Tarp edges

**Rynomcavoy** · 09-17-2016, 15:57

Is there a benefit to using a rolled hem around the edge of a tarp rather than a simple fold? I mean, if the hem will end up facing the inside, is the increased difficulty of the rolled hem worth the look? I'd rather go simple with the fold and don't care that much about looks.

**Junebugdawn** · 09-17-2016, 16:02

I'm not exactly sure what you are asking. A rolled hem isn't difficult. You fold over the fabric, then fold again and sew. It makes the cut edge stay inside the hem and gives the item a finished look. Otherwise, you have the cut edge exposed. The double folding of a rolled hem also gives strength to the item, tarp in this case.

Sent from my SM-N920T using Tapatalk

**airick** · 09-17-2016, 16:07

Originally Posted by Rynomcavoy

Is there a benefit to using a rolled hem around the edge of a tarp rather than a simple fold? I mean, if the hem will end up facing the inside, is the increased difficulty of the rolled hem worth the look? I'd rather go simple with the fold and don't care that much about looks.

I agree with Junebugdawn, And I prefer a rolled hem for looks and strength. The biggest worry for me would be even if you heat seal your nylon edges they would eventually fray if not rolled over.

**johnspenn** · 09-17-2016, 16:14

Fraying would be my concern.

If you're not concerned about looks, and are confident in heat sealing the perimeter, and it is that much easier for you to do, go for it says I!

**Gallen1119** · 09-17-2016, 17:28

I think the OP is comparing a very narrow rolled hem like that made with a rolled hem foot to a wider folded, rolled hem. Basically the same thing just different width. I think strength and finished edge would .be the same. Just do whatever is easier for you. I bought a rolled hem foot and it is actually faster for me, after you conquer the learning curve of the new foot. With the specialty foot you don't have to fold and pin.

**Rynomcavoy** · 09-18-2016, 00:15

I should've reworded it, but I'm not the most knowledgable on sewing lingo. I was comparing a normal rolled hem (fold once fold again sew) to a folded hem (fold once sew).

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

**slugbait** · 09-18-2016, 10:41

If you're going to sew tie outs on the hem only (as opposed to adding a reinforcement patch) then 3 layers of tarp material would be better than two.

**Carrico** · 09-18-2016, 11:46

The edge would fray after awhile. Have you thought about trying some light weight grosgrain on the edge? No hem necessary then.https://www.makeyourgear.com/rolled-...sgrain-ribbon/

**Beeip** · 09-18-2016, 17:12

Originally Posted by Gallen1119

... after you conquer the learning curve of the new foot.

Any tips on that? The hemming foot for me just ends up creating a singly-folded hem, making the fray visible above.

**TPole** · 09-18-2016, 21:33

Originally Posted by Beeip

Any tips on that? The hemming foot for me just ends up creating a singly-folded hem, making the fray visible above.

I made a video a while back to try and help folks with this. Once you get it started the key is managing the width of fabric that enters the foot. Make a few passes on some scrap and you will get the hang of it. The narrow hem makes dealing with cat cuts much easier as well.