Learn How to Sew with Knits

Learn How to Sew with Knits

Sewing with knits can be a bit intimidating for beginners, but with some practice and patience, you can easily master the art of working with stretchy fabrics. Knit fabrics are great for making comfortable and stylish clothing items like t-shirts, dresses, and leggings. Here are some tips on how to successfully sew with knits.

The first thing to keep in mind when working with knit fabrics is to choose the right type of knit for your project. There are several different types of knit fabrics, such as jersey, ponte, and interlock, each with its own characteristics and stretchiness. It’s important to choose a fabric that is suitable for the garment you are making, as some knits are better suited for certain projects than others.

When cutting out your pattern pieces, it’s important to use a rotary cutter and a cutting mat to prevent the fabric from stretching out of shape. Knit fabrics can be a bit slippery, so using pattern weights or pins to secure the fabric in place can also be helpful.

One of the most important things to remember when sewing with knits is to use the right needle and stitch settings on your sewing machine. A ballpoint needle is best for sewing knits, as it is designed to slide between the fibers of the fabric without damaging them. You should also use a zigzag stitch or a stretch stitch on your machine, as these stitches will allow the fabric to stretch without breaking the seams.

Another tip for sewing with knits is to use a walking foot or a dual feed foot on your sewing machine. These special presser feet help to feed the fabric evenly through the machine, preventing the fabric from stretching or puckering as you sew.

When it comes to finishing the seams on your knit garments, there are several options to choose from. You can use a serger to seam the edges of the fabric, or you can use a stretch stitch on your sewing machine to finish the seams. You can also use a twin needle to create a professional-looking hem on your knit garments.

Practice makes perfect when it comes to sewing with knits, so don’t get frustrated if your first few projects don’t turn out as well as you had hoped. With time and practice, you will become more comfortable working with knit fabrics and will be able to create beautiful, comfortable clothing items that you can be proud of.

In conclusion, sewing with knits can be a fun and rewarding experience once you get the hang of it. By choosing the right fabric, using the correct needle and stitch settings, and practicing your sewing skills, you can create stylish and comfortable knit garments that you will love to wear. So grab some knit fabric, fire up your sewing machine, and start sewing with knits today!