Koristeommel

Koristeommel is a sewing technique used to finish fabric edges or join textiles with an ornamental stitch, producing a decorative border or detail on textiles. In Finnish sewing vocabulary, ommel refers to a hem or folded edge, and koristeommel denotes a decorative variation of this edge finish.

The technique is commonly applied to hems on garments, table linens, napkins, and other decorative textiles, where the visible stitch on the right side adds ornament as well as function. Edges may be pressed and folded, sometimes as a narrow rolled hem, and then stitched close to the edge, or stitched along the edge of a flat seam to create a decorative effect. Both hand and machine methods are used, allowing a range of appearances from subtle to highly embellished.

Common methods and stitches associated with decorative hems include running stitches, herringbone, chain stitches, and buttonhole stitches, as well as machine stitches designed to mimic embroidery. The choice of thread color and stitch density contributes to the overall decorative impact. In addition to finishing, korosteommel can serve as a design element along seams or borders of the textile.

Usage and context: korosteommel has historical ties to Finnish and Nordic folk textiles, where practical edge finishing often carried an ornamental purpose. In contemporary craft, it remains a versatile option for adding decorative detail to both traditional-inspired and modern fabrics.

See also: hem, edge finishing, embroidery stitches, decorative stitching.