How to use a Hemmer Foot a.k.a how to sew a rolled hem

Okay, so as promised, I'll tell you a little more about using a hemmer foot to produce that lovely ruffly pillow I bragged about (the one I made my mom for Christmas).








I posted a while back about sewing with a hemmer foot to make this lovely pink frosting-like pillow case back in August.

But I have to admit, since that time I've gotten even better at using a hemmer foot and found a few tricks that help make practically perfect seams every time. I know, there I go bragging again. Bear with me.

I found some great tips on this video. I'm so much better at learning something when I can watch it and practice it. I watched another video and gleaned some goodness off of hers too, but for the life of me I can't find it again. Sorry nice lady!

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Three of the best tips I found

for using a hemmer foot for a rolled hem-

#1. SLOW AND STEADY (take a chill and slow it down)

#2. Fold over material and finger-press to create a starter seam

#3. Help your hemmer foot do the work by continuing to fold over your seam & hold fabric taut

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Okay, lets put these tips to work:

• I folded over and created a start to the seam the same width as the groove in the hemmer foot (I used a 4mm).  This is cotton fabric, so pressing the seam down with my finger held it well.

• I folded it over again and finger-pressed it. This became the start to the seam.

• I put this seam directly under the hemmer foot and stitched a few stitches to secure it

• Next, I pulled the fabric up and in the hold of the hemmer foot.

• I continued to fold over the material as it feed through, while holding it taut (slightly-tight but not too tight). It helped guide the material through the foot neatly.

• Here's me in action. Keeping the continuous fold, while guiding the material and holding it taut. (You have no idea how tricky it was to get this shot. What I won't do for my blog.)

• Check out the left seam. Straight, straight, straight!

• So precise. And practically perfect. What'd I tell ya?

• Gotta love this technique!

It made sewing these ruffles so much easier.

Don't do it the hard way, give those sewing feet a try!

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