Replies

1. 
   Teaf5 | Feb 10, 2011 07:17pm | #1

   jeans hem

   Actually, that ruffly look is not intended; it's distortion caused by a very heavy presser foot tension.  If you like the look, you can replicate it by making the doubled hem but not pressing it or pinning it tightly.  Then topstitch the hem on the right side of the fabric.  

   The layer on the bottom gets slightly bunched as it is grabbed by the feeddogs, while the top layer glides smoothly under the presser foot; the difference between these tensions creates that slight twist (that we're always trying to avoid in all other hems!)

   The distortion won't show up until you've washed and dried the denim--without pressing the hem.  If you want to add a little highlighting to replicate that well-washed look, you can lightly rub the whole hem area with a fine sandpaper or emery board before laundering.

1. 
   genevieve | Feb 12, 2011 09:51pm | #2

   jeans edge

   Thank you Teaf5, as you say, it's an effect I would be horrified to have on any other garment.  Glad to know how to deliberately do it on the next denim outfit.  Thank you. Best wishes  genevieve.