Have you ever been to a party and realized you ripped your favorite jeans? Do you not have the sewing skills to fix the gash in your pillowcase?
All you need is a hem tape, which can solve all these problems instantly. It’s the best way to improve your torn clothes or even keep the dress strap attached to your body.
However, it’s pretty challenging to find a reliable hem tape with a powerful adhesive these days. Hence, we have handpicked the seven best hem tapes on the market with the most beneficial features.
7 Best Hem Tape
There are many different types of products available in the market. However, it can be daunting for you to find the best hem tape for your clothing type.
Thus, to eliminate this uncertainty, we have provided detailed reviews on some fantastic hem tapes available.
1. Outus Fabric Fusing Tape Adhesive Hem
This commodity comes in a width of ½ inches and a length of 27 yards and two rolls. Not only can it be used in curtains, but you can also use it for hemming pillowcases without sewing.
It is a reliable and robust substitute for stitching, repairs, and crafts. Even after the fabric is washed or dry cleaned several times, the tape helps the cloth stay tightly sealed.
Moreover, you can use the robust, durable bond and the sturdy seal for hemming torn clothes, fabrics, and crafts.
You may also use this for any DIY projects without the need for any sewing skills. This product will help you to get your work done faster and save you time and energy.
Make sure you put it on a flat surface before ironing the hem tape. Damp the cloth surface after putting the tape on the hem to prepare it before ironing.
Next, place the iron on top of the cloth. Move the iron back and forth for 10 minutes, and it will complete your hemming process.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Hemming Stays wrinkle-free after washing
- Easy application
- Can be used on sheer material as well
- Cost-effective
Cons
- Might melt if you give too much heat or press for long.
- Might have trouble ripping
2. SINGER 00240 Heavy Duty Iron-On Fusing Web
Produced by a well-known brand called Singer, this tape also makes it to the top 8. It comes in a width of ¾ inches and a length of 8 yards.
Two pieces of fabric are fused with this iron-on strip to give you the perfect hem finish. This product, which is excellent for hems, comes with no fuss application.
For mending tears in fabrics and seams, use heavy-duty hem tape. It is an iron-on but no-sew hemming product used for heavier fabrics like corduroy, denim, or twill. However, make sure you steam press it carefully and adequately.
The heavy-duty iron-on tape can help fix hems, facings, trims, etc., all without the hassle of sewing. As explained above, make sure to put on an iron-friendly surface. Put the tape on the seam and steam press it. Wait for a while for the cloth to cool down before checking.
Pros
- Superior quality
- Can be used for harder or heavier fabrics.
- Stays even after several washes
- Time effective
- Hassle-free application
Cons
- Might weigh downlighter fabrics
- Lack of color options
3. Scotch Essentials Permanent Hem Bonding Strips
Are you in a hurry? Are you an amateur working with fabric? Do you want less hassle? If so, then this is the product you are looking for. This hemming tape is one of the easiest to work with.
This incredible invention does not require sewing or ironing. It comes in a pack of 30 strips that can be very convenient. With an easy application process, you can now give your clothing a tailored finish while sitting at home.
The adhesive will hold the hem even after washing or several dry cleaning sessions. It works on most fabrics.
However, make sure you pretest on delicate fabrics. You have to do that beforehand to keep your cloth from getting ruined.
Once you ensure that your clothing type is safe to use, put the tape on the hem and peel off the cover. Fold your hem and press it hard for a few minutes. Please do not use an iron press as it is not required at all.
Pros
- Easiest method
- Time-saving
- Portable
- Suitable for beginners working with fabric
- Can be used in emergencies without the need for ironing
Cons
- Not suitable for use on soft fabrics or silk clothing
- Not versatile
4. Dritz 222 STITCH WITCHERY FUSIBLE BONDING WEB
This next hemming tape consists of 100% polyamide. The Dritz 222 stitch witchery fusible bonding web comes in a width of 5/8 inches width and a length of 20 yards. It is a fusible tape that attaches two fabrics with the help of a steam iron.
For no sew-projects and quick fixes, it is a great product to use. It is better to use on light or white colored regular weighted fabrics. Once used in materials or your desired clothing, you can also wash or dry clean without worrying.
Before you start the process, preheat the iron on a low or steam setting. Place your cloth on a surface suitable for ironing. Then put the required amount of tape on the seam and unfold.
Finally, place a damp cloth before you press with your steamed iron. The adhesive tends to attach permanently to the fabric in contact with heat.
All you need to do is move the iron back and forth for a maximum of 5-10 minutes. Let the cloth cool and check after a few minutes, and voila! However, please do not touch your cloth instantly after ironing as it can be dangerous.
Pros
- Width of 5/8 inches
- Easy to use
- No needle and thread needed for hemming
- Isn’t affected by dry wash
- Can also be used to attach badges
Cons
- Tape might melt if too much heat is given
- Excess hem tape can burn when in contact with iron
5. Quilting Wash Away Tape
If you have a hard time putting your fabric together before sewing, this can be a life-changer for you. Usually, pins help to keep the two pieces of cloths together. However, using pins can also be problematic and result in unexpected injuries.
The tape has impressive stickiness that can help your fabric to stay in place. It can help to work with tricky quilting, applique placement, and positioning patch pockets. Also, it can be beneficial for lining up zip tape and so much more.
It comes in a width of 0.6 cm/ 0.24 inch and is soluble in water. As it is water-soluble, you can sew through it without your needle having to go through the gumming effect. You can also use this to sew easily because of its small holes.
As a result, the quilting can be attached easily and conveniently over several different layers of fabric or heavier cloth.
This double-sided tape can be attached on the go and helps fix clothes and DIY home projects. There are hardly any hem tapes like this on the market that offer a superior level of convenience.
Pros
- Very sticky
- Best substitute of pins
- Ensures safety
- Reel is plentiful
- Easy application
Cons
- Thin in width
- Needs to be held in place while sewing
6. PeelnStick Fabric Fuse
This next item is also the type of hem tape that does not require any stitching or ironing. The PeeNStitch fabric fuse comes in a width of 5/8 inches and a length of 6.67 yards.
The manufacturers designed the tape, especially for fabrics that require double-sided adhesive. It creates an instant bond between the attached fabric and hemming. This product is perfect for fixing home decors as well as torn clothes.
It won’t take you long to attach your fabrics if you follow a press-on method. The first step includes you to measure and put the tape on your seam.
Peel off the cover and press on the other side of the fabric to the hem tape. Then the outfit is fixed in a matter of minutes.
However, you need to keep in mind that this tape is only machine washable and dryer friendly. Make sure you do not dry clean. The item is also safe and non-toxic, but pretends to avoid any possibility of ruining your clothes.
Pros
- Easy application
- Budget-friendly
- No stitching/ironing is needed
- Doesn’T take time
- Thick and wide
Cons
- Adhesive might affect skin when in contact
- No chance for corrections
7. HeatnBond Hem Iron-on Adhesive
If you are looking for an easy and permanent hemming tape, then this product is made for you. Made in the USA, it comes in a 3-4 inch width and a length of 8 yards.
This item is suitable if you work with heavier clothes or fabric such as denim, suede, wool, corduroy, and heavy cotton. The double-sided adhesive will help your material with a long-lasting hem and a permanent finish.
Using the tape will give you a clean hem without the need for stitching. All you have to do is iron the hem together.
Due to two colors available, you can use white colored tape for light-colored clothes; and for clothes in darker colors, you can use black tape.
The heat-activating tape might take you seconds or minutes to give you the perfect finish. Preheat your iron on a low or steam setting and put your fabric in place suitable for ironing. Place the tape on the hem, unfold and iron back and forth. Then you will be done.
Pros
- Colors available to match the fabric
- Range of thickness
- Permanent
- Clean hem in seconds
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Might take more than 5-10 seconds
- Smell can be irritating
Best Hem Tape Buying Guide
By now, you probably have a fair idea about all the best adhesive hem tapes on the market. However, there’s still not enough information to make sure you pick the right hem tape.
Before you make a purchase, you should pay attention to some significant factors. Knowing the elements will help you determine which of these products are suitable for you.
Type of Fabric
As you might have noticed, different hem tapes are ideal for different types of fabrics. For example, some of the models we reviewed are suitable for sewing pillowcases and curtains. These are much more suitable for fixing household crafts and DIY fixes.
Alternatively, you can use other hem tapes to sew heavier materials. They are more suitable for sewing torn jeans and denim clothes.
It can also come in handy for patching up corduroy and cotton clothes. It would be best if you kept in mind that the hem tape shouldn’t weigh down the fabric in any way.
By keeping the factors in mind, you could change the look of the outfit drastically. You might notice some uneven creases on your favorite shirt, which can end up ruining your style.
To maintain a good fashion statement, you can also match the hem tape’s color with the fabric. There are a few hem tapes that offer you various color options.
Ease of Use
A good hem tape is a DIY enthusiast’s ally. Therefore, you should only pick a model that prioritizes ease of use. You can’t apply all hem tapes in the same way.
Some need exposure to heat with the help of iron to settle permanently. On the other hand, some models come with double-sided adhesives.
You might find the latter more convenient to use as you can instantly apply it on the go. Beware that these adhesives aren’t always long-lasting. So, always check beforehand. Also, some iron-on hem tapes can burn when in contact with the iron for too long.
Durability
Finally, you must make sure that the hem tape will last as long as you would expect. You can measure a hem tape’s durability by the efficiency and performance of its adhesive.
Whether it’s a double-sided tape or a heat-activated one, the glue should be strong enough to ensure permanence.
The last thing you want is your strap to detach in the middle of a family get-together. Besides that, the adhesive should also be safe for your skin.
Make sure the chemicals used in the glue aren’t toxic. The adhesive should also be water-soluble to keep it washer-safe.
How to Use Hem Tape?
Ways you can use a Hem Tape depends upon the type you are using. The directions on how to use the product come with the packaging mostly.
However, if you still have problems and confusion, don’t worry. Here are the steps you should know before using hem tape to get the best results.
Iron-on Hem tapes
Some of the product types might require you to use an iron to complete the hemming process. For that, firstly, lay down your fabric on a surface suitable for ironing.
Then turn them inside out and unfold the hem. Cut the hemming tape of the required length and put it on the cloth.
Put a damp towel on your cloth before you iron. Make sure to heat the iron on a low/no steam setting before pressing. Then press hard on for 5-10 seconds. Wait for a few seconds after ironing to let the cloth cool, and you are finished.
No-Iron Hem Tapes
These types of hem tapes are much easier to use and takes fewer steps. All you have to do is unfold the hem and put your tape of the desired length on the hemline. Peel off the tape cover and press it for a while with something heavy. That’s it, and your hemming will be complete.
Final Words
If you have read this article thoroughly, you have all the information you need to pick the best hem tape for you. Don’t forget to keep the essential factors in mind when you’re out shopping.
Also, follow the application instructions carefully to get the most out of your hem tape.