Karen's Doula Services

What is Hemstitching?

A Hemstitching machine can do only one thing: Punch holes and sew around them. You cannot even run a straight stitch on one. It is a commercial sewing machine made for only one function. The machines were originally used on linens or fine clothing. Now they are used mainly for crocheting beautiful lace on baby blankets without the dangerous task of punching holes as you go. Many people still try to just punch the hook through the fabric, or some use an ice pick to make the holes. Ouch!

A Hemstitching machine is a sewing machine that Singer quit making about 50 years ago. There are several models available. Some of them just have one needle and bobbin like regular machines and you sew down one side while the machine punches holes, then you turn your fabric around and sew down the other side matching the holes as you go. EEK!! Other models have two needles and two bobbins that work in a zigzag motion to sew the holes open. Of course, the two needled machines are much easier to work with and save a lot of time since you only have to go around once.

There is a great website, hemstitchers.com, where you can see several models and several other brands besides Singer. They also sell hemstitchers. I have never known anyone who has bought from them, so I can't tell you much. I would love to hear from anyone about your experience!

Hemstitching is also the word used to describe the lace that is delicately crocheted around the blankets or linens. There are any number of patterns available in old edging books. I have gotten many of them from Ebay. I also have patterns available on my website for anyone to use. You can find pattern books at craft stores everywhere, and a lot of people sell their patterns. Once you learn the basic steps, it is so easy to make up your own. Try it! If you don't like what you see, you can always take it out and try something else.