Saumbänder

Saumbänder, literally “hem bands” in German, denote a category of edging strips used in textile construction. They consist of strips of fabric, braid, tape, or lace that are applied to the edge of a fabric to finish a hem or other edge. Saumbänder may be plain or decorative, and they can be made from the same material as the garment or contrasting for visual effect. They differ from simple hems in that they provide additional width, structure, or ornamentation, and can be used to reinforce fragile edges.

Forms and construction: They come in various widths, from narrow bias-cut tapes to wide decorative braids. They can be woven tapes, braided cords, or machine-made lace. Applications include finishing the lower edge of skirts and coats, cuffs, collars, and sometimes sewn inside as a facing or binding. They can be sewn directly to the edge or embedded within a hem.

History and usage: The term appears in German textile terminology and pattern literature. Saumbänder have been used since at least the 19th century in dressmaking, traditional costumes, and home textiles. In historical contexts they may bear embroidery or be part of a decorative trim.

Etymology: Derived from Saum (hem) and Bänder (bands, ribbons). See also: hem tape, binding, piping.