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Sewing Tips: The Art of Sewing: Techniques and Tips for Success

Published Oct 01, 23
3 min read


Introduction

Sewing is a wonderful skill that allows you to express your creativity and create beautiful garments from scratch. One area of sewing that many people find challenging is working with knit fabrics. Unlike woven fabrics, knit fabrics have more stretch and require different stitching techniques to ensure a professional-looking finish. In this article, we will explore the essential stitches for sewing knit fabrics and provide you with the necessary knowledge to tackle your next knit fabric project with confidence.

1. Straight Stitch

The straight stitch is the most basic and commonly used stitch in sewing. It is formed by inserting the needle through the fabric and pulling it up to create a straight line. When sewing knit fabrics, it is essential to use a stretch or ballpoint needle and a longer stitch length to accommodate the fabric's stretch. This stitch is suitable for basic seams and topstitching on knit fabrics.

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2. Zigzag Stitch

The zigzag stitch is another essential stitch for sewing knit fabrics. It provides extra stretch and prevents the seams from popping or breaking when the fabric stretches. The zigzag stitch is formed by alternating between a forward and backward motion of the needle while moving it from side to side. Adjust the stitch length and width to achieve the desired appearance and functionality.

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3. Double Needle Stitch

The double needle stitch is a great way to create professional-looking hems on knit fabrics. It creates two parallel lines of stitching on the top and a zigzag stitch on the bottom, providing both stretch and durability. To achieve this stitch, you'll need a double needle and two spools of thread. It's important to use a stretch or ballpoint needle to prevent the fabric from getting damaged.

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4. Overlock Stitch

The overlock stitch, also known as a serged stitch, is commonly used for finishing raw edges on knit fabrics. It creates a clean and professional-looking edge by simultaneously trimming the excess fabric and enclosing the raw edge with thread. The overlock stitch is typically done using a serger machine, which has multiple threads and loopers. If you don't have access to a serger machine, you can achieve a similar effect using a zigzag stitch on a regular sewing machine.

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5. Stretch Blind Hem Stitch

The stretch blind hem stitch is ideal for creating invisible hems on knit fabrics. It is formed by using a blind hem foot on your sewing machine, which guides the fabric and creates small zigzag stitches that catch the folded edge of the fabric. The stretch blind hem stitch gives the hem enough stretch to prevent it from popping or breaking when the fabric moves.

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Conclusion

Sewing knit fabrics can be a daunting task, but with the right stitches and techniques, you can achieve beautiful and professional results. The essential stitches mentioned in this article are the building blocks for sewing knit fabrics. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sewer, mastering these stitches will greatly improve your sewing skills and open up a world of possibilities for your next project.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a regular straight stitch on knit fabrics?

A: While you can use a regular straight stitch on knit fabrics, it is recommended to use a stretch or ballpoint needle and a longer stitch length to accommodate the fabric's stretch. This will prevent the seams from breaking when the fabric stretches.

Q: What is the purpose of a zigzag stitch in sewing knit fabrics?

A: The zigzag stitch provides extra stretch and prevents seams from popping or breaking when the fabric stretches. It is a versatile stitch that can be adjusted in terms of stitch length and width to achieve the desired appearance and functionality.

Q: Can I achieve an overlock stitch without a serger machine?

A: Yes, you can achieve a similar effect to an overlock stitch using a zigzag stitch on a regular sewing machine. Simply adjust the stitch width and length to enclose the raw edge and prevent fraying.
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