Using a blind hem stitch creates an almost invisible hem, perfect for achieving a professional finish on garments. The sewing machine will create straight stitches with small bites into the folded edge of the fabric.
Here's a breakdown of how to sew a blind hem, incorporating information from the YouTube video "How to Sew a Blind Hem Stitch":
Steps to Sew a Blind Hem
While specific instructions will vary slightly depending on your sewing machine model, here's the general process. Refer to your sewing machine manual for the most accurate instructions.
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Prepare the Hem:
- Finish the raw edge of your fabric with a serger, zigzag stitch, or another suitable edge finish to prevent fraying.
- Press the hem up to the desired hemline.
- Press the hem up again, folding under the finished edge, leaving about 1/4 to 1/2 inch of the finished edge showing. This folded edge is where the blind hem stitch will "bite."
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Set Up Your Sewing Machine:
- Select the blind hem stitch on your sewing machine. The stitch usually looks like a series of straight stitches followed by a small zigzag.
- Attach the blind hem foot if your machine has one. This foot helps to guide the fabric and create a consistent stitch.
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Position the Fabric:
- Place the fabric under the presser foot with the wrong side facing up. The folded edge should be positioned so that the needle will sew mostly on the larger folded part of the hem, with the occasional "bite" into the smaller folded edge.
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Stitch the Hem:
- Begin sewing slowly, allowing the machine to create the blind hem stitch.
- The machine will make a few straight stitches on the main part of the hem and then take a small "bite" into the folded edge, as mentioned in the video.
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Press the Hem:
- Once you've stitched the entire hem, unfold the hem.
- Press the hem flat. The tiny stitches from the "bite" should be barely visible from the right side of the garment, creating an almost invisible hem.
The YouTube video emphasizes that the blind hem stitch involves straight stitches followed by a small "bite" into the fold, making it very invisible. Choosing a thread that matches your fabric color will also help to make the hem even less noticeable.
