How to sew mitred corners
A mitred corner folds the hem at 45 degrees so two hems meet neatly with no bulk. Use it for napkins, tablecloths, quilts and coat vents.
Pinny's tip
Press the folds in first, then unfold. The pressed lines tell you exactly where to sew.
Press the folds in first, then unfold. The pressed lines tell you exactly where to sew.
What you'll need
- Iron: pressing marks the lines.
- Ruler and chalk: to mark the diagonal.
- Point turner: for a sharp corner.
Step by step
- Press both hems up at the depth you want: first the small turn, then the full hem.
- Unfold the last fold. Fold the corner in diagonally so the pressed lines meet, and press.
- Unfold and fold the corner right sides together along the diagonal.
- Sew along the pressed diagonal line from the fold to the edge.
- Trim off the corner, leaving about 10mm (3/8 in), and press the seam open.
- Turn the corner through, push out the point and stitch the hems down.
Watch
How to Sew a Mitered Corner (2:13)
By OnlineFabricStore · Open on YouTube
The video this technique page has always pointed to, a 2-minute one from OnlineFabricStore. Embedded from YouTube with credit; we don't host it. It only loads when you press play.
Common mistakes
- Uneven hem depths. Both sides must be the same depth for a true 45 degrees.
- Not trimming. The corner stays bulky.
- Poking out the point with scissors. Use a point turner or knitting needle.
Watch it done
- How to Sew a Mitered Corner by OnlineFabricStore on YouTube. Opens on YouTube; the video belongs to its creator.
- Tutorial: How to sew a mitered corner by Seamwork on YouTube. Opens on YouTube; the video belongs to its creator.
- How to sew the easiest Mitered Corner using Shortcuts !! Easy way to make Napkins etc… by Notches Sewing on YouTube. Opens on YouTube; the video belongs to its creator.
Sources
All checked November 1, 2026. We read these; we did not test the products ourselves.