4 tips for sewing with knitted fabrics - Wallington Sewing TheraBee

Top Tips for Sewing with Knitted Fabric

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Sewing with knitted fabric can be a little different from sewing with woven fabric.

Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Stabilise your seams: Knit fabric has a tendency to stretch out of shape, so it’s important to stabilise your seams. You can do this by using a stretch stitch or a narrow zigzag stitch, or by using fusible interfacing.
Use a ballpoint needle: Knit fabric is woven differently from woven fabric, so it’s important to use a ballpoint needle. This type of needle has a rounded tip that won’t damage the knit fibres, ensuring that your fabric doesn’t ladder or get snagged.
Avoid over-stretching: When you’re sewing with knitted fabric, it’s important not to over-stretch the fabric as you sew. This can cause the fabric to become misshapen and lose its shape.
Choose the right stitch length: When you’re sewing with knit fabric, it’s important to choose the right stitch length. A stitch that’s too short can cause the fabric to pucker, while a stitch that’s too long can cause the seams to come apart. Aim for a stitch length of 2.5 to 3mm.

Popular Types of Knitted Fabric

There are many different types of knitted fabric to choose from, each with its own unique properties and uses. Here are a few of the most popular types:

Jersey: Jersey is a stretchy, lightweight knit that is often used for t-shirts and other casual garments. It is soft and comfortable to wear and has a tendency to stretch out of shape if not stabilized.
Ribbed: Ribbed knits are characterized by a pattern of vertical lines of ridges and valleys. They are typically used for ribbed cuffs and hemlines, and can also be used to create fitted garments that hug the body.
Interlock: Interlock is a type of knit fabric that has a smooth, flat surface on both sides. It is often used for dresses, skirts, and other more formal garments.
French terry: French terry is a type of knit fabric that has a looped surface on one side and a smooth surface on the other. It is often used for sweatshirts and other comfortable, casual garments.

Qualities of Knitted Fabric with Regard to Sewing

Knitted fabrics have a number of qualities that make them ideal for certain types of garments. Here are a few of the most important qualities to keep in mind when you’re sewing with knitted fabric:

Stretch: Knitted fabrics have a natural stretch to them, which makes them ideal for comfortable, form-fitting garments.
Softness: Knits are typically soft and comfortable to wear, which makes them ideal for cosy garments like sweatshirts and pyjamas.
Drapability: Knits have a tendency to drape and flow, which makes them ideal for flowing garments like dresses and skirts.

Pre-Washing Knitted Fabric

It is always a good idea to pre-wash your material before you start sewing with knitted fabric, especially with knits. Knitted fabrics can shrink when they are washed, so pre-washing helps to ensure that your finished garment will fit properly. Be sure to follow the washing instructions on the fabric label, and avoid using fabric softeners, which can leave a residue on the fabric and make it less stretchy.

Washing Directions

As for washing and care, most knitted fabric should be prewashed before making garments. This helps to remove any shrinkage and prevent the fabric from changing shape once you’ve sewn your garment. When washing knitted fabric, it’s best to use a gentle cycle and cool water, and avoid using fabric softeners, as these can affect the stretch and feel of the fabric.

And finally, you might be surprised to learn that knitted fabric is sometimes referred to as “ribbed fabric” or “stretch knit.” So, next time you’re shopping for knit fabric, keep these terms in mind!