how to hem a knit dress by hand: A Step-by-Step Guide
Knit dresses are incredibly comfortable and versatile, making them a popular choice for many women. However, when it comes to hemming a knit dress, many people feel intimidated. Hemming knits can be a bit tricky due to their stretchy nature, but with the right technique, you can achieve professional-looking results. In this article, we will guide you through the process of hemming a knit dress by hand, step by step.
1. Gather the Necessary Supplies
Before you start hemming your knit dress, make sure you have all the necessary supplies at hand. You will need a measuring tape, pins, a hand sewing needle, thread that matches the color of your dress, fabric scissors, and an iron.
2. Try on the Dress and Determine the Desired Length
Put on the knit dress and stand in front of a full-length mirror. Determine the desired length of your dress by considering your personal preference and the occasion for which you'll be wearing it. Use the measuring tape to measure the distance from the current hemline to the desired length.
3. Mark the Hemline of a knit dress
Take off the dress and lay it flat on a clean, flat surface. Use pins to mark the new hemline, making sure it is even all the way around. If your dress has a curved hemline, use a fabric marker to draw a smooth line.
4. Cut the Excess Fabric of a knit dress
Using a pair of fabric scissors, carefully cut along the marked hemline, leaving a small allowance of about ½ inch for folding and sewing. Be cautious not to stretch or distort the fabric as you cut.
5. Fold and Pin the Hem
With the dress still laid flat, fold the raw edge of the fabric up to the inside of the dress, using the marked hemline as a guide. Pin the folded hem in place, ensuring that the fabric is smooth and even all around.
6. Prepare the Needle and Thread of a knit dress
Thread your hand sewing needle with a thread that matches the color of your dress. Double-thread the needle to make the stitching more secure. Tie a knot at the end of the thread.
7. Start Sewing
Begin sewing the folded hem by inserting the needle from the inside of the dress, catching only a few threads of the fabric to create a nearly invisible stitch. Pull the thread gently, but not too tightly, to avoid puckering the fabric. Continue sewing along the hemline, removing the pins as you go.
8. Finish the Hem of a knit dress
When you reach the starting point, make a small backstitch to secure the thread. Trim any excess thread and carefully press the hem with an iron, using a low heat setting appropriate for your fabric. Be cautious not to leave the iron on the fabric for too long to prevent scorching.
9. Try on the Dress and Make Adjustments if Needed
Put on the dress again to check the length and overall appearance of the hem. If you're satisfied, congratulations! You have successfully hemmed your knit dress by hand. However, if you need to make any adjustments, carefully remove the stitches and repeat the hemming process.
10. Care for Your Hemmed Knit Dress
After hemming your knit dress, it's essential to care for it properly to maintain its appearance. Always follow the care instructions on the dress's label. When washing, turn the dress inside out and use a gentle cycle or hand wash it. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleaching agents, as they can damage the fabric.