How to Keep Hems From Fraying

Hems can begin to fray with time.

Whether you are sewing a hem on an article of clothing, or trying to keep a favorite outfit from fraying, stop the unraveling before it has a chance to deteriorate further. The easiest way to curb fraying is to sew a hem the correct way. If you have an item of clothing that has already frayed, use a clear liquid specifically designed for fraying.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Iron
• Pins
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• Fray stop liquid

Instructions

Sewing a Hem

1. Trim the edge of the fabric with pinking shears. This will help to stop the fraying before it is sewn.

2. Measure 1/4-inch from the bottom of the garment and press to the inside.

3. Measure another 1/4-inch and press under again. Pin the fabric in place. You have now encased the cut edge within the raw hem.

4. Sew the hem, catching the layers of fabric within the stitching.

5. Trim loose threads.

Fraying Once Sewn

1. Locate the place on the hem that is fraying.

2. Apply a thin layer of fray stop liquid to the area. Cover the entire fabric area that is fraying.

3. Allow the liquid to dry completely, approximately 30 minutes.

4. Carefully cut off any long threads that have frayed. Do not handle or attempt to trim before you have applied the fray stop liquid, or it may fray more.

Tips & Warnings

• There are several brands of fray stop liquids on the market. Look in your craft or fabric store.

References

• Sew 4 Home; How to Make a Hem; Liz Johnson: July 2009
• Dritz: Fray Check
• Craft Critique; June Taylor's Fray Block; February 2009
• Sewing with Shannon; Creating a Simple Hem; March 2011