How to Use a Rolled Hem Presser Foot
Using a rolled hem presser foot can give your sewing projects a neat and professional finish. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Prepare Your Sewing Machine
- Turn off the machine: Before making any changes to the presser foot, always turn off your sewing machine and unplug it if possible. This is a safety precaution.
- Remove the current presser foot: Loosen the screw that holds the presser foot in place and carefully remove the standard presser foot. Set it aside in a safe place.
2. Install the Rolled Hem Presser Foot
- Identify the correct foot: Make sure you have the correct rolled hem presser foot for your sewing machine model. Some machines may require specific types of presser feet.
- Attach the foot: Align the shank of the rolled hem presser foot with the presser foot holder on your sewing machine. Slide it into place and tighten the screw to secure the foot.

3. Adjust Sewing Machine Settings
- Stitch length: Set the stitch length to a short setting. Typically, a stitch length of around 1.5 to 2 millimeters is suitable for a rolled hem. This short stitch helps to create a tight and neat rolled edge.
- Thread tension: Check and adjust the thread tension if necessary. For a rolled hem, you may need to slightly reduce the tension to prevent the fabric from puckering. Test the tension on a scrap piece of fabric before starting on your actual project.
4. Prepare the Fabric
- Cut the fabric edge: Trim the edge of the fabric to be hemmed to a straight and even line. A width of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch is a good starting point for the fabric to be rolled.
- Press the fabric: Use an iron to press the fabric along the edge to be hemmed. This will make it easier to feed the fabric through the presser foot and create a neater hem.
5. Sew the Rolled Hem
- Position the fabric: Place the fabric under the presser foot with the edge to be hemmed aligned along the left side of the foot. Some rolled hem presser feet have a guide or groove that the fabric should follow.
- Start sewing: Slowly lower the presser foot and start sewing. As you sew, the presser foot will automatically roll the fabric edge under and stitch it in place.

- Guide the fabric: Use your hands to gently guide the fabric through the presser foot. Keep the fabric moving smoothly and evenly to ensure a consistent rolled hem.
- Handle corners and curves: When sewing around corners or curves, slow down and pivot the fabric as needed. You may need to adjust the position of the fabric slightly to maintain the rolled hem.
6. Finish the Hem
- Backstitch: At the end of the hem, backstitch a few stitches to secure the thread. This will prevent the hem from unraveling.
- Trim the threads: Use a pair of scissors or a thread cutter to trim the excess threads. Be careful not to cut the fabric or the stitches.
With practice, using a rolled hem presser foot can become second nature and add a professional touch to your sewing projects.