A lettuce border is a ruffled trim resembling a lettuce leaf edge that can be added to the neckline, hem, or cuffs of garments and other items. It is created using an overlock sewing machine and works best on stretchy or bias fabrics. A double lettuce border creates a double ruffle effect.
A lettuce border is a type of trim that creates a ruffle at the neckline, hem, or cuffs. The name is derived from the similarity of the edge to the wrinkled, wrinkled edge of a lettuce leaf. The similarity is most evident in the irregularity of the edge. These borders can be one or two layers, thick or thin, and can be made of various fabrics. Although they can be sewn by hand, most find it more efficient to sew a lettuce edge using a sewing machine or saw. Garments that commonly feature these embellishments include baby clothes, wedding dresses, or girls’ fashion designs, although they can also be found on items such as rugs, socks, and scarves.
This finishing technique is especially useful for creating a quick, simple, and decorative garment edge without using additional fabrics, which can fray at the seams, be difficult to join, or create problems with laundering. The lettuce edge was first simplified with the advent of the overlock sewing machine in the 19th century, which allowed for self-locking and self-locking. This type of stitching involves stitching over the edge of the garment to finish it, while stitching occurs when the sewing machine cuts through the fabric as it feeds and stitches.
To create a ruffle without adding lace or other decorative fabric, the lettuce edge hem technique uses seams to not only finish the rough edge of the fabric, but to force the hemmed edge, fold, and crinkle. This employs a tight zigzag and intricate overlock stitching to create a uniform fabric edge. The fabric must be precisely stretched and fed to ensure even and proper ruffles without distorting the main garment.
Stretchy, flexible fabrics are generally best for creating lettuce edging, especially fabrics that easily conform and retain their original shape, rather than stretch permanently. The technique also works well on woven fabrics with a bias edge. Regular and fine threads can create a ruffled hem. Many sewing enthusiasts use thread in one or two colors that complement or contrast with the fabric. Variable stitch lengths can also create unique designs.
A double lettuce border features a bottom layer of fabric, usually a quarter inch (.63 cm) to one inch (2.54 cm) longer than the main garment. When both layers are folded using the lettuce edging technique, this creates a double ruffle. A popular design is to choose fabrics of different colors with matching thread, and then sew the edge of the lettuce on each layer with the contrasting thread color for a distinctive pattern.
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