How to Serge a Rolled Hem: A 3-Thread Rolled Edge

A rolled hem is one of the cleanest ways to finish an edge—especially on light fabrics where a traditional turned hem can feel bulky or show through. In this video from Serging With the Girlfriends, Cheri demonstrates how to create a 3-thread rolled hem on soft gauze for a simple, polished baby blanket finish.

Why a serger rolled hem works so well

A serger rolled hem wraps the fabric edge with thread as it stitches, creating a narrow, tidy finish that:

prevents fraying on fabrics like gauze
keeps the edge lightweight and flexible
looks finished from both sides

It’s a great technique for baby blankets, scarves, ruffles, napkins, and any project where you want a soft edge that still feels professional.

What you’ll need

Your serger capable of a rolled hem
Matching (or coordinating) thread
Your fabric (in the video: soft gauze for a baby blanket)
Scraps for testing settings

Step-by-step: setting up a 3-thread rolled hem

Because different serger models vary, think of these as the standard checkpoints that apply to most machines.

1) Switch to a 3-thread setup

A 3-thread rolled hem typically uses one needle and both loopers. Depending on your serger, you may use either the right or left needle—follow what your machine recommends for rolled hems.

2) Engage the rolled hem function

Many sergers have a rolled hem setting that changes how the stitches form at the edge (often by moving or changing the stitch finger). This is the key to getting that tight “rolled” look instead of a normal overlock.

3) Adjust stitch settings for a tighter wrap

A rolled hem usually needs:

a shorter stitch length (to pack stitches closer together)
a narrower cutting width (so the edge rolls neatly)

4) Fine-tune tension for a clean edge

Rolled hems depend on the loopers wrapping the edge evenly. If the hem doesn’t look balanced on your first test, small tension adjustments will usually fix it:

If the edge isn’t rolling or looks loose, tighten slightly.
If the fabric tunnels or puckers, loosen and/or check differential feed.

5) Test on scraps before stitching the project

Do a quick test on a scrap of the same fabric (especially important with gauze). You’ll dial in the look faster and avoid surprises on your final edge.

Tips for better results on gauze and other soft fabrics

Go steady: Let the feed dogs move the fabric—avoid pulling, which can stretch the edge.
Support the fabric: Light fabrics can “sink” or ripple; guiding gently with both hands helps maintain an even edge.
Stitch consistency matters: Keep the fabric edge consistently against your guide so the knife trims evenly.

Watch the tutorial for the full setup

Rolled hems are much easier once you see the settings and stitch formation in action. Cheri walks through a 3-thread rolled hem on soft gauze and how it creates a simple, finished baby blanket edge.

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Ready to bring home a serger (or upgrade)?

At My Girlfriend’s Quilt Shoppe, we know a serger is the secret to professional-looking seams, flawless finishes, and stretch-friendly stitches. That’s why we carry trusted brands like Brother and Baby Lock, offering everything from beginner-friendly models to advanced sergers with cover stitch options. Whether you’re sewing garments, home décor, or quilting accents, we’ll help you choose the serger that takes your stitching to the next level.

You can shop sergers right on our website—beginner-friendly options all the way up to feature-packed dream machines.