How to Finish With a Hong Kong Seam
A Hong Kong seam is a method of binding the edges of a seam on the inside, without making it too bulky. It’s particularly useful for finishing unlined clothes, but doesn’t work well on curved seams. So check out how I do it!
Tools and materials:
- Fabric with straight seams
- 1" - 1 1/4" (2.5 - 3cm) wide bias tape, unfolded
- Iron
- Sewing machine
1. Seam
Sew a seam and press it open.
2. Line it up
Line up the edge of the bias strip with the edge of the seam allowance, with the right sides facing.
3. Join
Sew the two together about a quarter inch (0.5 cm) from the raw edge. Keep the seam as straight as possible.
4. Baste
Open the seam.
Sew a basting stitch about a quarter inch (0.5 cm) from the free edge of the bias strip.
Line up the raw edge with your reference point, to keep the stitching straight.
5. Fold
Fold the bias tape to the wrong side along the basting stitch line.
Wrap it over the raw edge of the seam allowance.
6. Sew
With the right side of the seam allowance uppermost, sew along the inner edge of the bias strip.
You don’t have to sew in the ditch, but get as close to it as you can.
How to sew a Hong Kong seam
And that’s it! Of course you’ll treat the other side of the seam allowance in the same way.
This would be a beautiful finish for an unlined vest, coat, or cloak. And it's ideal for heavier fabric too, like denim.
Let me know in the comments if you found this easy to follow.
Next, check out my Top Stitching Sewing Tutorial for Beginners.
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