How to Hem a Knit Skirt
Knit fabrics are often favored for making clothing because they are so comfortable. People who sew their own clothing often prefer working with knit fabrics because knits stitch easily and create well-fitting clothes. When you sew with knits, you must ensure that the fabric stretches correctly across the pattern pieces or your clothing will not have the proper fit. For example, when you sew a knit skirt, the stretch of the knit fabric needs to go horizontally across the skirt. When it is time to hem your knit skirt, hang it for a day prior to hemming so the skirt will be the desired length after hemming.
Things You'll Need
- Serger
- An assistant
- Tape measure
- Pins
- Iron
- Scissors
- Sewing machine
- Ballpoint sewing needle
Instructions
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1
Serge the raw edge of the knit skirt first. This will help to stabilize the knit fabric and keep it from stretching out of shape. If you do not have a serger, stitch a zigzag line along the raw edge of the fabric.
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2
Try the knit skirt on, wearing the shoes you will wear with the skirt. Stand straight and ask your assistant to help you determine the desired length of your hem.Have your assistant place a pin at the desired length and then turn under the knit fabric at this length. Place pins to hold the turned-under fabric in place around the entire bottom edge of the skirt. Make sure you like the length one more time before you proceed. Remove the skirt.
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3
Turn the skirt inside out and press the turned-under edge with the iron to hold the fold. Trim the fabric on the other side of the fold so it is 5/8 of an inch wide. Turn the skirt right side out.
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4
Position the skirt in your sewing machine to topstitch a ½-inch hem. This will position your stitch line just under the raw edge of the turned-under fabric. Set the stitch length to a medium length. Use a ballpoint needle in the machine to prevent snagging. Stitch slowly to ensure you are not stretching the fabric as you sew. Remove the pins.
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