The Sewing Place

What to use to stabilise knit hems?

sewingj

What to use to stabilise knit hems?
« on: November 25, 2019, 14:18:04 PM »
Following a recommendation from someone here I use Pellon Knit-N-Stable stretch fusible seam tape to stabilise jersey before turning up a hem.  It is good, but is 1 inch wide.  I`ve seen reference to 1/2 tape on American websites but can`t find any here.
What do others use?  I`d prefer fusible

(I don't have an overlocker)
« Last Edit: November 25, 2019, 14:25:50 PM by sewingj »

BrendaP

Re: What to use to stabilise knit hems?
« Reply #1 on: November 25, 2019, 14:48:20 PM »
Brenda.  My machines are: Corona, a 1953 Singer 201K-3, Caroline, a 1940 Singer 201K-3, Thirza, 1949 Singer 221K, Azilia, 1957 Singer 201K-MK2 and Vera, a Husqvarna 350 SewEasy about 20 years old. Also Bernina 1150 overlocker and Elna 444 Coverstitcher.
http://paternoster.orpheusweb.co.

Ellabella

Re: What to use to stabilise knit hems?
« Reply #2 on: November 25, 2019, 15:43:07 PM »
I’ve recently tried Lite Steam a Seam tape and found it very useful.

Sorry I can’t do links on my tablet but it’s on EBay.

It’s half an inch wide. I stick it on at the bottom of the fabric then press the hem up with the tape still attached, then remove the tape and press it gently to fix it. I’ve had no problem with cover stitching the hems. I get a nice crisp edge.

I do know I could buy my own fusible and cut strips but as I get older anything that makes the job quicker and easier gets my vote.

 

Greybird

Re: What to use to stabilise knit hems?
« Reply #3 on: November 25, 2019, 16:22:42 PM »
I always use Wondertape which is double-sided sticky and washes away. It's narrow and I stick it along the edge, peel off the backing strip and then turn it up. This makes it stable enough to do the hem as normal. Brilliant stuff.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Collins-Wash-Away-Wonder-Tape/192800193563?hash=item2ce3c97c1b:g:a-YAAOSwAvJW-sgj

Nevis5

Re: What to use to stabilise knit hems?
« Reply #4 on: November 26, 2019, 08:41:47 AM »
I'm a big Wondertape fan too.  Magical stuff! 

For very awkward jersey hems, I sometimes use strips of fusible interfacing instead (I cut my own), if the fabric is heavy enough to take it.