The teacher should demonstrate the method of overcasting and explain its
use. She should have the pupils trim the edges of their seams neatly and
overcast them carefully. After the seams have been overcast, she should
discuss the depth of the hem that the pupils expect to use and the
method of turning and basting it. They should then measure, turn, pin,
and baste the hems, using the gauge for determining the depth of the
hem. If the bags are deep enough to admit of a heading at the top, a
deep hem (about 2-1/2 inches) can be made, and a running-stitch put in
one-half inch (or more) above the edge of the hem, to provide a casing,
or space, for the cord. If it is necessary to take a narrow hem, the hem
itself can be made to answer as space for the cord; in this case the hem
should be made about one-half inch deep.