When I purchased my formal dress, I was told that I could use double sided tape to hem it because it is cheaper than paying to get it sewn. Has anyone done this before? Is there a special fabric double sided tape? If so, where can I find it?
Yes you can use stitch witchery it is double sided and when you heat it it sticks to both sides also there is fabric glue which works well but needs 24 hours to dry with something like books on top to keep down hemming truthfully is the best because depending on dancing etc the others may fail just keep that in mindand some dry cleaners hem at a small fee
Most formal dresses that I have seen would not like the added heat from an iron, would melt. Trip issues with double sided tape. Stitching best and really not too difficult unless the dress has an uneven hem; even a flounce unless it's uneven is easy to hem. Stand on a small stool with the shoes that you will be wearing and have a friend measure from the floor, pin sideways at where you need the hem. Depending on a roll or handkerchief hem, allow for depth of hem; cut off excess, stay stitch hem. Hint:enlist some one who sews for advise or help.
It depends on the fabric the garment in made from. Synthetic fibers (like polyester) will not bond well with the glue in the hem tape. Also, if it is a heavy fabric or has a thick hem already, it may not be strong enough to hold it up. Be careful with your iron setting and don't use steam. The delicate fabrics often used in formal wear will melt under the heat. It's useful to cover the area that you're pressing with a clean cloth or towel to avoid scortching the fabric or causing it to shine. If this is the case then, again depending upon the fabric, you can try a heavier duty fabric glue such as Ailene's OK to Wash it. There are a number of clear finish glues available that shouldn't bleed through and darken the fabric, but be sure to test it in a hidden area if possible. If you do choose to glue it and it does darken, you can simply glue an additional decorative trim over this. All of these things are available at any fabric store or in most crafts departments (such as Wal-Mart). A tailor or seamstress will probably charge between $10 and $20 to turn the hem properly.
