How do you make a gathered hem?

Question

I am making an apron and the top hem has a gathered hem. Do I hand sew it or how would I use the sewing machine on this? If so, how do I do that?

Answer 1

Put machine on baste or largest stitch.

Slowly stitch along the entire line you want to gather . Twice, in case one thread breaks.

Cut the thread leaving enough to use to pull with your hand.

Gently pull the thread and push the gathers into the places you want them.

After you have them where you want them, stitch them in place.
viola!

Answer 2

I like Nancy K's instructions, and here is an alternate with pics to boot on New Mexico U's website- idea #5:

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IDEA 5. Zig-zag Over Thread

For secure gathering that won't break, zig-zag stitch over a length of the same thread. Use especially for long areas which are gathered or ruffled.

a. Set machine for a medium stitch width and a medium stitch length. With the machine threaded, pull a length of upper and bobbin thread toward you, until it covers the distance to be gathered. Do not cut thread.

b. Bring thread back under the presser foot and hold a loop of this thread behind foot. Lay thread over wrong side of fabric to be gathered, within the 5/8" seam allowance.

c. Zig-zag stitch over thread, being careful not to catch the thread in the stitching.

d. Pull threads to gather fabric.

Answer 3

you can take a needle and thread,put a big knot in the end of the thread, run the needle back and forth through the material making a stright line across the top.
when you get to the end lightly pull the material slowly back toward the knot making a gather.
tie off the other end of the knot and then use the machine and run a stich across the material to hold it in place. this way gives you a little more control over how much gather you put in it. good luck with this project.

Answer 4

They used to make an attachment for doing this, years ago I sold Sewing machine and could do it- but that was long ago- find out if an attachment is available.