How to Sew a Narrow Hem

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A narrow hem (also called rolled hems) is a great hemming method for circular shapes and fine fabrics such as silks and chiffon. Here I will show you 3 easy methods for sewing a narrow hem.

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METHOD 1: narrow hem With a Serger

Stitch around your hem with your serger, only cutting off a minimum amount from the edge.

If your hem is curved you can adjust your differential feed so it gathers very slightly. This will help ease in the curve when you turn the hem up in the next step.

Alternative: If you don’t have a serger you can use the over edge function on your regular sewing machine.

narrow hem with serger — Serger the raw edge

Fold the hem to the wrong side at the width of your stitches. You could press it over before stitching but I find it easier to just fold and stitch. Stitch with a straight stitch close to the folded edge.

Turn the edge over again and stitch on top of the first row of stitching. Give your edge a good press and you will see how accurate a hem this method gives.

METHOD 2: narrow hem With a Sewing Machine

This method of creating a narrow hem creates great results with no special tools or machine feet.

Press up the edge by 3/8 inch (1cm) and stitch close to the bottom folded edge. Try and stitch as close to the edge as you can.

Trim close to the stitching line.

Fold over the hem again creating a 1/8 inch (3mm) hem. (Or as close to that as you can.) Stitch over your first row of stitching. Give it all a good press and you are all done!