Six Knit Sewing Tips

Six knit garment sewing tips by tv host Nancy Zieman

Six Knit Sewing Tips

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Six knit garment sewing tips by tv host Nancy ZiemanFind success sewing with knits using six of my favorite sewing tips. Follow the simple less is best principles and you’ll find knit garments are quite fun and approachable for most sewing skill levels. Here are a few tips that might help you with your next (or first) knit sewing project.

Six Easy Knit Sewing Tips

Tip #1:  Choose an easy pattern

McCalls 7331 Nancy Zieman

McCalls 7331 by Nancy Zieman

  • Look for styles and shapes with few seams, letting the drape of the fabric be the star.

Tip #2: Sew simple

McCalls 7152 by Nancy Zieman

McCalls 7152 by Nancy Zieman

  •  If you’re a serger owner, here’s where a 4-thread overlock stitch should be used. It’s fast, easy, and the seam will stretch.

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  • When using a conventional sewing machine, try a “wobble” stitch. First coined by Betty Cotton of quilting fame, this narrow zigzag (.5 width and 2.5 length) has an ever-so-slight zigzag, providing a little stretch in the seam while looking like a straight seam from the right side.

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Tip #3: Sew in some stretch

McCalls 7353 by Nancy Zieman

McCalls 7353 by Nancy Zieman

  • Stabilize the shoulders of knit fabrics with clear elastic. Serge or wobble stitch over the seam, stitching over the elastic. The shoulder seams will stretch when needed without stretching out of shape or popping stitches. This tip works on shoulder seams of any length.

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Tip #4: Serge off the hem

McCalls 6607 by Nancy Zieman

McCalls 6607 by Nancy Zieman

  • If you’re looking at a knit pattern with a shaped hem, make it easy on yourself; let your serger do the work. Use a 3-thread overlock stitch and serge along the hemline.
  • To keep the knit from stretching, serge over strips of wash-away stabilizer. Place the strips on the wrong side of the fabric and then serge. After serging, tear away the excess stabilizer. Presto, no stretching. (The stabilizer is what you see on the wrong side of the fabric in the photos below.)
  • Serge each edge individually, don’t try to turn the corner. Tuck the thread tail to the wrong side and hand stitch the thread tail to the seam. Clip off the excess thread. It’s fast!

PB300150

PB300151

 

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Tip #5: Double fold the edges

McCalls 7252 by Nancy Zieman

McCalls 7252 by Nancy Zieman

  • With knits, very few patterns have facings to finish the edges, one layer of fabric is all that’s used. Consider finishing the edges with a double fold.
  • Fold and press under 1/4″ and straight or wobble stitch. Stitch one edge (center front seam in this example) and then the hemline. Before stitching the hemline’s double fold, place a scrap of fabric under the presser foot, stitch from the scrap (or anchor cloth as I like to call it) to the fabric. This anchor allows you to easily sew the thick area at the corner with even stitches.

  • Clip off the anchor cloth when finished.

Tip #6: Hem with fusible tape

McCalls 7290 by Nancy Zieman

McCalls 7290 by Nancy Zieman

  •  Press Pellon Lite EZ-Steam IIa 1/2″ wide paper-backed fusible webalong the wrong side of the hem’s outer edges.

How to Hem Knit Garments by Nancy Zieman

How to Hem Knit Garments by Nancy Zieman.

How to Hem Knit Garments by Nancy Zieman.

  • Remove the paper backing; then press the hem to the wrong side–at the edge of the tape. The fusible webbing provides extra stability and shaping.

How to Hem Knit Garments by Nancy Zieman.

  • Straight stitch or wobble stitch the hem. How to Hem Knit Garments by Nancy Zieman.

Give these tips a try!

Six tips for sewing knit garments by Nancy Zieman

Watch Sew a Knit Wardrobe from Start to Finish on Sewing With Nancy online.

How to Sew a Knit Wardrobe from Start to Finish with Nancy Zieman

For a chance to win a copy of my McCalls M7331 Knit Collection Pattern, please leave a comment below and let us know what view you’d like to make. The McCall Pattern Company will give away one pattern to one US resident in the 48 contiguous states.

Knit Garment Collection Sewing Pattern M7331 by Nancy Zieman and McCalls Pattern CompanyBye for now,

Nancy Zieman The Blog

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108 Comments

  • Betsy
    May 6, 2017

    I love the cardi-jacket above (McCalls 7290). Thanks for a great blog post!

  • Beth Piper
    May 6, 2017

    HI Nancy,

    I’d love to made the 2nd photo. View ABC the cardigan, top, and skirt. That’s such a nice classic look.

  • Anne Z
    May 6, 2017

    I love view ABD. Thanks for the knit sewing tips.

  • Arlene Murphy
    May 6, 2017

    Thanks for all the great tips #

  • Charlene Hamby
    May 6, 2017

    Thanks so much for the tips. I just purchased my first babylock serger. I am looking forward to making items on it. I like the pattern 7290.
    Charlene Hamby

  • Marsha Dimond
    May 6, 2017

    I am an ABC type of gal. My favorite look is when the two tops match and the bottom is the contrast. Love working with knit fabrics.

  • Clovis
    May 6, 2017

    Thanks for the tips. I like the shoulder tip. My stitch came out years ago. I would love to make pattern numbers 7331 & 7290. Thanks.

  • Peggy S
    May 6, 2017

    bd or abd

  • Sandy
    May 6, 2017

    This comes at a perfect time for me. After quilting for years I recently decided to try something new. I’m in the middle of my second knit top, trying to improve from the first, and am already looking for ways to make a third one. The cardigan looks tempting…although I’d also like to try some pants.

  • Ennis A
    May 6, 2017

    Will love to use my BL serger on this pattern. Especially the open cardigan. Great info!!

  • Jan Kanoy
    May 6, 2017

    I bought some knit fabric but the pattern I bought I couldn’t use the jacket pattern. I like the M7331. Jacket for the fabric I have.
    All the knit hits are very helpful Thank you.

  • Maria Merante
    May 6, 2017

    ABD- perfect for the classroom!

  • Shaela
    May 6, 2017

    I’d like to make the skirt and pants

  • Mary Huerter
    May 6, 2017

    I would like to try view ABD ! Love the pattern !

  • DIANA MILLER
    May 6, 2017

    Love these patterns! Going to the store this morning…..I feel confident in using these techniques……hope turns out great on the knit I have been eyeing for while.

  • Midge
    May 6, 2017

    I’d like to make ABC view. Love the longer tops!

  • Jane
    May 6, 2017

    View ABD. I travel for business so whether it’s car, train, or plane, layering and slacks always works best. And knits! Can’t do without. Thanks for all the tips, Nancy!

  • Marcy
    May 6, 2017

    I love A B and C. I would do 2 or 3 sets in neutral tones or pastel coordinating colors and I’m ready for a road trip!
    Thanks Nancy

  • Rita Long
    May 6, 2017

    I like the top center. It is the slim skirt top and jacket.

  • Mary Phelan
    May 6, 2017

    I LOVE Nancy’s patterns & books!!!! I made her knit outfit with the pants, skirt, top & jacket 3 times this past fall. Fantastic results, great directions.

  • Judy Garvin
    May 6, 2017

    I would like to make the shirt and jacket. I just took a class in sewing knits last week and I am really ready to get back into making more.

  • Sharon Kirry
    May 6, 2017

    ABD. Actually love them all❤️

  • Melanie
    May 6, 2017

    Love that jacket!

  • nancy lewis
    May 6, 2017

    I love sewing with knits. Your tips are amazing!! I try to make some knit tops for each season and am always looking for tips to make them more professional. Thanks so much!!

  • Linda E in AZ
    May 6, 2017

    I’d like to make that ensemble – looks like a great collection. Thanks for all of the tips!

  • Cynthia Willis
    May 6, 2017

    I would sew the basic four pieces as shown, make the 3/4 sleeve in a print to coordinate and maybe a vest by leaving the sleeves off the jacket. A great capsule wardrobe for any season!

  • Tamra
    May 6, 2017

    The bottom right view (ABD) is my favorite one. A great look for many occasions. Thanks for making these patterns Nancy!

  • Linda Brngal
    May 6, 2017

    Love knits, but I always seem to draw a blank on the best way to handle different areas of the garment. I have to keep practicing.

  • Anita C
    May 6, 2017

    ABC looks great!

  • Kristin Farwig
    May 6, 2017

    I love McCalls pattern 7252!

  • Jackie
    May 6, 2017

    I love 7353, especially with the cowl neckline. Very stylish!

  • Michele Brakewood
    May 6, 2017

    I have been sewing for about 60 years, and am still hesitant about sewing knits. Maybe once I have as much practiced with knits as I do with wovens, I’ll be more comfortable. Somehow, I doubt I’ll be around for another 60 years.

  • Terry
    May 6, 2017

    I would make vie ABD

  • Jamie Kimbrough
    May 6, 2017

    Thank you SO much for these tips! I have just returned to sewing since retiring, over 30 years absent, and have been somewhat intimidated by the process of sewing knits. After countless YouTubes and Pinterest pins, I appreciate these useful tips in one spot! If chosen for the free pattern, I would like to sew the sleeveless cowl neck tunic. Thank you, again!

  • Kay Stanczyk
    May 6, 2017

    I have been sewing knits since the 1970’s and love their ease of sewing, fit, and launderability. I am looking to make a capsule wardrobe for a cruise later in the year no this pattern clearly fits the bill. Thanks, Nancy

  • Kay Stanczyk
    May 6, 2017

    I have been sewing knits since the 1970’s and love their ease of sewing, fit, and launderability. I am looking to make a capsule wardrobe for a cruise later in the year so this pattern clearly fits the bill. Thanks, Nancy

  • Lois V
    May 6, 2017

    Have been looking at this pattern for some time because I really like the ABD view

  • Joyce W.
    May 6, 2017

    I like the skirt, shirt and jacket outfit in the top center picture. In the past I have not sewn knits because the seams and hems never laid down smoothly. Thanks for the tips that would help correct these problems.

  • Beth Balius
    May 6, 2017

    I love sewing on knits. I especially like well fitting knit pants. Thanks for the tips.

  • Noreen
    May 6, 2017

    Sewing hems with knit fabric usually results in a stretched look. These tips should certainly create better looking hems.

  • Zohra S Arastu
    May 6, 2017

    I am always skeptical about sewing some of the lovely knit fabrics I have and keep putting it off. The “C” view in 7290 is the one I would like to make (increasing the length to 50″, It will be a treat to myself.

  • Shelley
    May 6, 2017

    I love your patterns! I’ve been sewing knits since the beginning of Stetch and Sew in the 70’s and I still enjoy reading and using new tips to make sewing easier! Thank You!!

  • Carol Rechtoris
    May 6, 2017

    Sewing knits are fun and what creative opportunities!

  • Beth K
    May 6, 2017

    View B and D would be my selection. So excited – I broke down and bought a serger!

  • Linda Willman
    May 6, 2017

    Really like the ABD ensemble. Appreciate the great tips!

  • Debbie E
    May 6, 2017

    The tip about using wash away stabilizer in serged hems is perfect.

  • Cecilia Huether
    May 6, 2017

    I love these patterns. Have not seen on knits on a while, and sure would love to win this pattern. Your tips are so helpful, thank you. Cecilia

  • BevM
    May 6, 2017

    I would like to sew the 3/4 length sleeve top and the loose jacket with slacks (A, B, D.)

  • Carol
    May 6, 2017

    I would like the try the jacket. I am trying to overcome my knit phobia and all these tips hel.

  • Carol
    May 6, 2017

    I would like the try the jacket. I am trying to overcome my knit phobia and all these tips help.

  • Janet Anderson
    May 6, 2017

    I really like McCalls #7290, View C, especially. It’s double-sided, and I would like make a few in kelly green and yellow gold, our school colors, with corresponding fabrics, to celebrate the 90th year of my High School, Crispus Attucks in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are a Legacy High School and are on the Historic Register. I am the Recording Secretary in my National Association, and I am in front of everyone at meetings. I would love to stand up and flounce this cutie around, as I am 5’7 and with my height, it would look great on me. The pattern has a lot of flair. Love your site and all of the terrific ideas and tips that you share. I’ve been a loyal follower of Nancy Zieman ever since 1971. I actually learned how to sew watching her 30 minute tv programs:) Good luck to you always!

  • Helen in KY
    May 6, 2017

    Love these knits and all the helpful hints on making knit garments look so professional. A very versatile pattern.Thanks Nancy

  • Diann Kollman
    May 6, 2017

    I have some these patterns already, but I am interested in pattern McCalls 7290 by Nancy Zieman. The jacket like sweater is perfect for southern winters.

  • Oma GL
    May 6, 2017

    Haven’t done any garment sewing for awhile and the knits make me want to sew clothing again

  • Ruth Chaney
    May 6, 2017

    I like using McCall patterns and especially like the ABD and ABC versions of McCalls M7331 Knit Collection Pattern. Of course, satisfaction dealing with Nancy’s Notions is without question. Thank you!

  • Evie
    May 6, 2017

    I would like to make the ABC view. I make things for my family all of the time. Perhaps it is time for grandma to make herself something nice…and easy!

  • Bonnye
    May 6, 2017

    I like 7252 pattern. I do like to work with knits and the patterns are great.

  • Betty Felts
    May 6, 2017

    I would like to try the abd outfit. New to sewing knits and this looks like a good place to start. (McCalls 7290)

  • Maryann
    May 6, 2017

    I would like to make the B,B,D view. I have only sewn on knit once and it was a very simple jammie pants and tank top. They came out alright. However, I would like to make the A,B & D view of the pattern to get more practice. I find knits work on my figure easier that non stretch material as I do not know how to adjust patterns to fit me correctly on non stretch materials.

  • Sherry Bartlett
    May 6, 2017

    I haven’t sewn much with knits, but would like to try the ABD view of this pattern. I feel that knit fabric would be easier to fit, and I’m not proficient at fitting.

  • Joyce Leary
    May 6, 2017

    I have always loved sewing with knits – they are so easy. Haven’t done much of it since my “Stretch and Sew” days but remember them fondly and this makes me want to do it again!
    Thanks.

  • Kathleen Sergas
    May 6, 2017

    View A, B, C is my choice. This looks like a very comfortable outfit.

  • Kathy
    May 6, 2017

    I have a babylock serger and a Destiny machine but I have never sewn knits. I have a fear of knits so I stay away from them but if I did try it would be the ABD view that I would try. I enjoy you videos Nancy you always make things easier.

  • Pat Klaiber
    May 6, 2017

    I would like to make the A,B & D view of the pattern. I have been collecting knits to make myself a new wardrobe after losing some weight and also “culling” out my closets. It’s been a while since I have used my serger for garments. I usually use it to edge-finish when doing alterations or making home-dec items. Love to watch Sewing With Nancy because her instructions and demos make everything so “approachable.”

  • Mary Green
    May 6, 2017

    I still haven’t taken the plunge to get back to sewing for myself but this shell top looks like something I could do and enjoy wearing.

  • Lynn F
    May 6, 2017

    I need to seriously improve my wardrobe and toss my bad fitting jeans. ABD would do wonders! Great tips, too! Thank you.

  • Kay
    May 6, 2017

    I have loved sewing with knits since Stretch & Sew! They have some really beautiful fabrics for it now.

  • suzanne guthrie
    May 6, 2017

    I think I would do ABC haven’t done many knits, but would be good to develop new skills.

  • Kacie
    May 6, 2017

    Definitely the cardigan View A, need some to update my spring summer wardrobe

  • Steph C
    May 6, 2017

    The 2nd photo (ABC) looks really nice

  • Mary Ellen
    May 6, 2017

    I really like the open cardigan top. These hints make me want to try “again” to make more knits with my Serger. Fear of making a mistake keeps me from trying.
    Thank you to Nancy for the tips and also to McCalls.

    • Gwen Martin
      May 7, 2017

      I agree with you, the fear of making a mistake keeps me from trying.

  • Tina
    May 6, 2017

    I would choose A and B. Thanks for all your helpful hints. My daughter wants to learn to sew knits and this would be a great start.

  • Deanna
    May 6, 2017

    I’d like to make all the pieces in colors to coordinate with each other.

  • LinWould love to make ABCda Heckman
    May 6, 2017

    Would love to make ABC!

  • Lani
    May 7, 2017

    I like the look of ABC – I haven’t seen knits in years but the pattern and hints from Nancy make me want to try!

  • Theresa Cussimanio
    May 7, 2017

    This would be a very versatile pattern. Thanks

  • Gwen Martin
    May 7, 2017

    I love the ABD styles,pants top and jacket. Having lost 35 pounds I can now wear this style of pants.

  • Britton Lina
    May 7, 2017

    I want to make the complete outfit, ABCD with coordinating knits that I can interchange.

  • April Martin
    May 7, 2017

    I want to make tha ABD -professional looking but not over the top!

  • Jodie S
    May 7, 2017

    I’m new to serger sewing, so I’ve been looking for easy garments to make as I gradually build my serger skills. This pattern is just what I’m looking for — clothes that are stylish and yet will stand the test of time. If I’m going to spend time making an outfit, I don’t want it to become dated overnight.

  • Juanita Vega DeJoseph
    May 7, 2017

    For work I would try ABD – the ensemble can add more polish to casual Fridays instead of jeans. Would definitely try the wobble stitch on my old reliable Singer 603.

  • Leslie Coduti
    May 7, 2017

    I would make the ABC view. Sewing with knits is my latest craze. This pattern looks adorable

  • Paula Wiseman
    May 7, 2017

    Lengthen view B.and you have a lovely dress.

  • Colleen Bunner
    May 7, 2017

    I would love to make a mix and match wardrobe and this pattern would be PERFECT!

  • Gloria McCulley
    May 8, 2017

    I love this pattern!, specifically view ABC. I plan to incorporate all of the wonderful tips into sewing knits. Thanks Nancy, for such valuable info!

  • Julie Kill
    May 8, 2017

    I Love the dress pattern for summer McCalls pattern (by you)!
    With your tips, I feel like I can actually make one! I’ve always had trouble with knit fabric stretching when stitching. Thank you for the problem-solving ideas! I’m going to try again!

  • Barbara Neeley
    May 8, 2017

    What a great idea to incorporate all the elements for a complete summer collection. This is a winner.

  • Cath
    May 8, 2017

    Wow, I think Nancy has really stepped up with all these designs. I put them all in my wishlist on my sewing ap.

  • L Watson
    May 8, 2017

    These are all great looks, I like the look of ABC a lot. However, I would actually end up wearing the comfy pants outfit ABD much more, and I also love that look also!

  • Peggy S
    May 8, 2017

    I would make the ABC outfit first. I have sewn on knit fabric before, but not the new knits. Would love this pattern to make some new outfits for summer. Nancy, you always give us such good information and make us feel like we can tackle anything. Thank your for all the great tips.

  • Joyce H.
    May 8, 2017

    Hi Nancy, I love them all, but would make View ABC first. I am new to sewing and have not sewn with knit fabric. From your tips, I think I could do it.

    Thank you for sharing your talents,
    Joyce

  • E. Watson
    May 9, 2017

    I would pick view ABC. Classy and comfortable 😉

  • Sarah
    May 9, 2017

    I like the cute skirt with the stylish multi-
    layered top. I love the color choices too!
    So, I like ABC.

  • Jean Droze
    May 9, 2017

    I love McCalls 7331. It is so versatile. You can choose fancy knits for a special event or casua knits for every day use. The styles will look good on any body type or heigth. Thank you for the great blog post, it was very helpful aand informative.

  • Cindy Charlton
    May 10, 2017

    I have just added 7331 to my wish list!

  • Kay Birnbaum
    May 11, 2017

    I would make ABD. I travel frequently and this is perfect for a professional, polished and comfortable look. I can go from the plane to the office and look great.

  • Donna Fecteau
    May 11, 2017

    Looks like an awesome pattern. I don’t wear skirts much any more so I’d like to make ABD (i work at a university, ABD stands for all but dissertation! love it.)

  • Dellene Swast
    May 12, 2017

    Love thiese ideas. i have been so scared to even try knits. These tips have helped ease so of these fears. Abcd would be awesome to make.

  • F. Pringle
    May 15, 2017

    I have a Baby Lock Serger and Sewing Machine and would love to try this pattern #7331 all view. Always watch Nancy and think her tips and instruction are great.

  • Lori
    May 16, 2017

    I have always always been disappointed when sewing with knits. I look forward to using the 7353 pattern and appreciate the tips to forge ahead with success!

  • Beverly
    May 16, 2017

    What a great collection for an easy to pack travel wardrobe. And the tips should make sewing these pieces so easy.

  • Ruth Williams
    May 23, 2017

    I would wear ABD
    I love knits – wash and wear and so comfortable

  • Marcie Fancey
    May 24, 2017

    All of them look great, but I’d especially love views A and D. I need layers to keep warm!

  • Mary Sias
    June 6, 2017

    I love ABC.

  • Pat Rick
    June 16, 2017

    I have already purchased the pattern, but I would love to have directions for ABC.I already get the posts also, but love the emails.

  • Zina Hardy
    July 7, 2017

    Would love to make view ABC. I just bought a new serger and would love to make this outfit. I love to watch Nancy Zieman and learn so much from her show. Also, love McCall’s patterns and thank them for the opportunity to win.

  • Brenda Jerles
    September 4, 2017

    I would like to make A B D. I need to find some beautiful knits like these!

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