How to Use a Rolled Hem Presser Foot

A rolled hem presser foot attachment on your sewing machine allows you to make narrow, professional hems. Use these rolled hems on napkins, ruffles, handkerchiefs, lingerie or anytime a regular folded hem would be too bulky. The presser foot enables you to sew neat hems more quickly than you'd be able to produce them by hand. Rolled hems work best for lightweight fabrics such as cotton, lawn or silk.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sewing Machine
• Iron

1. Attach the presser foot and choose a straight stitch. Fold under 1/8 inch on edge of fabric and press the first 1 inch of the hem. Fold this over a second time and press again. You'll have turned under a total of 1/4 inch of fabric.

2. Place this folded section of fabric under the presser foot, lined up beneath the channel in the presser foot. Lower the presser foot and sew a few stitches to secure the beginning of the hem.

3. Raise the presser foot and insert the sewn edge of the fabric into the channel in the rolled hem presser foot. Lower the presser foot.

4. Grasp the tails of thread at the end of the fabric with your left hand and use your right hand to guide the fabric into the presser foot. Hold the fabric taut as you sew. After you've sewn a few inches, you can relax your left hand. Continue to guide the fabric with your right hand. You may find it helpful to roll the fabric with your thumb to help it start to curl into the presser foot.

Tips & Warnings

• Sew slowly, guiding the fabric as you go.
• A rolled hem presser foot will not work well on heavy fabric, such as denim or heavy knits. The rolled hem presser foot is unsuitable for designs with sharp curves.

References

• Singer Sewing Company: Rolled Hem Foot Instructions

Resources

• Sewing Machine Sales: Rolled Hem Foot Video Tutorial