How to Use the Presser Foot for Lettuce Hems

A lettuce hem takes its name from its ruffled appearance, resembling the edge of a bunch of leaf lettuce. Sewing a lettuce hem is a fast way to add a decorative edge to a garment. This hem works best on knit fabrics and other stretchy garments and gives a lacy effect without the addition of lace. It's popular on lingerie and children's clothing. You can use almost any presser foot to achieve the lettuce hem effect.

Instructions

1. Set your sewing machine to sew a zig zag stitch. Set the stitch spacing as narrow as possible. Make sure you have a zig zag or satin stitch presser foot installed on your machine. This presser foot has a wide gap that allows the needle to move back and forth.

2. Take a few stitches in the edge of your garment. Backstitch to anchor the stitches.

3. Hold the back of the fabric with your left hand, behind the presser foot. Hold the front of the fabric with your right hand, several inches in front of the presser foot, and stretch the fabric taut. If you're left handed, switch the position of the hands. Begin sewing, holding the fabric taut and stretched as you sew. The presser foot will hold the fabric secure, allowing you to stretch it. As you sew, you'll notice the already sewn fabric takes on a ruffled appearance. Continue all the way around the garment.

4. Backstitch several stitches at the end of the hem to secure the stitches. Clip the thread.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a contrasting color of thread for your hem to draw attention to the hem and add to the decorative effect.

References

• Central Washington University: Machine Hem --- Hollywood/Lettuce
• "200 Sewing Tips, Techniques and Trade Secrets;" Lorna Knight; 2010