How to Hem Fabric That Frays Easily
Sometimes the simplest sewing job is the most difficult -- or at least the most frustrating. Unless you desire the frayed look, loose edges on a skirt or jacket can make hemming time consuming and tricky to master. It's easy to lose patience with all those threads as you try to keep your garment from unraveling.
Things You'll Need
- Liquid seam sealant
- Sewing machine or serger
- Needle
- Thread
- Piece of paper
- Rubbing alcohol
Instructions
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Use a seam sealant. Place a piece of paper behind your fabric to prevent seepage through to your work table or your hands. Put the tube against the fabric and squeeze along the hem, being careful the sealant doesn't come out too quickly. You need only a small amount to do the job. Fold the fabric over and wait at least 15 minutes until it dries and the hem is secure. Keep rubbing alcohol on hand to remove any excess liquid on your fabric.
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Use a serger. Unlike the typical sewing machine, sergers use two needles and between two and five threads. You decide how many are suitable for your type of fabric. The overlocking stitch goes around the edge of the garment, preventing fraying. Use a size 70, 80 or 90 needle and long, heavy thread that won't break easily. This machine is typically used to hem fabric that stretches, such as knits.
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Sew a zigzag stitch. Most sewing machines are equipped with the necessary presser foot and needle plate for this type of stitch. Make adjustments that allow for a wide or narrow stitch width. Sewing in a zigzag pattern also allows a garment's hem to stretch without breaking.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
