DriversRecommendedOutdated drivers can make a good PC feel brokenScan driver issues before chasing fixes manually.Scan NowOctober DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsPC HealthRecommendedCrashes, freezes, slowdowns? Check your PC nowSpot repairable issues before they interrupt work.Check PC×
Skip to content
ThatPainter
knit fabric

How to Make a T-Shirt Hem

A stretch twin needle makes the familiar double-line T-shirt hem, but a tested zigzag or suitable stretch stitch can work when a twin needle is not an option.

By ThatPainter Team 2 min read
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

ThatPainter is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn More

For the familiar double-line finish on a knit T-shirt, use a stretch twin needle if your sewing machine supports one. Sew with the fabric relaxed, not stretched, and test your settings on a scrap first. If a twin needle is unsuitable for your machine or fabric, a narrow zigzag or suitable stretch stitch is a practical alternative.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Choose a stitch for the finish you want

Method Appearance Stretch and setup
Stretch twin needle Two parallel lines on the outside; a zigzag forms on the reverse. Provides some stretch. Check that your machine accommodates a twin needle and follow its manual for threading, stitch choice and needle clearance.
Narrow zigzag or suitable stretch stitch A single visible line. A useful alternative when a twin needle is unavailable or unsuitable. Test that the seam stretches enough for the garment.
Machine blind hem Most stitching is less visible from the outside. Requires the machine’s blind-hem stitch and careful setup. Keep the zigzag bite narrow enough not to hinder stretch.

How to sew the hem

  1. Set the finished length and fold

    Decide how long the shirt should be, then turn the lower edge up to your chosen hem depth and press the fold. A single fold can reduce bulk; folding a casual T-shirt hem twice may make it feel stiff.

    Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
  2. Keep the fold in place

    Pin or baste the hem if needed, especially if the knit is slippery or its edge rolls. Pressing the fold can also help hold it evenly as you sew.

    #1 Best Overall
    SCHMETZ Twin (130/705 H ZWI BR) Sewing Machine Needles - Carded - Assortment
    • Twin (130/705 H ZWI) Sewing Machine Needles
    • Manufactured by SCHMETZ
    • Assortment
    • Carded
    • 3 Needles
  3. Set up a twin needle only if your machine allows it

    Choose a stretch twin needle suited to the fabric and machine. SCHMETZ lists stretch twin needles in sizes 2.5/NM 75 and 4.0/NM 75 for fabrics including jersey and cotton knit. Thread both needles as the owner’s manual directs. Use only a stitch and needle position permitted by that manual, then turn the handwheel by hand to check that the needles clear the presser foot and needle plate before sewing. Stitch-width limits are model-specific: for example, the cited Elna manual limits non-straight stitches to 3 mm or less, which should not be treated as a setting for other machines.

  4. Test the fabric and settings

    Sew on a scrap of the same knit, or a concealed section, before hemming the garment. Check the result on both sides and gently stretch the seam to see whether it gives enough. Guide the fabric without pulling it; stretching the knit as it feeds can distort the hem.

    Rank #2
    6Pack Twin Needle Double Needle with 2 PCS 9 Groove Pintuck Presser Foot 3 Size 2/90 3/90 4/90 by HOWRIN
    • Package Includes: 6 PCS Twin Needles 2.0/ 90, 3.0/ 90, 4.0/ 90, each size has 2pieces, 2 PCS 9 Groove Pintuck Presser Foot.And the sizes are clearly marked on the blue area.
    • Easy to Collect: these twin double needles come with a small plastic durable box which allows you to conveniently collect and store twin needles
    • Durable Materials: the double needles of these machines are made of stainless steel and plastic, with good quality, durability and long service life
    • Delicate Design: each double-needle fitted with 2 needles can be easily threaded 2 same or different decorative lines to simultaneously stitch in a straight or pattern way
    • Wide Application: these twin needles function as good accessories for sewing machines, compatible with most kinds of sewing machines,Easy to thread, straight lines and perfect fit.
  5. Sew around the hem and inspect it

    Sew slowly around the folded edge, keeping the fabric relaxed and the fold even. Inspect the outside, reverse and seam stretch. Trim excess fabric carefully if needed.

    Free tools Windows power users keep installed

    One-click scans. No signup required.

    Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
  6. Switch methods if the seam or setup is unsuitable

    If you cannot safely use a twin needle, try a narrow zigzag or suitable stretch stitch and test its give before sewing the shirt. For a less visible finish, use a machine blind hem if your machine has the appropriate stitch; keep its zigzag bite narrow so the hem can still stretch.

    Rank #3
    Sale
    3 Size Sewing Machine Twin Needles Double Twin Stretch Needles Pins for Household Sewing Machine,3 Sizes Mixed 2.0/90, 3.0/90, 4.0/90
    • Package Includes - 3 x Twin Needles 2.0/ 90, 3.0/ 90, 4.0/ 90, the sizes are clearly marked on the blue area.
    • Durable Material - These machine twin needles are made of stainless steel and plastic with good quality, they are durable and sturdy for a long life time.
    • Unique Design - Each double-needle fitted with 2 needles can be easily threaded 2 same or different decorative lines to simultaneously stitch in a straight or pattern way,making it more beautiful.
    • Wide Application - An excellent universal sewing machine accessory for most sewing machines. Such as:for Singer, Brother, Janome,Butterfly,Bernina, Pfaff, Elna, Jaguar, Quilting Club, Husqvarna and etc.
    • After Sales Service: If you have any questions about our product including you don't like our product,please contact us and we will solve the problem for you.Have a nice day.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

What the twin-needle stitches do

The two upper threads make parallel rows on the outside of the shirt. On the reverse, the bobbin thread connects them in a zigzag, which lets the hem stretch. The visible double row is why this method is commonly used for knit T-shirt hems, but the correct needle position and stitch settings depend on the machine.

Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 1
SCHMETZ Twin (130/705 H ZWI BR) Sewing Machine Needles - Carded - Assortment
SCHMETZ Twin (130/705 H ZWI BR) Sewing Machine Needles - Carded - Assortment
Twin (130/705 H ZWI) Sewing Machine Needles; Manufactured by SCHMETZ; Assortment; Carded; 3 Needles
$11.85
Bestseller No. 4
SCHMETZ Twin Stretch Machine Needle Size 2.5/75 1ct, Original Version, 1 Pack
SCHMETZ Twin Stretch Machine Needle Size 2.5/75 1ct, Original Version, 1 Pack
Constructed to provide trouble free sewing; Size 2.5/75; 1 per package; Package dimensions : 1.1 inches (H) x 4.2 inches (L) x 2.3 inches (W)
$8.05
Bestseller No. 5
Rank #4
SCHMETZ Twin Stretch Machine Needle Size 2.5/75 1ct, Original Version, 1 Pack
  • Constructed to provide trouble free sewing
  • Size 2.5/75
  • 1 per package
  • Package dimensions : 1.1 inches (H) x 4.2 inches (L) x 2.3 inches (W)

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

More from the Paint Desk

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.