Abstract: A drive mechanism for a hemming apparatus includes a pneumatic cylinder pivotally mounted to a frame which is suspended from a bed on which the workpiece can be positioned. The reciprocating shaft of the pneumatic cylinder is pivotally connected to the knee of a toggle joint. One end of the toggle joint is pivotally connected to the frame, and the other end of the toggle joint is pivotally connected to a lever. The fulcrum of the lever is pivoted on the frame, and the other end of the lever is connected to a draw rod. The draw rod is adapted to pull a movable member into operative engagement with the workpiece in one or two stages to complete the hem.