Hemming sleeves is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes with just a few basic supplies. However, it can be a little tricky to get the hem just right, especially if you’re new to sewing. In this article, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions on how to hem sleeves perfectly, even if you’re a beginner.
First, you’ll need to gather your supplies. You’ll need a needle, thread, scissors, and a measuring tape or ruler. You may also want to use a thimble to protect your fingers. Once you have your supplies, you’re ready to get started.
The first step is to measure the length of the sleeve. You’ll want to measure from the bottom of the sleeve to the point where you want the hem to be. Once you have the measurement, you can add about 1/2 inch to allow for the seam allowance. Now, you can fold up the bottom of the sleeve by 1/2 inch and press it with an iron. This will create a crease that will help you to sew a straight hem.
Measuring the Sleeve Length
Accurately determining the desired sleeve length is crucial for achieving a perfect hem. Follow these steps to ensure a precise measurement:
1. Stand Up Straight: Start by standing up straight with your arms relaxed at your sides.
2. Locate the Wrist Bone: On your inner wrist, identify the prominent bump where your wrist bone (ulna) ends. This is known as the “wrist crease”.
3. Measure from the Wrist Crease: Using a measuring tape or a ruler, measure the distance from the wrist crease to the desired sleeve length. If you want the sleeve to fall at a specific point on your hand, measure to that point.
4. Add a Hem Allowance: To ensure a clean and durable hem, add 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) to your measurement. This extra length will be used to create the hem.
5. Note the Measurement: Record the final measurement in a safe place where you can easily refer to it when hemming.
Tips:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a flexible measuring tape | This will conform to the shape of your arm for a more accurate measurement. |
| Measure from the same wrist bone on both arms | Even though your arms may be slightly different, it is best to start from the same point on both wrists. |
| Consider your body proportions | The ideal sleeve length can vary depending on your height, shoulder width, and personal style. |
Preparing the Sewing Tools and Fabric
Gathering the Necessary Materials
Before you begin, ensure you have all the essential materials for hemming your sleeves. These include:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sewing machine | Stitches the fabric together |
| Thread | Holds the stitches in place |
| Iron and ironing board | Presses the fabric flat and creates crisp folds |
| Measuring tape or ruler | Determines the desired sleeve length |
| Fabric scissors | Trims excess fabric |
| Pins | Temporarily holds the fabric in place before sewing |
Preparing the Fabric
Once you have gathered the necessary tools, prepare the fabric for hemming. This involves the following steps:
- Turn the sleeve inside out and smooth out any wrinkles or folds.
- Measure the desired sleeve length from the hem to the intended new length.
- Mark the measurement on the fabric using pins or chalk.
- Fold the fabric up along the marked line, bringing the raw edge towards the inside.
- Press the folded edge with an iron to create a crisp crease.
Folding the Hem
To fold the hem, start by measuring the desired length of the hem and marking it with a pin or a fabric marker. Fold the hem up by 1/4 inch, and then fold it up again by another 1/4 inch. Press the hem in place with an iron.
For a more durable hem, you can fold the hem up by 1/2 inch, and then fold it up again by another 1/2 inch. Press the hem in place with an iron.
If the fabric is thin, you can fold the hem up by 1/4 inch, and then fold it up again by another 1/4 inch. Press the hem in place with an iron.
Ironing the Hem
Once the hem is folded, it is important to iron it in place. This will help to set the hem and prevent it from coming undone.
To iron the hem, use a medium heat setting on your iron. Press the iron down on the hem for 10-15 seconds, or until the hem is set.
If the fabric is thin, use a low heat setting on your iron. Press the iron down on the hem for 5-10 seconds, or until the hem is set.
Pressing the Hem
Once the hem is ironed, it is important to press it to set the hem. This will help to keep the hem in place and prevent it from coming undone.
To press the hem, place a pressing cloth over the hem and press down on the iron for 10-15 seconds. Repeat this process until the hem is set.
If the fabric is thin, place a pressing cloth over the hem and press down on the iron for 5-10 seconds. Repeat this process until the hem is set.
| Fabric Type | Hem Width | Iron Setting | Pressing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thin | 1/4 inch | Low | 5-10 seconds |
| Medium | 1/2 inch | Medium | 10-15 seconds |
| Thick | 1 inch | High | 15-20 seconds |
Pinning and Pressing the Hem
Once you have marked the hemline, it’s time to pin and press the hem. This will help to ensure that the hem is even and secure.
To pin the hem, start by folding the hem up to the marked line. Then, use pins to hold the hem in place, making sure that the pins are perpendicular to the hemline. Space the pins evenly about 1 inch apart.
Once the hem is pinned, it’s time to press it. This will help to set the crease and make it easier to sew the hem.
To press the hem, use a warm iron and a pressing cloth. Place the pressing cloth over the hem and press down on it with the iron. Hold the iron in place for a few seconds, then move it to the next section of the hem. Continue pressing the hem until it is completely set.
Measuring and Marking the Hem
- Measure the desired length of the sleeve from the shoulder seam to the desired hemline.
- Mark the hemline on the sleeve with a fabric pen or chalk.
- Measure the width of the hem you want to create and add 1/2 inch for seam allowance.
- Fold up the hem to the desired width and press it with an iron to create a crease.
- Fold up the hem again, aligning the raw edge with the crease, and press it again to set the fold.
Pinning the Hem
- Pin the hem in place, starting at the center of the sleeve and working towards the sides.
- Use straight pins, inserted perpendicular to the hemline, and space them about 1 inch apart.
- Ensure that the pins are not too close to the raw edge of the fabric, as this can cause the fabric to pucker.
Pressing the Hem
- Press the hem with a warm iron and a pressing cloth to set the pins and create a sharp crease.
- Hold the iron in place for a few seconds on each section of the hem to ensure it is properly set.
- Once the hem is pressed, remove the pins and proceed to sewing the hem in place.
Sewing the Hem by Hand
For a more professional finish, you can sew the hem by hand. This method is a bit more time-consuming, but it will give you a lasting and invisible hem.
- Fold up the hem twice. First, fold up the raw edge of the fabric by about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Then, fold it up again by another 1/4 inch (6 mm), enclosing the raw edge. Crease the hem firmly.
- Pin the hem in place. Use fine pins to secure the folded hem in place. Space the pins about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
- Thread a needle with matching thread. Use a fine needle and thread that matches the color of the fabric. Double the thread and knot the ends together.
- Start sewing the hem. Begin sewing the hem at one end, using a small stitch. Insert the needle into the folded edge of the hem, just below the crease. Bring the needle up through the other side of the hem, about 1/16 inch (1.5 mm) away from the first stitch. Repeat this process all the way around the hem.
- Secure the thread. Once you have sewn the entire hem, tie off the thread securely. To do this, make a few small stitches in the same place and then cut the thread close to the fabric.
|
Materials: |
|
|
Tools: |
|
Sewing the Hem by Machine
To sew the hem by machine, you will need a sewing machine, thread, and a needle. The type of thread and needle you use will depend on the fabric of your sleeves. Once you have gathered your supplies, read on to sew the hem by machine:
- Prepare the Sleeve: Fold the bottom edge of the sleeve up so that the wrong sides of the fabric are together. Press the fold to create a crease.
- Pin the Hem: Pin the hem in place, aligning the raw edge of the fabric with the crease. Pin the hem so that the stitches will be hidden when the sleeve is worn.
- Set the Sewing Machine: Set the sewing machine to the desired stitch length and width. For a hem, a straight stitch works well.
- Sew the Hem: Start sewing the hem, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Sew along the pinned edge of the fabric, keeping the stitch line straight.
- Finish the Hem: Once you have sewn the hem, press it to set the stitches. You can also top-stitch the hem to give it a more finished look.
-
Types of Hemming Stitches
Below are the types of hemming stitches that you can apply on your sleeves’ hem:
Hemming Stitch Description Blind Hem Creates invisible stitches that are not visible from the right side of the fabric. Rolled Hem Folds the fabric edge under twice and stitches it down, creating a delicate and narrow hem. Double-Fold Hem Folds the fabric edge under twice and stitches it down, creating a sturdy and durable hem.
Finishing the Seams
Once the sleeves are hemmed, it’s time to finish the seams. There are several ways to do this, but the most common methods are serging, zigzag stitching, and using seam tape.
-
Serging
-
Zigzag Stitching
-
Using Seam Tape
-
Table of Seam Finish Methods
-
Choosing the Right Seam Finish
Serging is a quick and easy way to finish seams. It uses a special machine that trims the fabric as it sews, creating a clean and finished edge. Serging is less bulky than zigzag stitching, making it a good choice for lightweight fabrics.
Zigzag stitching is another common way to finish seams. It can be done on a regular sewing machine, and it creates a more durable edge than serging. However, zigzag stitching can be bulky, so it’s not the best option for lightweight fabrics.
Seam tape is a thin, adhesive tape that can be applied to the seam allowance to finish it. It’s a quick and easy way to finish seams, but it can be less durable than serging or zigzag stitching.
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Serging | Quick and easy, creates a clean edge | Less durable than zigzag stitching, not suitable for lightweight fabrics |
| Zigzag Stitching | Durable, can be done on a regular sewing machine | Can be bulky, not suitable for lightweight fabrics |
| Seam Tape | Quick and easy, no sewing required | Less durable than serging or zigzag stitching |
The best seam finish for your project will depend on the fabric and the desired look. For lightweight fabrics, serging is a good option. For heavier fabrics, zigzag stitching is more durable. Seam tape is a quick and easy option for projects where durability is not a concern.
Ironing and Pressing the Hem
Once the hem is sewn, it’s important to iron and press it properly to achieve a crisp and professional finish. Here’s a detailed guide to ironing and pressing the hem:
1. Use a Pressing Cloth
To protect the fabric from scorching, place a pressing cloth over the hem area before ironing. This cloth will act as a barrier between the hot iron and the delicate fabric.
2. Set the Iron to the Appropriate Temperature
Refer to the fabric care label to determine the appropriate temperature setting for ironing. Using too high a temperature can damage the fabric.
3. Press the Hem
Gently press the hem with the iron, moving in even strokes from the inside to the outside of the sleeve. Apply firm pressure to set the hem in place.
4. Flip the Sleeve
Turn the sleeve inside out and press the hem again from the inside. This will help to secure the hem and give it a clean finish.
5. Use a Sleeve Board
For sleeves with tight curves or narrow openings, use a sleeve board. This will provide a smooth surface for pressing and prevent the hem from becoming distorted.
6. Check for Puckering
After pressing, inspect the hem for any puckering or unevenness. If necessary, adjust the stitch length or tension and press again.
7. Roll the Hem
For a more polished look, roll the hem slightly towards the inside before pressing. This will create a subtle crease that adds elegance to the sleeve.
8. Ironing Techniques for Different Fabrics
Different fabrics require different ironing techniques to achieve the best results. Here’s a table outlining the recommended techniques for common fabrics:
| Fabric | Ironing Technique |
|---|---|
| Cotton | Use a high heat setting and press with firm pressure. |
| Linen | Use a medium heat setting and press with a light touch. |
| Silk | Use a low heat setting and press gently through a damp pressing cloth. |
| Wool | Use a low heat setting and press with a steam iron. |
Checking the Hem Length
1. Put on the garment and stand in front of a mirror. The sleeves should hang naturally where you want them to after the hem is finished.
2. If you want to hem the sleeves to a specific length, measure from the shoulder seam to the desired length. Mark the length with a pin or chalk.
3. If you want to hem the sleeves to a specific style, such as a rolled hem or a cuff, follow the instructions for that type of hem.
4. Once you have determined the desired length and style of the hem, turn the garment inside out.
5. Fold the hem up to the desired length. Press the hem in place with an iron.
6. Pin the hem in place, making sure that the pins are perpendicular to the edge of the fabric.
7. Sew the hem in place, using a blind stitch or a topstitch.
8. Remove the pins and press the hem again. The sleeves are now hemmed!
9. Here is a table with some additional tips for hemming sleeves:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a sharp needle and thread | This will help to prevent the fabric from puckering. |
| Sew the hem in small stitches | This will help to keep the hem from coming undone. |
| Press the hem after sewing | This will help to set the stitches and give the hem a professional finish. |
Troubleshooting Hemming Issues
Machine Tension
If your stitches are too loose or uneven, check the tension of your sewing machine. Adjust the tension knob until the stitches are tight and consistent.
Uneven Hem
If your hem is uneven, measure the length of the hemmed area on both sides. If one side is longer than the other, shorten the longer side by folding it under a bit more.
Puckering
If your hem is puckering, you may have sewn it too tightly. Remove the stitches and sew the hem again, using a slightly wider stitch length.
Thread Breaking
If your thread keeps breaking, it may be too old or weak. Use a new spool of thread and make sure the tension is set correctly.
Needle Problems
If your needle is bent or dull, it will make it difficult to sew a neat hem. Replace the needle with a new one.
Wrong Presser Foot
Using the wrong presser foot can make it difficult to feed the fabric through the machine smoothly. Use a presser foot that is designed for hemming.
Fabric Slipping
If your fabric is slipping when you sew, use a walking foot or a Teflon presser foot to provide more traction.
Skipping Stitches
If your machine is skipping stitches, clean the bobbin area and rethread the machine. You may also need to adjust the tension.
Fabric Fraying
If your fabric is fraying, use a fabric stabilizer or a seam sealer to prevent it from unraveling.
Blind Hem Stitches Not Invisible
If your blind hem stitches are not invisible, check the stitch length and width. You may also need to adjust the tension or use a different type of needle.
| Troubleshooting | Solution |
|---|---|
| Loose or uneven stitches | Adjust machine tension |
| Uneven hem | Measure and shorten longer side |
| Puckering | Sew with wider stitch length |
| Thread breaking | Use new thread and adjust tension |
| Needle problems | Replace with new needle |
| Wrong presser foot | Use hemming presser foot |
| Fabric slipping | Use walking foot or Teflon presser foot |
| Skipping stitches | Clean bobbin area and rethread machine |
| Fabric fraying | Use fabric stabilizer or seam sealer |
| Blind hem stitches not invisible | Adjust stitch length, width, tension, or needle type |
How To Hem Sleeves
A well-fitting sleeve can make all the difference in the overall look of your garment. If your sleeves are too long, they can make you look sloppy and unkempt. Conversely, if your sleeves are too short, they can make you look like you’re wearing a child’s shirt.
Hemming sleeves is a relatively simple task that can be done by hand or by machine. If you’re new to sewing, I recommend starting with a hand-stitched hem. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can move on to machine-stitching.
Materials
- Sleeves that need to be hemmed
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Fabric scissors
- Needle and thread (for hand-stitching)
- Sewing machine (for machine-stitching)
- Iron and ironing board
Instructions
Hand-Stitching
- Measure the desired length of the sleeve.
- Fold the sleeve up to the desired length, and press the fold with an iron.
- Fold the sleeve up again, and press the fold again.
- Stitch the hem in place using a small, even stitch.
Machine-Stitching
- Measure the desired length of the sleeve.
- Fold the sleeve up to the desired length, and press the fold with an iron.
- Fold the sleeve up again, and press the fold again.
- Set your sewing machine to a small, even stitch.
- Stitch the hem in place, following the edge of the fold.
Tips
- When hemming sleeves, it’s important to use a fabric that is similar in weight and texture to the fabric of the sleeve.
- If you’re not sure how to hem a sleeve, ask a friend or family member for help.
- Be patient and take your time. Hemming sleeves can be a time-consuming task, but it’s worth it in the end.
People Also Ask About How To Hem Sleeves
How can I hem sleeves without a sewing machine?
You can hem sleeves without a sewing machine by hand-stitching the hem in place. To do this, you will need a needle and thread, a measuring tape or ruler, and a pair of fabric scissors.
How do I hem sleeves on a shirt?
To hem sleeves on a shirt, you will need to measure the desired length of the sleeve, fold the sleeve up to the desired length, and press the fold with an iron. You can then either hand-stitch the hem in place or machine-stitch the hem in place.
How do I hem sleeves on a jacket?
To hem sleeves on a jacket, you will need to measure the desired length of the sleeve, fold the sleeve up to the desired length, and press the fold with an iron. You can then either hand-stitch the hem in place or machine-stitch the hem in place.
