How to Make Serger Ribbon

Create a hand-rolled edge on ribbons to stop fraying or insert wire.

A serger ribbon is a ribbon with rolled edges. This creates a small area through which you can pass objects. For instance, serger ribbon is often used to create wire ribbon, as a thin length of wire is passed down both edges of the ribbon to provide structure to the ribbon fabric. When the wired ribbon is folded into a shape, the wire ensures that the ribbon maintains its shape. The stitch used to create serger ribbon is known as an "unbalanced stitch," as the front of the stitch is pulled to the back of the stitch.

Things You'll Need

• Sewing machine
• Ribbon
• Rolled hem foot attachment

Instructions

1. Turn over approximately 1/4 inch of the edge of the ribbon and finger press the edge down.

2. Anchor the rolled edge by sewing the seam for the first 1/2 inch at the beginning and end of the ribbon edges, using the machine's rolled hem foot attachment. Do not have the edge of the ribbon in the scroll of the hemming foot. Make sure that when you stop, the needle is in the down position.

3. Guide the fabric into the scroll of the rolled hem sewing foot. A seam ripper or awl can help here, if you are having difficulties.

4. Feed the fabric evenly into the scroll and keep the edge straight. Sew the rolled hem until you reach the end of the ribbon.

5. Repeat Steps 1 through 4 for the other side of the ribbon.

References

• University of Kentucky Extension Service: Serger Sewing Rolled Edge
• The Sewing Divas: Tutorial -- Rolled Hem Foot
• Colette Patterns: Tutorial: How to Create a Hand Rolled Hem