Not everyone has the time, or necessarily the inclination, to hem a skirt with a needle and thread. If that includes you, you can use an iron on tape such as Wundaweb.
Hemming for the needlework klutz
Iron-on tape is a gauzy material that comes on a roll (longer) or wrapped around a card (shorter lengths). It’s a quick, easy alternative to hemming with a needle and thread. Here’s how
- Carefully unpick the existing hem of the item. You can use a seam ripper for this. See our Top Tips box below.
- Use an iron to press the original hemline out of the fabric.
- Decide on the new hem length and hold it in place using using pins (it can be easier to get a friend to help you with this step).
- If necessary, cut away any excess fabric leaving about 4cms to fold up and create a neat hem.
- Iron the new hem length into place.
- Insert the tape into the folded portion of the hem.
- Use an iron to press and seal the hem.
Top tips
A seam or stitch ripper is a small tool that can get between small stitches. They cost a couple of pounds and can be bought in sewing shops or online.
When ironing the new hem length into place and sealing the iron on tape, place a damp cloth between the fabric and the iron to prevent scorching.
If you want to remove the iron on tape, this can usually be done by placing a damp cloth over the area and applying an iron, then peeling the layers apart. Normal tumble drying shouldn’t affect it.
