*
I am making dresses for a show choir, and they want the ripple edge hem style that you make using fishline. I have a book showing me how to do this for bridal veils, but I wondered if anyone with some real life experience could offer me some tips.
Thanks!
Threads Recommended Products
Style Arc, Hendrix Coat
Threads receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
The Hendrix coat sewing pattern from Style Arc is an unlined, panelled design with long two-piece sleeves, a button or snap front, and optional top-stitching. It features binding along the neck, hem, and sleeves, along with angled patch pockets and dropped shoulders. Recommended fabrics include wool, linen, faux fur, or velvet, with fabric estimates and trim details provided for sizes 4-30.
Mettler Seraflex
Threads receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Mettler Seraflex Elastic Thread is a 50wt thread designed for superior stretch and recovery, making it ideal for various fabrics and garments. It is easy to handle and sew, ensuring consistent, high-quality stitching for any project. Perfect for garments, quilts, and more, this thread delivers reliable results every time.
Vogue 1642
Threads receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Pattern A has pleated patch pockets with flaps. Pattern B has side seam zippers. This Vogue sewing pattern kit was designed and printed in the United States and comes with sewing templates, instructions, fabric recommendations, pattern pieces, and sizing guides for (2) shirts and (1) pair of pants. Women's clothing patterns can be made to fit sizes 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14.
Know Me 2064 Vest and Jacket
Threads receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Know Me patterns offer stylish and versatile designs, including the ME2064 rain jacket, which combines a cropped jacket and a vest that can be worn together or separately. The boxy-fit jacket features a hood, snap closure, and multiple pockets, while the vest has a zippered front and cargo pockets. This sewing kit includes templates, fabric recommendations, and instructions for sizes 44-52, proudly made in the USA.
Quilts on an English Farm by Kaffe Fassett
Threads receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
San Francisco-born artist Kaffe Fassett is a celebrated name in the quilting world. His work has been commissioned by the British monarchy, American fashion designers, and the Royal Shakespeare Company. He has authored numerous bestsellers, including Quilts in Italy, Quilts by the Sea, and Quilts in an English Village.
Replies
*
Carrie,
Hi! I have done this technique on synthetic organza or tulle with the serger. I'd suggest a 3 thread serger narrow hem stitch with "invisible thread" at least in the lower looper. Regular thread or wooly nylon in the upper, regular thread or invisible in the needle.
You must first start with a long, about 12" tail of the fishline, make the narrow hem over it for awhile. Then you can add the fabric underneath the fishline, trimming off a little if you like. You will get the best curls if the fabric is bias on a woven fabric.
You may wish to stretch the fabric along as you hem the fishline into the edge. And/or you can stretch the fabric hem over the fishline (gently) after you are done. If you over stretch it, it can fold up on itself and actually look less full and curly than if you don't, so try some test samples.
At the end of stitching the hem, remember to leave another long fishline tail.
You may wish to do the fishline hems before adding the skirts to the bodices, or finishing them on top with elastic or whatever, so you can adjust the final length from the top. Good luck!
This post is archived.