Satin dresses remain a common garment in many wardrobes because of the beauty and shine of the fabric with which they are made. However, satin is a delicate and slippery material. If you need to hem a satin gown or dress, follow a specific procedure to ensure the hem looks professional and lasts for years. This process requires a sewing machine, items found in your sewing kit and basic sewing skills.
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Things You'll Need
Scissors (If Shortening The Dress)
Sewing Machine
Satin Dress To Be Hemmed
Flat Iron
Measuring Tape
Thread, Poly-Cotton Blend
Step 1
Preheat the iron to the satin setting. Check the manufacturer's directions to determine the correct setting. Do not set the iron higher than the recommended temperature for satin; satin is a delicate material that may melt when exposed to high heat.
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Step 2
Determine exactly where you will cut off the excess fabric if you have to shorten the dress. This measurement will be the length of the finished garment plus 1/2 inch. The extra 1/2 will be used for the hem. Trim off the excess fabric. If you are not shortening the dress, omit this step.
Step 3
Fold the raw edge of the dress under 1/4 inch toward the inside of the garment. Press the fold with the hot preheated iron to sharpen the crease and keep it in place.
Step 4
Fold up the edge of the dress 1/4 to the inside one more time. Press to sharpen the crease.
Step 5
Stitch the hem into place with the sewing machine. Keep your line of straight stitching just under 1/4 inch from the folded edge of the dress. Press the finished hem one more time.
Tip
To disguise the thread, use a thread that is similar in color to the fabric.
Warning
Do not pin the hem in place. Doing so can damage a delicate fabric such as satin.