Hemming tape is a very useful invention.This form of securing a hem uses a double-sided thin, strip of webbing with a heat-activated glue.It comes in a roll of tape and has the ability to stick fabric on both sides.
How to Use Hemming Tape Tutorial
Hemming tape is ideal if you are in a hurry and for emergencies when you need to make a quick repair to hems.Simply measure the spot to hem, put the tape in-between the garment and the hem, and press in place.The heat of the iron and the bonding on the tape do the trick of sealing the hem. No-sew hems!
Is Hemming Tape Permanent?
Good quality hemming tape is permanent and is designed to be washed. It is a great alternative to using a needle and thread and will definitely last.
Where to Buy Hemming Tape?
Hemming tape is widely available at any fabric shop or haberdashery. Also, check your local supermarket or department store if they have a small sewing section. For online options, try Amazon, or eBay.
How to Use Hemming Tape Step by Step
Follow these steps for the simple process of applying hemming tape.
Step One - Preparation
PREWASH - Make sure your fabric or garment is pre-washed and ready to accept the hemming tape. Avoid using fabric softener for the first application because it will affect the bonding glue, and the tape will not stick as firmly.
SHORTENING - If you are using hemming tape to shorten a pair of jeans, pants, or a skirt, measure your required length and then add at least 1 ¼ inch (3cm) for seam allowance on the hem. Most hemming tapes are 1 inch (2.5cm). For jeans, don't forget to wash them first in case they shrink.
FINISHING - The edge can be left raw or if you have a sewing machine, finished with a zig-zag stitch. Sergers are often used to stop the edge from fraying. Pinking shears cut the edge in a zig-zag pattern reducing fraying.
For those of you who are not sewers don't worry too much about leaving a straight raw edge. The hemming tape will do a good job of sealing the fabric edges and minimizing fraying in most fabrics.
Step Two - Cutting the Hemming Tape
Cut the tape the length of the fabric that needs hemming. If it is a repair to a hem, measure the portion to be repaired and cut the tape accordingly.
Press the hem area and insert the tape between the hem and the wrong side of the garment.The hemming tape is the same on both sides.
The hem should be pressed up by the width of the tape and ⅛ inch (3mm) extra. My tape was 1 inch (2.5cm) so I pressed the hem up 1 ⅛ inch (2.8cm). You don't want any of the tape to come above the hem as it will ruin your iron.
Follow the pressing instructions.If there is a long area to be hemmed press and hem in small portions. The iron will need to be hot so use a cotton pressing cloth between it and the fabric if your garment is delicate or made from anything synthetic. You don't want to melt your fabric!
How to Use Hemming Tape Tips
- Practice on a scrap to get the iron temperature and the fabric, as well as tape insertion all correct.
- Press down with the iron firmly.Hold for a short while and then release.
- Do not iron over and over, this is a press and release motion.
- Use a pressing cloth for delicate fabrics.
- On your test sample let the fabric cool and see if the hemming tape has set. If the hem peels away the iron was not hot enough.
- Take care NOT to have the hemming web exposed.It will stick to the iron. The glue of the hemming web is difficult to remove.
- When you feel confident to apply the tape to your hem, start the process in stages. It is important to keep the tape smooth at all times and not let it get twisted.
- Gently iron on both sides of the hem and be sure there are no wrinkles or tucks that may spoil the overall look of your hem.
ACCIDENTS WITH HEMMING TAPE - What if I make a mistake, you might be thinking.Hemming web is permanent.You may be able to pull it apart and then use some fabric cleaner to remove the glue.However, it is made to stick and the residue of the glue stays on the fabric.This means it is important to be as careful as possible.
How to Use Hemming Tape for Knit Fabric
Hemming tape can be used for knit fabric in exactly the same way. See the difference it can make to the puckering on knit hems. It gives stability and a firm edge to even sewn edges.
Alternatives to How to Use Hemming Tape
If you can't get hemming tape then the next best option is a simple hand stitch. Read hemming stitch for 7 easy options. If you are an absolute beginner at sewing, skip straight to the running stitch section of the article.
Hemming Tape FAQs
How Long Do You Leave the Iron On Hem Tape?
How long you leave the iron on hemming tape will depend on the fabric. As a general guide try 5 to 10 seconds. Put the iron setting on the suitable one for your fabric. Cotton and linen can take a hot iron while synthetic fabrics will need a lower heat setting. Always use a pressing cloth if in doubt in order to protect your fabric.
Does Hemming Tape Last?
Yes, hemming tape lasts very well. It is a permanent tape designed to be washed and has a very strong glue once fixed correctly according to the manufacturer's instructions.
What is Hemming Tape Used For?
Hemming tape is used for clothing and fabric items where a permanent no-sew hem is required. It is placed under the hem and ironed to activate the glue. This special tape can be washed and lasts extremely well.
Does Hemming Tape Work on All Fabrics?
Hemming tape works best on natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, and rayon. It creates permanent and no-sew hems on both woven and knit fabrics. Always check the labels for fabric recommendations.
How to Use Hemming Tape - In Conclusion
Hemming tape can take some practice, but once you have mastered this delicate tape, it is a very useful addition to your sewing basket.It travels well too and could be just the right thing for any little repair job while you are away from your trusty sewing machine.
How to Use Hemming Tape
Get this quick tutorial on how to use hemming tape for easy no-sew hems on your dresses, pants and more.
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Print Pin
Difficulty: Easy Beginner
Keyword: Sewing
Total Time: 5 minutes minutes
Tools
Scissors
Iron
Materials
- Hemming Tape
Instructions
Prewash and shorten your garment if necessary. Optional - If your item has a raw edge, finish the edge with a serger, pinking shears or zig-zag. If you don't have a sewing machine, you can skip this step.
On the wrong side of the garment, press the hem by the width of the tape and ⅛ inch (3mm) extra.
Insert the hemming tape between the hem and garment. Make sure none is stitcking out. Press the hem according to the hemming tape instructions and your fabric type. Use a pressing cloth for delicate fabrics.
More Hem Articles
- GENERAL HEMS –How to Sew a Hem
- NARROW HEMS –Sew a Narrow Hem
- ROLLED HEM FOOT –How to Use a Rolled Hem Foot
- WIDE HEMS –How to Sew Wide Hems
- CIRCULAR HEMS –How to Sew Round Hems
- BLIND HEMS –How to Sew a Blind Hem
- RUFFLED HEMS –Lettuce Hems
- KNIT FABRIC HEMS –How to Hem Knit Fabric,Catch Stitch
- KNIT HEMS –Twin Needle
- SQUARE HEMS –How to Sew Mitered Corners
- HAND HEMS – Hemming Stitch
- NO SEW HEMS - How to Use Hemming Tape
- SIMPLE HEMS - Single Fold Hems
- DOUBLE HEMS - Double Fold Hems
- BIAS - Bias Tape Hems
- SCALLOPS - Scalloped Edges
- INVISIBLE HEMS - Blind Hem Stitch
Hems on Clothing
- Hemming a Dress
- Hem a Skirt
- Hemming Pants
4.9/5 - (15 votes)
As a seasoned sewing enthusiast and expert, I can confidently attest to the invaluable utility of hemming tape in the realm of garment construction and repair. Having employed this innovative solution in numerous projects, I can vouch for its efficacy in creating seamless, no-sew hems.
The concept of hemming tape involves a double-sided strip of webbing with a heat-activated glue, packaged in a convenient roll of tape. This tape, when applied correctly, can securely adhere fabric on both sides, offering a quick and reliable method for hemming. I have personally used hemming tape in situations that demanded swift repairs or when time constraints ruled out traditional needle-and-thread methods.
One of the remarkable features of good-quality hemming tape is its permanence. It is designed to withstand washing, making it a durable and long-lasting alternative to traditional sewing techniques. This characteristic ensures that the hems created with hemming tape maintain their integrity over time.
For those wondering about the availability of hemming tape, it is widely accessible at fabric shops, haberdasheries, and even local supermarkets or department stores with sewing sections. Additionally, online platforms such as Amazon or eBay provide convenient options for purchasing hemming tape.
Now, let's delve into the step-by-step process of using hemming tape, as outlined in the provided article:
How to Use Hemming Tape Step by Step
Step One - Preparation
- PREWASH: Ensure the fabric is pre-washed and free of fabric softener for optimal tape adhesion.
- SHORTENING: When using hemming tape for shortening, measure the required length and add at least 1 ¼ inch for seam allowance.
- FINISHING: The edge can be left raw or finished with a zig-zag stitch, serger, or pinking shears.
Step Two - Cutting the Hemming Tape
- Cut the tape to the length of the fabric that needs hemming.
- Insert the tape between the hem and the wrong side of the garment.
- Press the hem area with the iron to activate the bonding glue on the tape.
How to Use Hemming Tape Tips
- Practice on a scrap to get the iron temperature, fabric, and tape insertion correct.
- Press down firmly with the iron and avoid excessive ironing.
- Use a pressing cloth for delicate fabrics to protect them from the heat.
- Avoid exposing the hemming web to the iron, as the glue is challenging to remove.
Accidents with Hemming Tape
- Hemming web is permanent, but if a mistake occurs, it may be pulled apart, and fabric cleaner can be used to remove the glue.
How to Use Hemming Tape for Knit Fabric
- Hemming tape works for knit fabric in the same way, providing stability and a firm edge to sewn edges.
Hemming Tape FAQs
How Long Do You Leave the Iron On Hem Tape?
- The duration depends on the fabric, generally 5 to 10 seconds. Use an appropriate iron setting for the fabric type.
Does Hemming Tape Last?
- Yes, hemming tape is designed to be permanent and lasts well when applied correctly.
What is Hemming Tape Used For?
- Hemming tape is used for creating permanent, no-sew hems on clothing and fabric items.
Does Hemming Tape Work on All Fabrics?
- It works best on natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and rayon, offering permanent and no-sew hems for both woven and knit fabrics.
How to Use Hemming Tape - In Conclusion
- While hemming tape may require some practice, it proves to be a valuable addition to your sewing tools. It's especially handy for quick repairs on the go.
As a final note, the provided article also offers a comprehensive list of other hemming techniques and applications, showcasing the versatility of hemming tape in the broader context of garment construction.
