Crafting A Wedding Handkerchief: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding handkerchiefs are a thoughtful gift for the bridal party, mothers and fathers of the couple, and the couple themselves. They can be used to dry happy tears on the big day and are often passed down through generations. You can make your own wedding handkerchief using a square of fabric with small hems on the edges. Cotton or silk are the best fabrics to use, and you can decorate your handkerchief with lace trim or embroidery.

Choosing the fabric

If you're looking for an eco-friendly option, consider upcycling fabric you already have at home. While there is no "best" colour for a handkerchief, white handkerchiefs can be soaked in bleach to keep them looking bright and new. Interesting patterns or fun colours can also add a unique touch to your handkerchief. If you plan to add embroidery or monograms, it's best to choose a plain fabric.

Once you've chosen your fabric, cut it into a square. The standard handkerchief size is 12x12 inches (30.5x30.5cm), but any size square will work. Don't forget to add a 1/2-inch (12mm) seam allowance all the way around when cutting.

Cutting the fabric

First, decide on the size you want to make. A standard handkerchief is 12x12 inches (30.5x30.5cm), but any size will do. Just be sure to add a 1/2 inch (12mm) seam allowance all the way around. For example, if you want a finished size of 12x12 inches, cut a square that is 13x13 inches.

If you have a rectangular piece of fabric, you can cut a square by folding one edge up into a triangle, making sure it is a 45-degree angle. Measure the side to ensure it is the correct size, then open up the fabric to reveal a perfect square.

Once you have your square, press the raw edges over by 1/4 inch (6mm), then 1/4 inch (6mm) again to create a narrow double fold hem. For cotton or linen, use a water spray to set the hems flat if they're being stubborn. For silk, use a pressing cloth in between as direct contact may leave marks.

Pressing the hems

Preparation:

Before pressing the hems, it is essential to cut your fabric to the desired size and shape. The standard handkerchief size is 12" x 12", but you can choose any size that suits your needs. Additionally, pre-washing the fabric is recommended to remove any stiffening agents or chemicals.

Pressing the Hem:

• Start by pressing the raw edge of the fabric up by 1/4 inch (6mm). Use a ruler or tape measure to ensure accuracy.
• Fold the edge again by another 1/4 inch (6mm) to create a narrow double fold hem. This technique will enclose the raw edge within the fold, resulting in a neat and durable finish.
• If you are working with cotton or linen fabric, use a water spray to lightly dampen the fabric. This will help set the hems flat and make them easier to press.
• For silk fabric, place a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric to avoid leaving any marks or scorch marks on the delicate material.
• Apply heat to the folded edge using an iron. Press the iron gently along the fold to create a sharp, crisp edge. Take your time with this step to ensure that the hem is securely pressed and there are no creases or bumps.
• Repeat this process for all four sides of the handkerchief, ensuring that the hems are consistent in width and neatly aligned.

Tips:

• If you are using a fabric that is challenging to work with or if your hems are not staying flat, consider using a hemming tape or fabric glue to secure the folds before pressing.
• Always test the heat setting on your iron on a small scrap of fabric before applying it to your handkerchief to avoid any potential damage.
• If you are making multiple handkerchiefs, assemble a production line to streamline the process. Cut all your fabric pieces first, then move on to pressing the hems for all the handkerchiefs before proceeding to the next step.

By following these steps, you will be able to create beautifully pressed hems for your wedding handkerchiefs, adding a touch of elegance and craftsmanship to your handmade creations.

Pinning the edges

Once you've pressed the raw edges of your handkerchief up by 1/4 inch and then again for a second time, you'll need to pin all the way around to hold the hems in place. This is a crucial step in the process of making a handkerchief, as it ensures that the hems remain in the correct position while you stitch them in place.

When pinning the edges, it's important to use straight pins that are perpendicular to the edge of the fabric. This will make it easier to stitch along the edge without having to remove the pins as you go. Insert the pins at a slight angle, with the sharp end of the pin facing the edge of the fabric. This will help to hold the fabric layers together securely. Space the pins about 2 to 3 inches apart to ensure that the fabric doesn't shift.

If you're working with a slippery fabric, you may want to use more pins placed closer together to prevent the fabric from shifting. It's also a good idea to use finer pins that won't leave large holes in delicate fabrics.

After pinning, you can start stitching the hem in place. You can use a sewing machine or hand stitch, depending on your preference and the tools you have available. If you're using a sewing machine, select a straight stitch with a short stitch length and use a presser foot suitable for the type of fabric you're working with. Stitch along the inner fold of the hem, as close to the edge as possible.

If you're hand stitching, a simple running stitch or backstitch will work well. Thread a needle with double cotton and knot the end. Bring the needle up in the fold to hide the knot, then stitch with small, even stitches. Try to keep your stitches close together to create a strong hem.

Stitching the handkerchief

Now that you have cut your fabric into a square, it's time to stitch your handkerchief.

Press the Hems

Press the raw edge of the fabric up by 1/4 inch (6mm), and then press it up again by another 1/4 inch (6mm) to form a narrow double fold hem. If you are working with cotton or linen, use a water spray to set the hems flat if they are a little stubborn. If you are working with silk, only press it with a pressing cloth in between, as direct contact may leave marks.

Pin the Edges

Pin all the way around the fabric to hold the hems in place.

Stitch the Hem

Machine or hand stitch around the edge of the hem. You can use a sewing machine or hand-sew the fabric with a needle and thread.

Machine Stitching

Use an all-purpose presser foot and stitch with a short stitch length of 2.5 close to the inner fold. For the best results, use a matching thread so that your stitching will not be noticeable.

Hand Stitching

The easiest hand stitch is a running stitch that uses a simple up-and-down motion. The smaller your stitches, the stronger your hem will be. Use a matching colour thread for the best results. Start by threading a needle with double cotton and knotting the end together. Bring the needle up in the fold so the knot will be hidden. Stitch in small running stitches—up, down, up, down.

Decorative Hand Stitching

You can also use a blanket stitch to make an attractive contrast hand-stitched border.

Frequently asked questions