Double or Single Hems

We have a very extensive line of Polyester and Cotton Lace yardage patterns to choose from. When you are sewing Lace Curtains or Curtains of any fabric you will have to decide whether to use single or double hems. Before we do that let’s talk about how those two types of hems are constructed because one or the other is used for both the sides of the lace curtain panels and on the bottom. Side hems are normally 1 or 1 ½ inches and bottom hems are 2,3 or 4 inches in width. Before cutting the lace fabric you have to decide on the size you will use because you have to add to the finished length an amount sufficient to make the hem.

Double 4 inch Hem

A double hem is constructed by folding the bottom 4”, or whatever, toward the wrong side, pressing on the fold line and then folding it again to double the fold.

Single 4 inch Hem

A single hem is constructed by folding up the bottom for a distance of 4 ½ or 5 inches and iron in the fold. You then fold the top part inside the fold 1 or 1 ½ inches and iron it in. It is finished by sewing across the top.

Why use a single or double hem

The only advantage to a single hem is that you save about 3 inches of fabric. A lot of production workrooms do so to save that small amount because, for them, it can save them money when sewing a large amount of curtains.

For a finished lace curtain that you will be proud of you should consider using a double hem. There are two very important advantages when using a double hem. The first is especially important when making lace curtains. A full double hem gives the curtain added weight and body which causes the lace curtain tiers and panels to hang in gathers much more attractively. The second reason is just as important. A double hem becomes very important in a see through material like lace. In a single hem the small folded down part becomes very visible and does not give a finished look.

The rod pocket and ruffle hem at the top is not as important to be double because the cut edge will end up behind the rod where it cannot be seen. You still may want to consider a double hem because if you do so then the rod can be inserted in back of the double layer and cannot be seen as well.

See fuller and more complete Curtain Sewing Instructions here.  Please give us a call at 1-855-GR8-LACE (478-5223) if you have any questions and we would be happy to discuss the solutions with you.

We wish you the best of luck in your decorating endeavors.

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