How to Sew a Basic Blind Stitch

A blind stitch hem is a useful sewing technique for finishing the hemlines of skirts and trousers. The blind hem makes it so there is no unfinished edges show on the inside of the garment, creating an easy, durable and tailored look for the finished work. The blind hem is also comparable to a hand stitching of the hem. A simple fold technique and a sewing machine are all that is needed.

1.  Set the sewing machine to a straight stitch position. If there is a blind hem setting, set for the desired width of the hem stitch.
2.  Select the stitch length that is optimum for the garment being sewn. A longer stitch will be less conspicuous and a shorter stitch will be more durable.
3.  Fold up about a 3/8 inch seam allowance along the bottom of the garment. Press to set the fold.
4.  Turn the hem approximately another 3/8 to 5/8 inch, or to desired depth of the hem. Press again to set.
5.  Fold the hem back so it faces the right side of garment, leaving about a 1/4 inch allowance that extends from the bottom.
6. Begin to sew at the meeting of the folds, catching a slight tick at the 'V' where the stitching will catch the garment. The hem part of the garment will contain the straight stitching.
7. Unfold the hem and inspect.

Renee Shelton.