The beauty of sewing with stretch cotton is simply the ease
Contents
In this article, we’ll provide you with some useful tips on sewing with stretch cotton. Stretch cotton is one of the most versatile and popular fabrics used in sewing.
Stretch cotton is usually a blend of cotton and spandex, it is this that gives the material its stretch and flexibility. It’s a popular choice for making clothes that requires some stretch, such as tops, leggings, T-shirts, dresses and skirts. This fabric comes in a range of weights and textures, including light to medium-weight jersey knits, and chunky rib knits.
Is stretch cotton difficult to sew?
Sewing with stretch cotton can seem difficult for beginners as it’s not as stable as woven fabric, but with the right techniques and tools, it can be easy because it doesn’t fray. The stretchiness of the fabric can be a bit of a challenge because sometimes it can shift or pucker during sewing. So it’s important to use the right needle, thread, and make sure the sewing machine is setup for stretch materials. See the tips below.
Sewing with stretch cotton can be a fun and rewarding experience, allowing you to create comfortable and stylish garments that move with you.
4 Tips for working with stretch cotton
When working with stretch cotton, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Use the right needle: When sewing with stretch cotton, it’s important to use a ballpoint/jersey needle. This type of needle has a rounded tip which means it will push the fabric strands aside, rather than piercing them. This will prevent snags and runs in the fabric.
- Use a zigzag/stretch stitch: A stretch stitch (sometimes shown as a lightning bolt) is a type of stitch that will allow the stitch to stretch with the fabric without breaking the stitches. You can use a zigzag stitch, a stretch stitch on your machine, or an overlocker to sew with stretch cotton. Be sure to test your stitch on scrap material to ensure it stretches properly.
- Use a walking foot: A walking foot is a sewing machine foot that is really useful as it makes sure that the fabric is drawn evenly through the machine. This is particularly important when sewing with stretch cotton, as it can sometimes stretch or pucker as it’s fed through feed dogs which you want to avoid.
- Use a stabilizer: Stretch cotton can sometimes be tricky to sew because it tends to curl or stretch out of shape. Using a stabilizer, such as fusible interfacing or even a stabilising spray, can help keep the fabric from moving or stretching.
Now that we’ve covered some tips for sewing with any type of stretchy cotton, let’s take a closer look at the qualities of this versatile fabric.
What is stretch cotton fabric made of?
Now that we have got the sewing right, let’s take a look at the qualities of stretch cotton.
Stretch cotton is breathable, comfortable to wear, and easy to look after, making it a popular choice for everyday clothes. It’s also hardwearing and long-lasting, making it a great choice for clothes that will get a lot of use.
Types of stretch cotton?
There are different types of stretch cotton, and they can differ in a few key ways. Here are some of the most common types:
- Cotton Jersey: This is a lightweight, stretchy knit fabric that is often used for t-shirts, dresses, and other casual garments. It can have varying amounts of stretch, but typically has a soft drape and feels comfortable against the skin.
- Cotton Lycra: This is a blend of cotton and Lycra (also known as spandex or elastane) fibres, which gives the fabric a good amount of stretch and recovery. It is often used for activewear, swimwear, and other stretchy garments that require good shape retention.
- French Terry: This is a knit fabric that has a looped, unbrushed back and a smooth face. It has a good amount of stretch and is often used for sweatshirts, hoodies, and other casual garments.
- Stretch Sateen: This is a woven fabric that has a slight stretch due to the inclusion of elastane fibres. It has a smooth, slightly shiny surface and is often used for trousers, skirts, and other dressier garments.
- Stretch Denim: This is a woven fabric that has a good amount of stretch due to the inclusion of elastane fibres. It is often used for jeans and other casual garments that require durability and stretch.
These different types of stretch cotton can vary in terms of their weight, drape, and stretch properties, so it’s important to choose the right fabric for your project based on the desired look and feel of the finished garment. It’s also important to consider the amount of stretch and recovery that the fabric has, as this can affect how well the garment fits and retains its shape over time.
Pre-Washing stretch cotton Fabric
When it comes to washing and caring for stretch cotton, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Most can be machine washed on a gentle cycle and tumble-dried on low heat. Be sure to avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they can damage the fabric.
Is stretch cotton known by different names?
Yes, it is known by other names, such as cotton jersey, cotton spandex, and cotton elastane. Each of these names refers to a slightly different blend of cotton and spandex, but they are all essentially the same fabric.
How does stretch cotton feel?
It typically feels soft and comfortable, with a slight give due to its stretchiness. The amount of stretch can vary depending on the blend of fibres and the percentage of elastane or spandex used in the fabric. Generally, stretch cotton feels smooth and breathable, making it a popular choice for a wide range of garments, from fitted tops and dresses to comfortable loungewear and activewear.
At Wallington Sewing TheraBee, we offer a variety of stretch cotton fabrics in different weights, colours, and patterns. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect stretch cotton for your project and provide you with expert advice on sewing with this versatile fabric.
In addition to stretch cotton, we offer a wide range of other fabrics, including rayon, Ponte Roma, and lurex. Our TheraBee sessions are designed to provide a therapeutic sewing environment for the local community, where participants can gain sewing experience, make new friends, and enjoy sewing in company. We also provide all the equipment, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own.
Thank you for considering Wallington Sewing TheraBee for all your fabric needs. We look forward to helping you with your next project!
