Hemming Knits With a Coverstitch Machine

If you're lucky enough to own or have access to a coverstitch machine, this post is for you.  I sew with knits a lot, so a coverstitch machine was worth the investment.  It saves me time in the fact that I don't have to rethread my sewing machine with a double needle, the machine simply sews faster than a regular home sewing machine and I don't have to worry as much about tunneling.  Below you'll find a video tutorial and instructions for hemming with a coverstitch machine.

Supplies:

-Coverstitch Machine

-Matching Thread

-Iron and Ironing Board

-Ruler (optional)

-Pins (optional)

-Scissors

1) An iron is your best friend when it comes to hemming.  Following the hem allowance on the pattern, fold the fabric under towards the wrong side of the fabric.  Pin (optional) and press in place.

Full disclosure, I'm not a huge fan of using pins, because in school it wasn't allowed while sewing on the industrial machines.  It also just pokes unnecessary holes in the fabric.  There are some fabrics that don't press well though, so pinning is necessary at times.

2) Working from the right side of the fabric, sew the hem.  Since you're sewing from the right side, be careful to ensure you catch the fabric in the stitching line. 

Pro Tip: When sewing hems, start at the side seam or underarm seam. This creates a cleaner hem and hides the transition where sewing begins and ends.

3) Carefully trim the excess fabric from the hem as close to the stitch as possible.  Be careful not to cut a hole in the fabric or cut any of the stitches.  Trimming the excess fabric creates a cleaner, more professional appearance.

4) Press to remove any wrinkles.

If you want a more in-depth introduction to hemming knits, check out this post.

Happy Sewing,