How to Sew a Hem on a Towel

How to Sew a Hem on a Towel
Published: Jun 5, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

Trim off any fraying that has already occurred before you begin to hem, as the loose threads in the fray get tangled in the sewing machine.

Things You Will Need

  • Straight pins
  • Sewing machine and thread
  • Scissors
  1. Turn the edge of the towel in 1/4 inch. Turn in a second time, by 1/4 inch, trapping the 1/4 inch of raw edge on the inside of the fold.

  2. Pin the fold in place. Place the pins perpendicular to the hem so your machine can stitch over the pins.

  3. Stitch along the fold with a zig-zag stitch. Catch the top of the hem fold in the bottom point of the stitch and stitch through the fabric above the fold with top point of the stitch. A zig-zag stitch holds the hem flush to the towel. Begin and end the stitching with a backstitch so the thread doesn't pull loose.

  4. Clip the threads once hemming is complete. Fold and hem the remaining sides of the towel, if necessary.

The Drip Cap

  • Most towels are made of terrycloth or other highly absorbent materials.
  • Begin and end the stitching with a backstitch so the thread doesn't pull loose.

Photo Credits

Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images

Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images

Jenny Harrington

Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. Her published articles have appeared in various print and online publications. Previously, she owned her own business, selling handmade items online, wholesale and at crafts fairs.…

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