Tips for Sewing Knits and Stretchy Fabric

Fabric is available in all different weaves and forms. A knit fabric is one that is made up of loops of fibers versus fibers that are woven horizontally and vertically or just fibers that are smashed together. Because of the loops, knit fabrics stretch. They might stretch from every direction or they might only stretch in one direction.

You must know what the stretch is and how much stretch the fabric has in order to work with a pattern designed for knit fabrics. The information you need is on the pattern envelope. There is usually a graphic that will say X” of fabric must stretch to X”. It also will state if the stretch needs to be one way or two way. You also must pay attention to the direction of the stretch in laying out pattern pieces. These are important factors in having the sewn item fit properly.