How to Remove Iron-On Hemming Tape

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Sometimes your pants or skirt is too long and needs a hem. Iron-on hemming tape is an alternative to needle and thread. The fusible adhesive binds fabric together when you apply heat to the fabric. You can find hemming tape at your local sewing or fabric supply store. Applying the tape requires minimal effort and saves time. Removing it, however, may take several attempts.

Plug-in your iron and adjust it to a medium heat setting.

Lay a paper towel between the taped fabric and the iron so the adhesive doesn't stick to the iron. Place the iron on the paper towel and gently move it in a backward and forward motion across the hem for 10 to 15 seconds.

Quickly pull the fabric apart while the adhesive is still warm and before the tape re-sticks to the garment.

Remove the remaining adhesive. Place a paper towel, newspaper or paper bag directly on the glue and lay the iron on it for 5 to 10 seconds and scrape the glue off the fabric with a butter knife. Soak a cotton ball in acetone and rub it over the remaining adhesive.