Hong Kong finish

/ˈhɒŋ ˈkɒŋ ˈfɪnɪʃ/

noun

A technique for finishing a seam where the raw edges of the fabric are bound with another fabric, usually with bias tape or silk; a bound seam.

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Meanings

nounHong Kong finish (plural Hong Kong finishes)

plural Hong Kong finishes · alternative Hong Kong seam

  1. businessA technique for finishing a seam where the raw edges of the fabric are bound with another fabric, usually with bias tape or silk; a bound seam.

    A Hong Kong seam is best used on a stable fabric.

    2014, Dolin Bliss O'Shea, Famous Frocks, page 356
    2 more examples

    The Hong Kong finish is among the most impressive used in couture sewing for both hems and seams.

    1988, Margaret Dittman, The Fabric Lover's Scrapbook, page 57

    If the garment is not lined, use the elegant Hong Kong finish to complete the edges of any exposed facings.

    2023, Julie Cole & Sharon Czachor, Professional Sewing Technique for Designers, page 136

Origin

Uncertain, from Hong Kong + finish.

Full word history & related roots →
Cite this entry
APA

Hong Kong finish. (n.d.). In WatkinsX Dictionary. Retrieved November 5, 2026, from https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Hong%20Kong%20finish

MLA

“Hong Kong finish.” WatkinsX Dictionary, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Hong%20Kong%20finish. Accessed November 5, 2026.

Chicago

WatkinsX Dictionary, s.v. “Hong Kong finish,” accessed November 5, 2026, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Hong%20Kong%20finish.

Source: Hong Kong finish on Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.