Hemming (DIY tool)

**Snowball** · 03-14-2015, 08:00

There are lots of different ways to do a hem. This is how I do it with one of my DIY hem tools.
In this demo video the hem is a straight line but it also works with cat-cuts as long as the radius is relative big but it is not as easy and have to be done in smaller intervals.
In reality its much faster than seen on this video.
The blue fabric is unspecified polyester for a test hammock but it works just as well on the nylon fabrics I have used for other hammocks and a Tarp.

**gunner76** · 03-14-2015, 08:26

Good video...what material did you use to make your DIY Hem tool ?

**FJRpilot** · 03-14-2015, 08:37

Nice! Looks like you have your system down.... Thanks for sharing!

**Kpi890** · 03-14-2015, 09:15

Great video! I use a similar hem rolling attachment on my machine with a rotary even foot. Jealous of those top feed dogs! Is that an industrial machine?

**Brady** · 03-14-2015, 09:27

That's pretty cool. What did you use to make the bends in your tool?

**Snowball** · 03-14-2015, 09:56

Thanks.
The hem tool is made from 0,8mm/0,03” aluminum. Easy to bent by hand/pliers. I use small strips of the same plate to keep the distance when folding it over (otherwise there would not be room for the fabric).
Folding.jpg

No, my tread injector is NOT an industrial machine. It’s an Pfaff Select 3.0
The system is called IDT and it is standard on some Pfaff household models. The IDT system is the reason I choose the model. It was recommended in a kite forum. I was making kites at the time. The IDT system is not permanent. It takes about 3 seconds to change the mode. Lift the presser foot and pull the feeder arm backwards or forward foot down and it is done.
IDT1.jpg IDT2.jpg

**Dutch** · 03-14-2015, 10:32

that is just DIY awesomeness

**Wkerber** · 03-14-2015, 11:05

Very nice! I'll have to try that sometime.

**gmcttr** · 03-14-2015, 11:18

Since you are fully prefolding the hem, it appears all the "hemmer" is doing is acting as an edge guide to help in aligning the stitch.

**Snowball** · 03-14-2015, 11:45

Originally Posted by gmcttr

Since you are fully prefolding the hem, it appears all the "hemmer" is doing is acting as an edge guide to help in aligning the stitch.

It is but it also helps to adjust the width. I only fold by eye.

I have another design in mind and with a bit of luck it can fold by itself. Time will show