I've had numerous questions related to sewing stretch fabric with a sewing machine so thought that I would do a mini-series with some tips & techniques just for the sewing machine. Although a serger is ideal for working with stretch fabrics, it is very limited when sewing on a very small scale.
Needle & thread are basics needed to sew all fabrics however, selecting the ones best suited for stretch fabrics will make the project go so much more smoothly.
Needle & thread are basics needed to sew all fabrics however, selecting the ones best suited for stretch fabrics will make the project go so much more smoothly.
Choose a sewing machine needle designed for stretch fabrics - these have a ball point. Below are just 2 examples of specialty needles just for working with stretch fabric. Schmetz has a terrific guide explaining the different types of needles & usage: Schmetz Needle Guide.
Choosing the correct type of thread is also really important. When sewing with synthetic fabrics it is best to also use a synthetic thread to reduce thread snapping or breaking when the garment is put on. Woolly Nylon is marketed for sergers but works beautifully with sewing machines as well.
I use a combination of thread types that I have found to give me the best result - Polyester thread for the upper thread & Woolly Nylon for the lower or bobbin thread. Here is a comparison of the threads, polyester (left) & wolly nylon (right)
I think that I will create a new section in Tips/Techniques for this topic & add to it as the series goes...stay tuned.
I am in the process of designing some BJD pattern & will make the first one for a stretch fabric.
I am in the process of designing some BJD pattern & will make the first one for a stretch fabric.