Want to start sewing with knit fabrics but don't know where to begin? Well, you've come to the right place! Whether you've yet to dip your toe into the wonderful world of sewing with stretch fabrics, or you've got a few projects under your belt but you want to take it to the next level, this master blog post with our tips for sewing with knit fabric will have you well on your way to the comfiest handmade wardrobe possible.
Can I sew knit fabrics on a regular sewing machine?
Absolutely! While overlockers or sergers are great for handling stretch fabrics and creating a professional-looking finish (keep reading for more on this!), you don’t necessarily need one to sew with knits - hurrah! If you’ve got an adjustable zigzag stitch on your regular sewing machine, you can use that instead.
For more, check out Tilly's tips for sewing knit fabrics on a regular sewing machine.
What sewing patterns to use
Lucky for you, we can recommend a wide range of stretch sewing projects using our award-winning, jargon-busting sewing patterns. But we're not just talking about basic tops (although we do love the basics!), we've also got gorgeous designs for a wide range of garments and abilities including our Drew sweatshirt, Billie sweatshirt, Cece joggers and shorts, Erin dungarees, the Iris knickers and our simple to sew Lotta dress. But don't just take our word for it, explore our collection of stretch sewing projects in our knits edit...
Tilly's Stretch! Sewing Book
Learn to sew knits with online workshops
If you want to get the skills, knowledge and confidence to sew stretch knit fabrics, we've got just the class for you. Our online sewing workshops can be taken from the comfort of your own home, whenever you like, as many times as you like, with no deadlines.
Learn to use your regular sewing machine to sew a fitted Agnes jersey top (or three!) in our Learn to Sew Jersey Tops online workshop. Tilly will guide through choosing the right fabrics, how to choose your size and cut your project, essential stitching techniques & lots more!
Want to learn to use an overlocker (AKA serger)? Our bestselling class, Make Friends with an Overlocker or Serger, will get you feeling confident threading up, adjusting the settings, troubleshooting common issues, and using this amazing machine to whip up garments in stretch knit fabrics using the three or four thread stitch.
Once you've got to grips with the theory, put those skills into practice with our follow on workshop, Sew a Sweatshirt on an Overlocker or Serger. You will never look back!
Fancy advancing your garment sewing prowess? Check out our other classes, including Learn to Sew Knickers and Learn to Sew Swimwear.
Free knit sewing tips and tutorials
Did you know the Tilly and the Buttons blog is over 10 years old?! That means we've got a jam-packed archive of sewing tutorials and tips waiting for you, including plenty for guiding you through your stretch sewing adventure.
Don't miss these highlights:
- How to Cut Knit Fabric
- Tips For Sewing With Sweatshirt Fabrics
- Five Tips for Sewing with Ponte
- How to Sew a Jersey Neckband
- How to Sew Buttonholes on Knit Fabric
- How to do a Full Bust Adjustment on Knits
Now there's nothing stopping you! You're ready to tackle your next knit sewing project with confidence.
If you liked this post, check out Tips For Making A Jersey Bettine Dress!
