Stretch fabrics are firmly established in everyday wear and in outfits for special occasions. These products fit comfortably around the body and are easy to clean. In order for clothes made of such fabric to please you for a long time, you need to know about some of the intricacies of its sewing.
It is necessary
Overlock, sewing machine, needles, feet, threads
Instructions
Step 1
Pay attention to the direction of the fabric tension when purchasing a stretch fabric. It can stretch in all directions, or it can be elastic only in the longitudinal or transverse direction. Elastic fabrics are distinguished by the presence of lycra threads. After stretching, such a material quickly regains its shape. Stretch fabrics can be based on velvet, crepe, jeans. From such materials, you can sew any clothes that will fit the figure beautifully, allowing you to move calmly and easily.
Step 2
Iron the fabric before sewing. The heating temperature is determined by the properties of the fibers of the material. For example, viscose, silk and lycra should not be heated too much. But cotton or wool with lycra can be ironed even through a damp cloth. Be sure to evaluate how much the elasticity of the fabric and its structure are preserved after ironing. Iron all material as it can shrink, lose its shape. Otherwise, when cutting, you will cut out parts that will stretch during sewing, will be uneven when stretched and will not "sit" on the figure.
Step 3
Carefully copy the seam lines. Use the end of a ballpoint pen or the dull side of a knife blade as a special wheel with sharp teeth can damage the fabric.
Step 4
Pay attention to the direction of tension on the fabric when cutting. For example, if you are sewing trousers with straps, then the fabric should stretch in the longitudinal direction. For regular trousers, it is better to use material that stretches in two directions. Cross-thread stretch fabrics, on the other hand, are ideal for sewing tight skirts and trousers, as well as for fitted jackets.
Step 5
Use a jersey or elastic sewing needle. The point of such needles is rounded, which guarantees soft penetration of the needle into the tissue and excludes its rupture. Consider the thickness of the fabric when selecting the foot, needle size and thread. Remember the most important thing - do not pull on the fabric when you sew!
Step 6
Use elastic seams. It is best to use an overlock according to the instructions provided. A zigzag stitch is often used on a conventional sewing machine. In this case, it is necessary to set a not very tight thread tension. Sewing machines with special elastic seams for stretch fabrics are now available. Keep in mind that twin needle seams will also retain elasticity if you sew along the right side of the garment.
