Do you want to learn how to sew with knit fabric? Knit fabrics can be a joy to sew and wear. Knits are versatile and can be used to create a beautiful, functional wardrobe that is suitable for any season. Knit Fabrics can have a frightening reputation when you start learning to sew. Due to the rise of custom fabrics, traditional knits have become difficult to find and are now easy to sew. Knits can be a joy to make and are easy to wear. Before you start sewing, it is a good idea to learn about the best practices.
This guide will give you some tips and tricks that will help you feel confident when sewing with knit fabric. It also explains how to finish any knitting project.
What Is Knit Fabric?
There are two types of fabric in the world: knit and woven. The warp and weft are the two main types of woven fabrics. Knit fabric is made with continuous yarn loops to create a braided, interlocking appearance.
Knit Fabric Characteristics
Knit fabrics are naturally stretchy. Some fabrics have two-way stretch, while others have four-way. Knits are therefore known as negative ease.
This means that a knit garment will be much smaller than your body. It will fit perfectly over your body. Knit fabrics are highly flexible and have a soft texture. Knit fabrics are easier to work with but can be more difficult to handle.
They may curl up or pucker as they are used. Knit fabrics are less prone to fraying, and so they don't need to be finished the same way as woven fabrics. However, finishing seams or using an Overlocker will give you a professional and lasting finish.
How can I Choose The Right Knit Fabric?
There are many different weights and stretches of knit fabrics. Learn about the various types of knit fabrics, how they are identified, and which ones will be best for your project before you begin sewing.
1. Jersey
Jersey is the most popular type of knit fabric. It is also what basic T-shirts are made from. Jersey fabric uses a single needle, which works similarly to knitting needles. It is used to knit and purl rows.
Jersey is light and drapey, making it easy to wear.
Jersey can stretch quite well but may not recover from stretching.
Jersey can be divided into two sides. The right side is represented by the V-shaped knit stitches.
Its edges curl towards the right or to the wrong when pulled.
This knit fabric is ideal for sewing top-half-body clothes: pullovers, T-shirts, and blouses.
2. Double knit
Double knit fabrics are made with multiple needles. Two layers of fabric. This is because the sides of the fabric are identical, and the fabric is slightly stronger. Double knits can also be called Ponte, interlock, or heavy knit. They are an excellent starting point for beginners because they are easier to manage.
Double knits may stretch but not as much as jersey. Use the stretch gauge on your pattern.
The fabric can be used on both sides.
It is stiffer than a jersey, less smooth, and doesn't roll as well.
It hugged the body tighter than a jersey, which highlights curves and shapes.
Double knit fabric is strong and can be used for garments with more body-like structured dresses, skirts, or jackets.
Double knit fabric is also ideal for tighter-fitting garments such as leggings and trousers.
3. Sweater knits
These fabrics are exactly what they sound like. These fabrics are typically more defined and have more "fuzziness". These fabrics are similar to a hand-knit sweater. They can be heavy or light, and used for casual tops as well as winter jackets.
You may be able to see individual stitches better if the yarn is thicker.
It is much stronger and more durable than double or jersey knits.
It is not as stretchy and does not recover well from being stretched.
Sweater knits can unravel or fray.
Sweater knits work well for sweaters, as you've probably guessed. Many options are depending on the fabric.
You can use lighter sweater knits for summer cardigans or heavier sweater knits for a structured winter jacket.
4. Knits for the Modern Woman
This category serves as a sort of catch-all, for all other knits. A fabric may be a novelty knit if it doesn't fit into any of the categories above. These fabrics often have a unique texture or pattern.
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