How to Hem Handkerchiefs

Handkerchiefs are a simple but useful sewing project. You can make them from just about any cotton or cotton blend fabric, from plain white to calicoes to whimsical prints. Make sure to choose a good quality thread that matches the fabric. Since handkerchiefs go through the wash a lot, you’ll want to pre-wash and dry the fabric to make sure it’s soft and preshrunk, then iron out any wrinkles. Handkerchiefs have tiny hems, so you may want to use a rolled hem foot if your sewing machine has one.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cotton or poly-cotton fabric
• Matching thread
• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Iron
• Ironing board
• Sewing machine
• Rolled hem foot (optional)

Hemming Handkerchiefs Using Standard Hems

1. Cut the fabric into squares about 1-inch bigger than you want the finished handkerchiefs.

2. Fold one edge of the fabric over twice toward the wrong side of the fabric, making each fold about 1/4-inch wide. This will encase the edge of the fabric inside the fold.

3. Press the fold flat, then stitch along the center of the folded edge.

4. Fold over the next edge of the square the same way, then press and stitch the folds in place. Since the corners of the handkerchief can get thick, you may want to start sewing a little ways in from the edge. Then turn the fabric around and stitch from the opposite direction. Stitch off the edge of the fabric to hold the corner in place.

5. Repeat step 4 for the remaining edges of the handkerchief.

Hemming Handkerchiefs Using Rolled Hems

6. Cut the fabric into squares about 1/2-inch bigger than you want the finished handkerchiefs.

7. Remove the standard presser foot from your sewing machine and attach the rolled hem foot.

8. Fold the top two to three inches of one edge of the fabric over twice toward the wrong side of the fabric, making each fold about 1/8-inch wide. This will encase the edge of the fabric inside the fold. Hold the fold in place with your fingers.

9. Insert the folded edge of the fabric into the sewing machine. Lower the needle, then lower the rolled hem foot.

10. Stitch for about 1 1/2 to 2 inches, then stop and raise the presser foot. Insert the cut edge of the fabric into the slot in the rolled hem foot. Lower the foot and continue stitching, letting the machine fold the fabric with the rolled hem foot.

11. Repeat steps 3 through 5 for the other sides of the handkerchief.

Tips & Warnings

• If you haven’t used a rolled hem foot before, you may want to practice on a scrap of fabric first. It takes some practice to get the rolled hems even.
• Use caution when working with scissors, irons and sewing machines.