Sweater Knit Guide - Tips & Tricks

Hello there! I hope you’re all enjoying sewing with our boat-load of new fabrics; it seems like we are listing new dress fabrics all the time around here and there is certainly plenty to be looking at. Today, we're going to be taking a closer look at some of my personal fave fabrics. I love a good sweater knit fabric and there is nothing better than finding your new go-to sweater sewing pattern and seeing it made up into all the different types of chunky knit, boucle, cable and rope knits, printed and plains that we stock here.

Whether you're new to the sewing scene or a seasoned pro, working with sweater knits can sometimes present a unique set of challenges. But fear not! With the right guidance and a sprinkle of creativity, you'll be crafting your own snug creations in no time.

Why Choose Sweater Knits?

Sweater knits are wonderfully versatile and come in an array of textures, weights, and stretch capabilities. They're perfect for creating everything from lightweight cardigans that are ideal for a breezy summer evening to thick, cuddly jumpers that keep you warm on the chilliest of winter days. We've picked a selection of sweater knits that cater to all your crafting needs. From bold patterns to subtle hues, our collection is sure to inspire your next project.

Tips for Sewing with Sweater Knits

1. Choosing the Right Needle: A ballpoint or stretch needle is your best friend when it comes to sewing sweater knits. These needles are designed to slip between the fabric yarns, not pierce them, preventing snags and runs.

2. Stabilising Seams: To keep your seams from stretching out of shape, consider stabilising them with clear elastic or a strip of lightweight knit interfacing. This is especially helpful for shoulder seams and neckline edges.

3. Test Your Stitch: Before diving into your project, take a moment to test your stitch on a scrap piece of the knit fabric you'll be using. This helps ensure the tension is just right and that your fabric doesn't pucker or stretch undesirably.

4. Finishing Edges: Sweater knits can be prone to fraying, so finishing your edges is crucial. An overlocker is ideal for this task, but if you don't have one, a wide zigzag stitch along the edge will do the trick.

Stabilising your seams with elastic	Use an overlocker to finish your eges	Or a zig-zag stitch

Tips for Caring for your Sweater Knit Creations

Washing with Care: Always check the care instructions for your specific sweater knit fabric. Most sweater knits do best with hand washing in cool water with a gentle detergent. If you must use a washing machine, opt for a gentle cycle and place the garment in a mesh laundry bag to protect it.

Drying: Avoid wringing out your knitwear, as this can distort the shape. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water and lay the item flat on a clean towel to dry. Reshape it while it's still damp, and avoid hanging, as this can cause stretching.

Storage: Store your sweater knit garments folded rather than hung to prevent stretching. For added protection against moths, consider storing them with cedar blocks or lavender sachets.

Pilling: Over time, some sweater knits may begin to pill. Use a fabric shaver or a sweater comb to gently remove pills and keep your garments looking new.

Follow wash/care advice on fabrics - test a sample if unsure	Try folding rather than hanging to prevent any stretching	Remove bobbles using a shaver or specialised remover

Personalising Your Sewing Projects: Adding a Touch of You

One of the joys of sewing is the ability to create something uniquely yours. Here are some ideas for personalising your sweater knit projects:

1. Embellishments: Add a personal touch with embellishments like embroidery, fabric appliqués, or decorative buttons. Even a simple embroidered detail on the cuff or hem can transform a basic garment into something special.

2. Custom Labels: Create or order custom labels to sew into your garments. They can include your name, the creation date, or a personal message if you're gifting the item.

3. Mix and Match Fabrics: Don't be afraid to mix sweater knits with other types of fabric. A contrasting fabric for cuffs, collars, or a hem band can add an interesting and personal touch.

4. Play with Patterns: Adjusting patterns to suit your style or body type is a great way to personalise your projects. Whether it's lengthening a jumper for a tunic-style fit or adding a flare to sleeves, small adjustments can make a big difference.

5. Colour Blocking: Use different colours or textures of sweater knits within the same project for a bold, custom look. This is a great way to use up scraps from previous projects too!

Wrapping Up

Sewing with sweater knits opens up a world of possibilities for creating garments that are not only stylish but also incredibly comfortable. With these tips and tricks up your sleeve, you're well on your way to mastering the art of working with these versatile fabrics. Remember, every project is a learning experience and an opportunity to infuse your unique style into your creations. Happy sewing!