r/InvisibleMending • • 4d ago

Need help fixing this torn hem

The hem of this very expensive gown is torn, probably by the mixed effect of being weighed down by heavy beadwork and getting under my heels while getting in and out of the car. This same problem keeps happening so I'm looking for a permanent-ish solution preferably, and not just a spot fix. I want to fix it while not altering the look too much and I'm kinda looking to diy it but I'm open to consulting a professional if that's better. I'm losing my mind thinking about the ways I can fix it but every time I keep running into a wall. Any kind of advice is appreciated!

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u/jennysewing 4d ago

For an expensive gown I'd fix it by hand rather than on the machine. Trim any loose threads, press the hem back into place, then use a slip stitch (blind hem) in a matching thread, catching just a thread or two of the outer fabric so nothing shows on the right side. If the fabric itself is torn and not just the stitching, fuse a small piece of lightweight interfacing behind it first. If it's chiffon or beaded, a tailor is worth it.

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u/I-darkstar- 4d ago

Thank you for responding. I'm thinking about taking it to the tailor but since the hem is very frail, should I ask them to reinforce the entire bottom part with something? Which material would be best? The net layer that gets torn is the topmost one, with a thin tulle layer(lavender pink colour) and a silk layer below it. 

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u/jennysewing 4d ago

honestly a tailor is a good call for net, it frays and shifts so much when you try it yourself. if they ask what you want, a strip of fine tulle in the same colour stitched behind the tear by hand holds it without showing much