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From: fergy
Date: 07-31-2004, 08:15 AM (1 of 6)
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Hi all, I'm a dealer in vintage clothing. I just purchased a large number of 60/70s floor length dresses, some of which have damaged or stained skirts, or just that I want to shorten them because I know I can sell them as mini - or regualr length dresses. I would love to learn how to hem these myself (being very much of a do-it-your-selfer) but I don't know if I'll have time to learn. I consider myself a decent good hand-sewer - I often have to mend a split seam or repair a bit of hem and have done a lot of detailed embroidery work (something different, I know) One option I'm considering is to hire someone to cut these dresses down and sew the hems for me, but I'm afraid it would cut too much into my profits. Any idea what I should expect for such a service? Note: most of the dresses are poly knit and wouldn't require anything fancy. Or would this something I could do myself, having a decent knowledge of hand-sewing but absolutely no experience in hemming? I certainly would love to learn! Thanks! -Linda |
User: fergy
Member since: 07-31-2004 Total posts: 3 |
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 07-31-2004, 12:39 PM (2 of 6)
If they are poly -knit, they probably will not ravel.. So you need to go to the library and look in a good sewing book at the hemming directions.. for hand stitching.. There are several variations of hand stitched hems that work better than others.. Something that locks the thread with each stitch is best.. So, if you snag the hem the whole thing doesn't pull out at once.. But , also with a knit , you cannot pull your thread too tight .. Read up on the ones you find.. Look in a book with lots of illustrations..
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022 
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From: fergy
Date: 08-03-2004, 04:43 PM (3 of 6)
Thanks for the advice. Gosh, I am in for a lot of work but I hope it's rewarding!  -Linda |
User: fergy
Member since: 07-31-2004 Total posts: 3 |
From: MartySews
Date: 08-05-2004, 11:53 PM (4 of 6)
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If they are knits, have you thought about using a serger for hemming? You can use a rolled hem, a coverlock, or blind hem. I would recommend that than trying to hem yardages of fabric by hand. Carol Laflin Ahles book on "Fine Machine Sewing" is an excellent resource for hems. Also any book by Claire B Shaeffer. Happy Stitching! Marty 
It takes one moment to change a life.
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User: MartySews
Member since: 02-23-2003 Total posts: 504 
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From: fergy
Date: 08-06-2004, 09:12 AM (5 of 6)
We-el, I'd thought about it, but I've heard there's quite a learning curve when trying to use a serger. I can't even use a regular machine well!  Plus it means I'd have to buy a serger. I understand they're quite expensive... But yes, I do think that with all the work I have to do, it might make sense to go this route. Thanks for the advice... I will certainly look into it! Cheers, Linda |
User: fergy
Member since: 07-31-2004 Total posts: 3 |
From: MartySews
Date: 08-06-2004, 12:58 PM (6 of 6)
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If there is an ASG chapter in your area, perhaps one of the chapter members will help you or refer you to a resource. Our guild will often help someone who needs a short-term assistance. Good luck. Happy Stitching! Marty
It takes one moment to change a life.
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User: MartySews
Member since: 02-23-2003 Total posts: 504
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