Polyester Horsehair Braid | Crinoline Hem Stiffening, 6mm-200mm

A stiffening braid that makes a hem hold its shape.

Horsehair braid is the traditional name for this stiffening braid — a term from the days when it was woven from horsehair. This one is made of 100% polyester, so it contains no animal hair: it is a washable braid that folds, curves and presses cleanly.

How it works
The braid is a flat, crimped woven strip with a springy hand. Sewn into a turned hem it adds body and control, so a hem stays crisp, a circle skirt keeps its flare, and a sheer or lightweight fabric stops collapsing. It eases along a curve without kinking and holds the shape it is sewn into.

Where to use it
Skirt and dress hems, circle skirts and flared hems, sheer and lightweight fabrics, tulle and organza layers, curtain and drapery hems, costume and dancewear hems, millinery brims, hat and bonnet edges, bag bases, corset and bodice edges, and structured garment trims.

Sizes and colours
• Widths: 6mm to 200mm
• Colours: the full range shown in the photos — black, white, ivory, chocolate brown, camel, grey, navy, purple, magenta, coral, orange, mustard, yellow, chartreuse, green, dark red and maroon

How to apply
Cut the braid to length plus a small allowance. Turn up the hem allowance, lay the braid inside the fold, then stitch close to the braid edge through all layers. For a softer finish, stitch the braid to the hem edge and turn it to the inside. Test on an offcut first — the stiffness changes with width, so a wider braid gives a firmer result.

Specs
• Material: 100% polyester
• Construction: flat crimped woven braid
• Widths: 6mm – 200mm
• Colour range: see the photos