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Free Directions to Sew a Custom Tablecloth

By Debbie Colgrove, About.com

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Baby Hems

Hemming Options

Hemming Options

Debbie Colgrove, Licensed to About.com
Hemming a Square or Rectangle Tablecloth
  • To sew a baby hem on the edges of a table cloth, press under 1/4" to the wrong side of the fabric.
    Tip: Sew a 1/4" from the edge and use the stitching line as a guide for turning under the edge without having to measure as you press.
  • Turn under again so that the raw edge is enclosed.
  • Miter the corners. (Information on how to miter corners)
  • Use a straight stitch, stitching close to the loose folded edge to hold the hem in place.
    Tip If you use a solid color fabric, consider using a decorative stitch and contrasting thread to sew the hem in place.
Hemming a Round or Oval Tablecloth
  • Sew a basting stitch 1/4" from the edge.
  • Press the edge toward the wrong side using the stitching line as a guide.
  • Press under again to enclose the raw edge.
  • Use the basting stitches to ease in the fullness and make the hem fit the fabric so that the hem will lay flat and smooth.
  • Use a straight stitch, stitching close to the loose folded edge to hold the hem in place.
Tip:A great way to keep the hem stitching straight is to use a guide and needle position. More Information: Guide to Understanding Sewing Machine Needle Position and How to Sew a Straight Seam and Sewing Machine Seam Guides

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