You might think you need an overlocker or serger if you’re sewing knit fabrics. But don’t worry if you’ve only got a regular sewing machine – sewing knits is perfectly possible. No need for professional or fancy sewing machines!
In this post
What stitch should I use when sewing knits?
zigzag stitch
A zigzag stitch is a great way to seam knit fabrics. Its inherent stretch allows for the fabric to stretch and move without fear of popping a seam. On light to medium weight knits, try using a stitch length of 1.5 and a width of 5.
How do you sew stretchy fabric on a sewing machine?
We recommend using the zigzag stitch on your sewing machine as it allows the fabric to stretch and retract with the thread. The twin needle will do two rows of zigzag stitching, offering a more secure stitch with a professional finish.
Can you sew a knitted sweater with a sewing machine?
If you’re not a fan of hand sewing, you can also use a sewing machine to sew your knits. A sewing machine isn’t recommended for delicate knits like lace-weight sweaters. But if your knitting can stand up to some strong stitching, a sewing machine is a fast way to attach knits to fabric.
Can you use straight stitch on stretch fabric?
Ensure you opt for the right size of needle for your fabric. Use stitches that will hold the stretch of the fabric – the stitches need to stretch with the fabric, so they don’t pucker and break. If you must sew with a straight stitch, then hold the material taut, but don’t pull it.
Do you need special thread for stretchy fabric?
All-purpose polyester thread will work fine as it has some give when stretched. Cotton thread is not recommended. If the item you’re making needs to be stretchy or form-fitting to the body, you may want to use elastic thread. Only use elastic thread in the bobbin of your sewing machine, and wind it by hand.
Do I need a walking foot to sew knits?
A walking foot, also known as an Even Feed foot, will evenly feed the two layers of fabric through the machine at the same time. This prevents the fabric from being stretched out as it’s sewn, which is why it is ideal for very stretchy knit fabrics. A walking foot prevents your machine from “eating” your fabric.
Can you use a straight stitch on jersey fabric?
The best way to hem your jersey garments is by turning your hem to the wrong side and topstitching them in place from the right side. You can either choose a straight stitch and sew it with a twin needle (shown above), or, what I often use on children’s clothing, is the three-step zigzag (pictured below).
Is knit fabric hard to sew?
But it’s not always easy to know how to tackle the wide range of fabrics available. Some, like knit fabric can be harder to sew with a straight stitch and to keep in shape, thanks to its natural elasticity. Wobbly seams, uneven stitches and pulled fabric needn’t be an issue!
What is the stretch stitch on a sewing machine?
A stretch stitch is what you will commonly use if you plan to sew stretch fabric. This stretch stitch is perfectly straight but it allows for stretching without the thread popping or breaking, which is what would happen if stretching a regular straight stitch.
What kind of needle do you use for stretch fabric?
ball point needle
Use the ball point needle when sewing on stretch fabrics or fabrics where skipped stitches easily occur. We recommend needle HG-4BR (Organ). Schmetz needles “JERSEY BALL POINT” 130/705H SUK 90/14 may be used as a substitute.
Can you stitch wool on a sewing machine?
Wools can be very bulky, which can be challenging. Make sure you make use of very good quality threads and the right sewing machine needle to match the weight of your wool. Tip: If you’re finding your thread breaks easily, or you’re having tension issues, you might like to try a silk thread.
Why is my sewing machine skipping stitches on knits?
The most common cause of a sewing machine skipping stitches is a problem with the sewing machine needle. The needle may be slightly bent, even if you can not see the bend. It may have developed a dull point from use, or it may have a nick in it.
How do you keep knit fabric from curling?
How to Stop Knit Fabric from Curling and Rolling
- Use Pattern Weights.
- Serging Knit Fabric Edges.
- Starching and Pressing Knit Fabric.
- Terial Magic to Uncurl & Stiffen Knit Fabric Edges.
- DIY Water-Soluble Stabilizer Solution.
What tension should I use for jersey?
You shouldn’t need to adjust the tension up or down by more than one number, meaning you will usually stay within the range of 3-5. Most lighter weight knit fabrics eg. t-shirt jersey and lighter need a looser tension of around 3.
Can you use stretchy thread in a sewing machine?
Elastic thread is thicker and stretchier than regular thread. So it’s useful when you’re working with stretchy fabrics. You typically use elastic thread in your sewing machine in combination with regular thread.
Is a knit foot the same as a walking foot?
The walking foot (or even feed foot) is harder to stitch over the edge of knits with, as they’re stretchy and the ‘teeth’ want to feed the fabric from the left and the right at once. That’s how it feeds most fabric through so smoothly.
What can I use instead of walking foot?
If you wish to avoid using a walking foot altogether, then your alternative quilting foot is a darning or hopping foot. With this foot, the you must drop your sewing machine’s feed dogs. You are in charge of moving the quilt sandwich through your sewing machine and creating the stitch length.