will prevent any fraying and give a cleaner finish.
– To prevent the hem from becoming distorted while sewing, gently stretch the fabric from both ends as you sew.
– For delicate or lightweight knit fabrics, using a zigzag stitch instead of a straight stitch can prevent any unwanted puckering.

Hemming knit dresses may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and technique, it can easily be achieved. Whether you are shortening or adjusting the length of your dress, proper hemming is essential for achieving a professional and polished look. Remember to take your time and be patient with each step for best results. With these tips and guidelines, you’ll be able to confidently hem any knit dress with ease.

Why Hemming a Knit Dress is Important

Hemming a knit dress is an essential step in the sewing process that adds both functionality and aesthetic appeal to your garment. Hemming involves adding a finished edge to the bottom of the dress, which not only prevents it from unraveling but also gives it a polished look. Without hemming, your knit dress may look unfinished and unprofessional.

Knit fabrics are known for their stretchability and flexibility, making them popular for clothing items like dresses. However, this also means that they can easily become misshapen or unravel at the edges if not hemmed properly. A proper hem will help maintain the shape of your dress and prevent it from losing its structure and becoming saggy or baggy.

Moreover, hemming also adds durability to your knit dress. The constant pulling and stretching of your garment while wearing it can put stress on the seams over time. Hemming helps to reinforce these areas and prevent them from tearing or coming apart.

Lastly, hemming a knit dress can significantly enhance its overall appearance. A well-finished edge adds a professional touch to your garment, giving it a clean and neat look. It also helps to hide any imperfections in the fabric or stitching, making your dress appear more polished.

Step-by-Step Guide on How To Hem a Knit Dress

Hemming a knit dress may seem like a daunting task, especially for beginners. However, with some basic sewing skills and following these simple steps, you can easily achieve a professional-looking hem.

Step 1: Prepare Your Dress
Start by thoroughly pressing your dress to smooth out any wrinkles or creases. This will make sure that you have an even edge to work with when hemming.

Step 2: Determine The Length
Decide on the desired length of your knit dress before starting to hem. You can do this by trying on the dress and marking the desired length with pins or fabric chalk. Make sure to stand up straight while marking to get an accurate length.

Step 3: Sew a Straight Stitch
Using a sewing machine, stitch a straight line around the bottom edge of your dress at the desired hemline. Make sure to leave about ½ inch seam allowance. If you don’t have access to a sewing machine, you can also hand-stitch using a straight stitch.

Step 4: Trim The Excess Fabric
After stitching, trim off any excess fabric beyond the stitch line. Make sure to leave about ¼ inch allowance for folding.

Step 5: Fold and Pin
Fold the hemline upwards towards the wrong side of the dress, using your stitch line as a guide. Use pins to secure the fold in place at regular intervals. This will prevent any shifting of fabric while sewing.

Step 6: Stitch The Hem
Using either a sewing machine or hand-stitching, sew along the edge of your folded hemline, making sure to catch both layers of fabric. Remove the pins as you go along and continue until you reach the starting point.

Step 7: Try on and Adjust
Once you have finished hemming, try on your knit dress again and make any necessary adjustments to ensure it’s the desired length. If it’s too long, simply repeat steps 3-6 until you get your desired result.

Tips for Hemming Knit Dresses

– Choose The Right Needle: When sewing on knits, it’s important to use a ballpoint needle instead of a sharp one. This type of needle is designed specifically for knit fabrics and will help prevent any snags or runs.

– Use Stretchy Thread: Consider using stretchy thread such as woolly nylon or polyester for hemming knits. These threads are specifically designed for stretchy fabrics and will prevent the stitches from breaking or popping.

– Test Your Stitch: Before sewing on your actual garment, it’s always a good idea to test your stitch on a scrap piece of fabric. This will help you determine the correct tension setting and ensure that your stitches look neat and even.

– Consider a Twin Needle: A twin needle is a great alternative to a straight stitch when hemming knits. It creates two parallel lines of stitching that resemble a coverstitch, giving your garment a professional finish.

– Don’t Pull or Stretch the Fabric: When sewing or pinning the hem, make sure not to pull or stretch the fabric. This can cause the hemline to become uneven or distorted, resulting in an unprofessional finish.

Caring For Your Hemmed Knit Dress

Proper care is essential for maintaining the look and durability of your hemmed knit dress. Here are some tips to help you care for your garment:

– Always follow the care instructions on the fabric label before washing your dress. Some knit fabrics may require delicate washing or handwashing.

– When drying, lay your dress flat instead of hanging. This will prevent any stretching at the hemline and keep it looking crisp.

– If ironing is necessary,

1. What type of hemming technique should I use for a knit dress?
The best hemming technique for a knit dress is to use a double needle or a stretch stitch on your sewing machine. This will allow the hem to stretch and move with the knit fabric.

2. Can I hand-sew a hem on a knit dress?
While it is possible to hand-sew a hem on a knit dress, it is not recommended as it may result in an uneven or bulky hem. It is best to use a sewing machine for this type of fabric.

3. Should I use interfacing while hemming a knit dress?
No, interfacing is not necessary when hemming a knit dress. In fact, using interfacing can make the hem stiff and uncomfortable to wear.

4. How do I prevent the fabric from stretching as I sew the hem?
To prevent the fabric from stretching while sewing the hem, you can use clips instead of pins to hold the fabric in place. Also, make sure to gently guide the fabric through the machine without pulling or stretching it.

5. Can I adjust the length of my knit dress by just folding over and sewing the edge?
It is not recommended to simply fold over and sew the edge of your knit dress as this may result in an uneven or puckered hemline. It is best to properly measure and mark the desired length before sewing.

6. How do I finish off the edges after hemming my knit dress?
After you have sewn your desired hem length, you can trim any excess fabric and finish off the edges with either a serger or a zig-zag stitch for added durability and preventing fraying in future washes.

In conclusion, learning how to hem a knit dress is a valuable skill that can save both time and money. By following the steps outlined in this article, you will be able to confidently hem any knit dress and achieve a clean and professional-looking finish.

Firstly, it is important to choose the right type of needle and thread for the job to ensure that the hem stays in place without damaging the delicate knit fabric. Additionally, taking precise measurements and using proper techniques such as stabilizing the fabric and using a zigzag stitch can greatly improve the overall outcome of your hem.

It is also crucial to consider any adjustments that need to be made for a seamless hem, such as cutting off excess fabric or tapering the sides for a better fit. These small details may seem insignificant, but they can make a huge difference in achieving a polished final result.

Furthermore, practicing on scrap fabric or old garments can greatly improve your skills before attempting to hem an actual dress. This will allow you to familiarize yourself with different techniques and find what works best for you.

Lastly, always remember to take your time and be patient while hemming. Rushing through the process can lead to mistakes and an unsatisfactory outcome. By following these tips and being attentive to detail, you can achieve a

Author Profile

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Jill Nammar
My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.