Altering sequined fabric is a challenge, whether you're sewing together a handcrafted sequin dress or hemming a purchased one. Sequined fabric typically has sequins stitched to a base fabric. The base fabric will vary in style, as will the quality and design of the sequins. Whether your dress is slender and straight or somewhat fuller, understanding how to hem a sequined dress will help you achieve a perfect fit and save money on costly alterations.
Step 1
Mark the desired hem length on your sequin dress using a fabric pencil or chalk. If needed, cut away excess fabric leaving a 1-inch allowance below the marked hem.
Step 2
Measure the width of the dress to determine the length of the hem facing. Add 1-inch to this measurement. Cut a 3-inch wide bias strip, or diagonal strip, of coordinating fabric using a rotary cutter, mat and ruler.
Step 3
Sew the bias facing along the marked hem with a 1-inch seam allowance. Trim the allowance to 1/2-inch. Fold the edge of the facing up to meet the seam and carefully press, so as not to touch the sequined fabric, only the bias facing.
Step 4
Bring the folded edge up to meet the sequined fabric, creating a folded 1-inch wide hem from the bias strip. Pin carefully between the sequins and stitch into place by hand with small stitches.
References
Writer Bio
With a master's degree in art history from the University of Missouri-Columbia, Michelle Powell-Smith has been writing professionally for more than a decade. An avid knitter and mother of four, she has written extensively on a wide variety of subjects, including education, test preparation, parenting, crafts and fashion.
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