Some of these require a sewing machine (or a friend who has one), while others need only a few basic supplies to create an edge by hand. Choose the method that works best for the embroidery project you’re working on. Before edge-finishing your embroidery fabric, remember to cut away the selvage from the fabric. This self-hemmed fabric edge is thicker and can cause the embroidery hoop to not fit well, and the selvage has very little give. Select the basic zigzag stitch on your machine and adjust it so that it is slightly wider than the default setting for the best results. Narrow zigzag settings won’t secure enough of the warp and weft threads and fraying could still occur. You can also overcast the fabric edges using an overlock stitch on your serger. Whichever method you choose, be sure that the stitch covers the raw edges of the fabric. The stitching needs to enclose the fibers along each side of the fabric to prevent fraying. Some fraying will still occur, but it will be minimized by using this type of scissors known as pinking shears. In addition to preventing fraying, it looks pretty too, which means you’ll want to leave this finish in place on your embroidery. In fact, you could use a different technique to protect the fabric edge while you work, and then add this at the end. Choose your favorite hemming method either by hand using the hemstitch or rolled hem or by machine using a double-folded hem, serging the edges, etc. For a fast finish, try iron-on or press-on tapes designed for hemming without sewing. This method will also save you time when the project has been completed, by not having to work the hem later. Single- or double-fold bias binding tape can be pre-purchased in three-yard packages, or you can make your own. This binding can easily be removed using a seam ripper after the embroidery has been completed. Or leave it in place for a permanent finish that is bound, similar to a quilt. Use artist’s tape, folding it around the edge. Masking tape will also work, but it isn’t ideal. It’s best to use this method only on embroidery projects that will have the edges trimmed away later. The tape can be difficult to remove from fabric and can leave a residue. This helpful supply can be used on any embroidery fabric and dries clear. These are both machine washable and dry cleanable although in many cases this temporary edge finish will be trimmed away. On dark or silky fabrics, the seam sealant may be noticeable after it dries, so be sure to check in an inconspicuous area before using it if the product will not be trimmed after completing the project.
