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.
Sewing machine needles for stretch fabric
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.
Thread for stretch fabric
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)
Threads - Polyester & Woolly Nylon
 Wind bobbin with woolly nylon |  Polyester thread through needle & woolly nylon in the bobbin |
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.
