Bind the edges of sheer fabrics easily with this fast technique.
Sheer fabrics are lightweight and slippery by nature, so it’s no surprise that many sewers avoid them. However, the right tools and techniques can make sewing sheer fabrics a pleasure.
This Threads Essential Techniques video shows author and teacher Lyla Messinger’s technique for finishing sheer fabric edges, which she shared in “Sheer Perfection,” Threads #172 (April/May 2014). Watch as we demonstrate Lyla’s clever and simple method for reinforcing a sheer garment edge with a fused bias strip.
Supplies
- Bias fabric strip 1-7/8 inches wide by the length of the edge to be finished, plus 1-1/4 inches.
- Double-sided fusible web (We used Design Plus Ultra-Soft Double-Sided Fusible Web from LJDesignsOnline.com.)
Do you have tips or tricks for reinforcing sheer edges? If so, please share by leaving a comment.
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awesome tip! Thanks
I like this technique. I would, however, prefer to bind off from the back to the front, and not the other way around. As I also bind quilts in this manner, I like to see where the binding will end up, and catch all of it when I stitch, and not lose any area by doing it in the other direction. Just my two bits on this binding technique.
I use a tiny blind hem stitch to secure the binding edges.
What is the best method to maintain the fluidity of the edge? This seems like it would be too stiff for a flowy filmy skirt hem.
Thanks, this looks like a good way to handle awkward fabrics and using bias would work on curves.
To Sunspot, I've always used the following method which is about as flexible as I've seen. 1- Stitch along the hemline about 1/8" longer than you want it. This stabilises the fabric so it wont stretch on the bias. 2- fold the hem up to the inside along the stitching (press if it helps) and stitch about 1/16" from the fold. 3- Trim the hem off as close as you can next to the 2nd stitching line. 4- fold the hem up the 1/8" and stitch again on top of the second line. It's worked on any fabric I've tried.
Thank you so much - this is a wonderful tip - I look forward to using this!
Great tip. I especially like the use of the pointer to support the commentary. Such a small thing, but so very helpful.
Rolled hem on the serger? I live for a beautiful lettuce edge; just sayin'...
I like the video- very informative. I did NOT like having to watch the very loud ad preceding the video. I won't view any more videos on this site.
This seems like a very time consuming, overly complex way to do it.There are other ways.Yes,this might render the edge too stiff. Doing all this work on it just makes it stiffer.