Table Linen Hemming

The way the edges of table linen is sewn varies.  A few of the standard methods are described below.

Stitching

Table Linen can be sewn with either a chain or a lock stitch.  Chain stitching is easier and hence less expensive than lock stitching.   Chain stitching pulls out of the fabric easier than a lock stitch however and hence is not as durable.

Typical hem lock stitch

Hem Style

The edge of table linen can be either folded over as shown above, or edged with stitching commonly called a pearl stitch.

Usually personal preference determines the choice, however there are some benefits to each style.  Most people prefer the look of the folded hem.  However, by folding the hem you have two layers of fabric at the edge versus one in the middle.  The edge of the linen takes longer to dry and iron than the middle.  The raised edges also catch and tear easier.

When the edges are folded over, the corners need to be mitered or else you actually have four layers or more of fabric at the corners.  This results in a bump at the corners which will wear and become discolored faster than the rest of the linen.  Checking for mitered corners is one way to tell the quality of the linen you are buying.  Mitering the corners is an extra step in the process, and hence makes the linen slightly more expensive.

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