Hem Tape

Hemming a garment or even a plain fabric gives it a perfect finishing touch. There are various ways in which you can hem the edges of a fabric. Hemming is often the final step while stitching a garment or even making items like quilts and blankets. Hem stitch is an essential part of altering outfits to have them in the desired shape and size. You can hem a fabric using a sewing machine or do the task by hand stitch as well. But how about using a hem tape? Wondering what it is? Here's all about this useful piece from the world of stitching, that is a great temporary alternative to needle and thread.

What is Hem Tape?

This tape is basically an adhesive tape which replaces the thread used in traditional hemming stitch. Using this heat activated tape is a much easier and faster job. This tape helps create a temporary hem which can be later removed while sewing the piece using thread. The tape is popularly used for doing alterations without cutting the fabric. Usually the tape is used to make temporary alterations, before stitching the fabric for final hems. You can remove the tape and do the required modifications. Let me tell that the bond created using the tape safely lasts through a few laundering.

This tape can be a great piece for those 'DIY' enthusiasts who stitch their own outfits. They can finish the hems using the tape and then add the final permanent stitch using thread after trying out whether the piece fits right. This can also be a useful piece for those fashionistas who love to experiment with their outfits. Like the tape can be used to shorten the length of a top to make it suitable for specific pants. You don't even need to learn to hem pants using a sewing machine. This adhesive tape can be used to temporarily shorten the length of pants while you are wearing flat shoes. Isn't it great? Let us find out how to use it.

How to Use the Tape

To start with, get the fabric washed without using a fabric softener. Lay the fabric on a table, inside out. Take the hemming tape and cut it into the required length depending upon the length of hem you want to put. For longer hems, use medium length pieces of tape. Iron the fabric to make it wrinkle free. Now iron the fabric where you want to hem it and create a crease that will help application of the tape. Remove the backing of tape carefully so that the tape does not get wrinkles. Place the tape between the last fold of hem. Read the 'how to use' instructions while doing so. This is help you rightly place the tape in the folded fabric. Many packets also have images that help you use the tape rightly. Switch in the iron and press it over the hem. Again, follow the instructions to set your iron at the right temperature. Ironing will help create the bond between two parts of fabric using this tape.

You can simply get this in a hobby store or shops selling stitching essentials. You can also buy this through online shopping. As this tape is available in various colors, types and widths, you need to pick the right piece depending upon your requirements. You can choose a piece depending upon the type of fabric you will be using it over. So how to hem a dress is not a tough task with the tape, right? You can use the hem tape for pants, dresses, curtains and many other fabric pieces. Choose a good quality tape to ensure the same works best and lasts longer.