How to Hem Slippery Fabrics

I had some tailoring work to do and this shirt posed a particular problem. The fabric was soft ,slippery and it would not hold a press. It was far too scalloped to use a hem foot or attachment. The shirt was longer in the front and back and higher on the sides. I tried hand turning a 1/4″ double turn but the fabric was so slippery I couldn’t get an even turn. Then I remembered this tip I had picked up.

First I cut the shirt to desired length plus 1/2″.

Next I turned up 1/4″ and stitched very close to the fold.

Here is what that will look like. Sew the whole hem line.

Now it’s time for the second pass. Turn up another 1/4″ . This pass will be sewn on the other side of the 1/4″ turn. Ideally you will sew directly over your previous stitching.

Keep turning a bit at a time. you may not be able to work more than an inch or two at a time. It should look flat as you are sewing.

This shirt had a fairly dramatic curve. I used a pin to hold it in place as I sewed. You could also use a Sewing Awl. This lets you hold hold things flat very close to the needle without risking injury. It also allows you a better view of your work.