Mastering the Art of a Rolled Hem: Your Ultimate Guide

Are you tired of frayed hems ruining the look of your favorite garments? Look no further, because we have the solution for you: a rolled hem. This simple sewing technique gives a clean, professional finish to any fabric, making it perfect for everything from dresses to curtains. In this article, we will teach you how to master the rolled hem and take your sewing skills to the next level. Get ready to elevate your wardrobe with this essential sewing skill – let’s dive into how to do a rolled hem.

A rolled hem is a professional technique used in sewing that creates a neat and clean finish on the edge of fabric. It is commonly used in clothing, home decor, and other sewing projects to give a polished look and prevent fraying.

Creating a rolled hem may seem intimidating at first, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be easily mastered. In this detailed guide, we will walk you through step-by-step on how to do a rolled hem like a pro.

Understanding Rolled Hems

Before we dive into the actual steps of creating a rolled hem, it is important to understand what it is and its purpose. A rolled hem is essentially created by folding the raw edge of fabric twice towards the wrong side and stitching it close to the folded edge. This makes for a narrow and neat finish without any visible raw edges.

Rolled hems are often used on lightweight fabrics such as silk, chiffon, or organza where other finishing methods might create bulk or be too visible. They are also commonly used on curved edges such as sleeves or ruffles to maintain their shape.

Gathering Supplies

To create a perfect rolled hem, you will need the following supplies:

A sewing machine with straight stitch capabilities
A sharp pair of fabric scissors
A seam ripper (in case of any mistakes)
Sewing pins or clips
Iron and ironing board
Thread in matching color to your fabric
Fabric marker or chalk for marking

The Steps: How To Do A Rolled Hem

Step 1: Prepare Your Fabric

Before starting any sewing project, it is crucial to prepare your fabric properly. Start by pre-washing your fabric according to the manufacturer’s instructions to remove any excess dye or shrinkage. Then, iron out any wrinkles to ensure a smooth and even finish.

Step 2: Mark Your Hemline

Using your marking tool, mark your desired hemline on the wrong side of the fabric. For a rolled hem, it is recommended to have a ¼ inch or ⅜ inch hem allowance. You can adjust the width according to your preference, but make sure it is consistent throughout your project.

Step 3: Iron and Fold Your Fabric

Take your fabric and fold it once towards the wrong side, aligning the raw edge with the marked line. Press this fold with your iron. Then, fold again along the marked line, this time tucking in the raw edge completely. Press this second fold as well to create a crisp crease.

Step 4: Secure With Pins or Clips

To keep your folded hem in place while sewing, use sewing pins or clips to secure it every few inches. Make sure that you do not accidentally pin through both layers of fabric as this will be difficult to remove later.

Step 5: Set Up Your Sewing Machine

Insert a new needle into your sewing machine that is appropriate for your fabric. Select a straight stitch and adjust the stitch length between 1-2mm. You can also use a rolled hem foot attachment on your machine which will help guide and fold the fabric as you sew.

Step 6: Sew Along The Folded Edge

Starting at one end of your folded edge, lower your needle into the fabric and begin sewing along the folded edge using a backstitch at each end for reinforcement. Make sure to maintain an even distance from the folded edge throughout. If using a rolled hem foot, use its guide as you sew.

Step 7: Finish The Hem

Once you have stitched all around, turn your fabric over and trim off any excess thread ends. Then, gently pull on the corner to turn the fabric right-side-out, resulting in a perfectly rolled hem. Use your iron to press the hem one final time for a polished finish.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you are still struggling with creating a rolled hem, here are some common issues and their solutions:

If you find that your fabric is slipping or puckering as you sew, try using a piece of tissue paper under your fabric to provide more stability.
If you have trouble turning the fabric corners right-side-out after sewing, try trimming the corner diagonally before turning.
If you accidentally sew through both layers of fabric while pinning or sewing, use a seam ripper to carefully remove the stitches and start again.

With practice and patience, creating a rolled hem will become second nature. It is a simple yet effective finishing technique that can elevate any sewing project. Remember to take your time and follow each step carefully for best results. Now go ahead and show off your new rolled hem skills!

A rolled hem is a neat and professional way to finish the edges of fabric. It is commonly used in clothing, home decor items, and craft projects. While it may seem intimidating at first, learning how to do a rolled hem is actually quite simple. With a few tools and techniques, you can achieve perfectly rolled hems every time. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know to master the art of the rolled hem.

What is a Rolled Hem?

A rolled hem is a type of stitch that folds over the edge of fabric twice to create a clean and narrow finishing line. Its purpose is to prevent fraying and give a polished look to the edges of garments or sewing projects. Unlike other hemming styles, the folded edges of a rolled hem are completely enclosed within the stitch, resulting in a seamless finish.

The Benefits of Using a Rolled Hem

There are many reasons why using a rolled hem may be beneficial for your sewing projects. First and foremost, it creates a professional and finished look on the edges of your fabric. This makes it perfect for creating dressy or formal pieces such as evening gowns or cocktail dresses.

Additionally, using a rolled hem can save time and effort compared to other types of hems. Since the folded edges are completely enclosed within the stitch, there is no need for additional finishing or trimming. This makes it ideal for lightweight fabrics that may be difficult to sew with.

Furthermore, rolled hems are versatile and can be used on all types of fabrics – from delicate silks to sturdy denim. They also work well with both curved and straight edges, making them suitable for various sewing projects.

Tools Required for Doing A Rolled Hem

Before diving into how to do a rolled hem, it’s essential to gather all the necessary tools first. You will need:

• Fabric – preferably lightweight and with a smooth texture
• Sewing machine with a rolled hem foot or a serger
• Sewing scissors for cutting the fabric
• Straight pins to hold the fabric in place
• Iron and ironing board
• Thread that matches your fabric
• A hand sewing needle for any finishing touches or securing loose threads

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Do A Rolled Hem

Now that you have all the tools, let’s dive into the process of creating a rolled hem step by step.

Step 1: Prepare Your Fabric

The first step is to prep your fabric. Start by cutting your desired length of fabric, then fold and press the edge of your fabric by ¼ inch towards the wrong side. This will serve as an initial fold for your rolled hem and prevent it from unraveling while sewing.

Step 2: Fold and Press Again

Once you have completed the initial fold, fold and press another ¼ inch towards the wrong side once more. This will enclose all raw edges within the hem.

Step 3: Pin It In Place

To ensure that your folded edges stay in place while sewing, use straight pins to secure them along the entire length of your edge.

Step 4: Insert Your Rolled Hem Foot

If you are using a sewing machine, now is the time to switch to a rolled hem foot. This foot aids in creating beautiful and even stitches while enclosing the raw edges within them. If you don’t have a rolled hem foot, you can also use a regular presser foot or a zig-zag stitch on your machine.

Step 5: Sew Along the Edge

With your rolled hem foot attached, begin sewing along the edge of your fabric with a straight stitch. As you sew, make sure that your raw edges are completely enclosed within the stitch.

Step 6: Optional Finishing Touches

Once you have completed sewing, you can trim any loose threads or use a hand sewing needle to secure the beginning and end of your hem.

Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Your Rolled Hem

As with any sewing technique, the key to mastering a rolled hem is practice. However, here are some tips that can help you perfect your skills:

• Use a lightweight fabric with smooth texture for easier folding and stitching.
• Use a press cloth while ironing to protect delicate fabrics from heat damage.
• Adjust the tension on your machine if necessary for a more even and tight stitch.
• Test the correct stitch length and width on a scrap piece of fabric before starting on your project.
• Go slow and steady while sewing for cleaner and more accurate stitches.
• Practice on different types of fabric to get comfortable with creating rolled hems on various materials.

Learning how to do a rolled hem can be challenging at first, but with patience and practice, it becomes second nature. The benefits of using this hemming technique make it worth the effort to master it. So go ahead and try it out on your next sewing project – you’ll be amazed at how beautifully polished your finished garment or project

Q: What is a rolled hem?

A: A rolled hem is a type of sewing technique used to create a narrow, neat edge on fabric.

Q: What is the purpose of doing a rolled hem?

A: A rolled hem is commonly used to finish edges on garments such as skirts, sleeves, or handkerchiefs. It creates a polished and professional look.

Q: What equipment do I need to do a rolled hem?

A: To do a rolled hem, you will need a sewing machine, thread, fabric, scissors, and pins. You may also want to have a pressing tool and measuring tape handy for precision.

Q: How do I prepare my fabric for a rolled hem?

A: Start by washing and drying your fabric according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Then, iron out any wrinkles or creases before cutting it into the desired shape for your project.

Q: How do I sew a perfect rolled hem?

A: First, fold over the edge of your fabric twice to create a narrow double-folded hem. Then, run the folded edge through your sewing machine using an appropriate stitch length and tension settings. Finally, carefully press the hem with an iron to set it in place.

Q: Can I use a serger machine to do a rolled hem?

A: Yes, some modern serger machines have special stitches specifically designed for creating rolled hems. Refer to your machine’s manual for instructions on how to use this feature.

In conclusion, learning how to do a rolled hem is a useful skill that can elevate the quality of your sewing projects and give your garments a professional finish. By understanding the steps and techniques involved in creating a rolled hem, you can easily add this elegant detail to any fabric or garment.

Firstly, choosing the right fabric and tools is crucial for achieving a perfect rolled hem. By selecting lightweight fabrics such as cotton or silk, you can achieve crisp and clean edges. Also, having the correct tools, such as a sharp pair of scissors and a ruler, will ensure accurate measurements and clean cuts.

Next, familiarizing yourself with the rolled hem foot and its settings is essential. The foot’s narrow groove helps to roll the fabric neatly while stitching, giving you an even hemline throughout. Additionally, adjusting the stitch length and tension according to your fabric’s thickness will help create a smooth finished edge.

Practicing proper technique is key in mastering a rolled hem. Taking small stitches and evenly feeding the fabric into the foot will result in an even and tight fold along the edge. Moreover, using an iron to press along the fabric’s folded edge before stitching will assist in maintaining a crisp appearance.

Additionally, incorporating finishing techniques such as backstitching or hand-sewing knots at

Author Profile

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.