What a pico foot (rolled hem foot) does, how to feed the fabric, and common mistakes to avoid on a single-needle machine.
A pico foot, also called a rolled hem foot, is a presser foot that curls the raw edge of the fabric and stitches it in one pass. It gives the narrow, neat hem you see on the edges of sarees, dupatta borders and light blouse fabrics, without pressing and pinning the hem first.
What it does
The scroll at the front of the foot folds the edge over twice as the fabric feeds through, and the needle stitches the fold. The Size Hub pico foot is 9.5 mm (3/8 in) and fits an industrial single-needle machine. It rolls and stitches a narrow hem in one pass on light fabric.
How to use it
- Fit the foot to the machine and use a straight stitch.
- Start the edge. Fold a few millimetres of the raw edge over twice for the first few centimetres, so it enters the scroll already curled.
- Lower the needle and the foot, and stitch a few stitches to hold the fold.
- Feed the fabric with a light, even pull. Keep the raw edge in front of the scroll and let the foot roll it.
- Keep going at a steady speed; stopping and starting makes the hem uneven.
Common mistakes
- Using heavy fabric. A pico foot is for light fabrics; thick cloth will not roll in the scroll.
- A frayed or ragged edge. Trim it straight before you start.
- Pulling too hard. The foot should guide the fabric, and pulling makes the hem twist.
Where to get one
See the pico foot for sewing machine, 9.5 mm page. It is posted across India. For other sewing accessories, browse the tailoring accessories.
Frequently asked questions
Is a pico foot the same as a rolled hem foot?
Yes, they are two names for the same type of foot.
Does it fit a domestic machine?
Ours is made for an industrial single-needle machine. Check that your machine takes the same fitting before you order.