How-to make a rolled (handkerchief) hem

At last I've remembered to take some photos while I'm working, and handwork too!  Here are some easy visuals to help you make those teensy rolled hems that are oh-so-necessary for period work.  Use this to hem veils, chemises, hankies and anything else that needs a clean finish.  It's easy!

Just fold over about 1/4" of the fabric.  Put the needle through a couple threads on the fold edge, then a couple threads on the fabric side just beyond the foldover.  Repeat a few times, then pull the thread up tight. The folded over bit will be completely enclosed in a little roll and you'll have a nice period edge.  This works really well on gauzy fabrics that tend to bunch up from the feeder feet on a sewing machine.

Fold over about 1/4".  Catch a couple threads on the fold edge and a couple on the fabric.  Zigzag across a few times.



Pull the thread up tight.

Finish the whole thing and amaze your friends with your hard work.