Faced hem

Definition

A faced hem is a finishing technique used in garment construction where a separate piece of fabric is sewn to the raw edge of a hem to provide a clean, polished look. This technique enhances the garment's durability and aesthetic appeal, ensuring that the hemline looks neat and professional. Faced hems are particularly useful for fabrics that tend to fray or where a more structured finish is desired.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Faced hems can be made from the same fabric as the garment or a contrasting fabric for added design interest.
2. This technique is particularly effective for heavier fabrics that require more structure to maintain their shape.
3. When sewing a faced hem, it’s important to ensure that the facing is cut accurately and aligns perfectly with the garment edge.
4. Faced hems can also be found in formal wear, ensuring a sleek finish that complements tailored designs.
5. Properly constructed faced hems help prevent stretching and distortion at the hemline, contributing to the overall fit of the garment.

Review Questions

• How does a faced hem improve both the durability and aesthetic appeal of a garment?
  • A faced hem enhances durability by preventing fraying at the raw edges and providing added support to the hemline. Aesthetically, it creates a polished and professional finish, giving garments a high-quality look. By using a separate fabric piece for facing, designers can also introduce contrasting colors or textures that elevate the overall design.
• In what scenarios would using a faced hem be more advantageous than other hemming techniques?
  • Using a faced hem is more advantageous when working with heavier or structured fabrics that need extra support to maintain their shape. It’s also beneficial for garments intended for formal occasions where a clean and refined appearance is necessary. In cases where fraying is a concern, faced hems provide a reliable solution to achieve neat edges without compromising on durability.
• Evaluate how faced hems can influence design decisions in costume design and construction.
  • Faced hems significantly influence design decisions by allowing costume designers to incorporate varying fabric weights and textures while ensuring structural integrity. This technique provides flexibility in design, enabling creative freedom through color choices and patterns for the facing. Additionally, faced hems offer practical solutions for maintaining garment shape during movement, which is crucial in costume design for performances, thus marrying functionality with artistic expression.

Related terms

hem: The finished edge of a piece of fabric, typically at the bottom of garments, which prevents fraying and can be decorative.

interfacing: A textile used to reinforce or support the structure of the fabric, often applied to areas like collars, cuffs, and hems.

bias tape: A strip of fabric cut on the bias, used to finish edges or seams, often creating a decorative effect.