Sewing with stretch fabric opens up a world of possibilities for creating comfortable, stylish, and functional garments like leggings, T-shirts, and activewear. However, many beginners find stretchy fabrics intimidating due to their elasticity, which can cause puckering, skipped stitches, or stretching out of shape.
In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll break down how to sew stretch fabric successfully, including the best fabrics for stretchy projects, essential sewing techniques, machine settings, and expert tips to help you master sewing knits with confidence!
Why Sew with Stretch Fabric?
Stretch fabrics, such as jersey, spandex blends, and ribbed knits, are widely used for clothing, activewear, and loungewear because they offer:
✅ Comfort: The elasticity of stretch fabric allows for greater movement and flexibility.
✅ Versatility: Perfect for leggings, tops, dresses, and fitted garments.
✅ No-Fray Edges: Unlike woven fabrics, many knits don’t require finishing.
✅ Modern, Ready-to-Wear Look: Most store-bought garments are made with stretch fabrics, so sewing with them lets you achieve professional-looking results at home.
Now, let’s go over the best stretch fabrics for beginners and how to work with them successfully.
Best Fabric for Sewing Stretchy Projects
1. Jersey Knit: The Best Fabric for T-Shirts & Dresses
Jersey knit is a lightweight, breathable fabric with a natural stretch that makes it ideal for casual wear like T-shirts, wrap dresses, and lounge pants.
✔ Pros: Soft, comfortable, easy to sew
❌ Cons: Can curl at the edges, requires proper hemming
🌟 Best for: T-shirts, casual dresses, lightweight leggings
2. Spandex Blends: Best Fabric for Leggings & Activewear
Spandex (also known as Lycra or elastane) is a highly elastic fabric that offers exceptional stretch and recovery, making it ideal for leggings, yoga pants, and athletic wear.
✔ Pros: Super stretchy, durable, moisture-wicking
❌ Cons: Can be slippery and challenging to sew without the right tools
🌟 Best for: Leggings, sportswear, fitted tops
3. Ribbed Knit: Best Fabric for Fitted Tops & Cuffs
Ribbed knit has a textured, raised pattern that allows it to stretch more than standard jersey. It’s often used for fitted tops, cuffs, and trim details.
✔ Pros: Soft, flexible, holds shape well
❌ Cons: Can stretch out over time if not sewn properly
🌟 Best for: Tank tops, cuffs, neckbands
Tips for Sewing Stretch Fabric Without Frustration
1. Use the Right Needle
Choosing the correct needle is crucial for sewing stretchy fabric without skipped stitches.
✔ Use a Ballpoint or Stretch Needle (Size 75/11 or 90/14):
- A ballpoint needle has a rounded tip that glides between fabric fibers instead of piercing them.
- A stretch needle works well with very elastic fabrics like spandex or ribbed knits.
2. Select the Right Stitch for Stretch Fabric
A standard straight stitch won’t work on stretchy fabric—it will break when the fabric stretches. Instead, use:
✔ Zigzag Stitch: Allows flexibility and movement
✔ Stretch Stitch (Lightning Bolt Stitch): Ideal for high-stretch fabrics
✔ Twin Needle Stitch: Creates a professional-looking hem
💡 Pro Tip: Always test stitches on scrap fabric before sewing your final project!
3. Adjust Machine Settings for Better Results
To prevent your fabric from getting stretched out while sewing:
✔ Reduce the Presser Foot Pressure: This prevents stretching as the fabric feeds through.
✔ Use a Walking Foot or Knit Foot: Helps feed the fabric evenly.
✔ Adjust Stitch Length: Set a zigzag stitch to 2.5-3.0 mm for best results.
4. Prevent Fabric from Curling
Some stretch fabrics, like jersey knits, tend to curl at the edges, making them difficult to sew.
✔ Use a Spray Starch or Fabric Stabilizer to stiffen edges before sewing.
✔ Try a Walking Foot to feed fabric evenly.
✔ Sew with a Slight Stretch: Gently stretch the fabric while sewing to prevent puckering.
5. How to Hem Stretch Fabric Without Wavy Edges
One of the trickiest parts of sewing stretchy fabric is hemming. To get a professional, non-wavy finish:
✔ Use a Twin Needle for a polished, ready-to-wear hem.
✔ Try a Coverstitch Machine (if available) for store-bought quality.
✔ Apply Fusible Hem Tape for stability before sewing.
Best Patterns for Stretch Fabric Projects
If you're new to sewing stretchy fabric, start with simple, beginner-friendly patterns:
✅ Easy T-Shirt Pattern – Perfect for jersey knit
✅ Basic Leggings Pattern – Great introduction to sewing spandex
✅ Stretchy Pencil Skirt – A simple yet stylish project
✅ Ribbed Tank Top – Great for summer wear
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Sewing Stretch Fabric
🚫 Using the Wrong Needle – Always choose a ballpoint or stretch needle.
🚫 Sewing with a Straight Stitch – It will break when stretched.
🚫 Skipping the Test Stitch – Always sew on a scrap before your final piece.
🚫 Stretching Fabric Too Much While Sewing – Gently guide it instead.
🚫 Forgetting to Wash & Pre-Shrink Fabric – Some stretchy fabrics shrink after washing.
Where to Buy the Best Stretch Fabrics?
At All About Fabrics, we offer a wide selection of high-quality stretch fabrics, including jersey knits, spandex blends, and ribbed knits—perfect for all your sewing projects!
🌟 Why Shop With Us?
✔ Huge selection of premium stretch fabrics
✔ Competitive pricing with bulk discounts available
✔ Fast shipping across the USA and Canada
✔ Trusted by thousands of fabric lovers
Final Thoughts
Sewing with stretch fabric doesn’t have to be difficult! By choosing the right fabric, using proper techniques, and adjusting your machine settings, you’ll be able to sew beautiful, comfortable, and long-lasting garments with ease.
At All About Fabrics, we provide the best stretch fabrics and sewing supplies to help you succeed. Whether you’re making leggings, tops, or sportswear, our selection of high-quality knit fabrics will set you up for success.