Stretch Fabric

A: To sew stretchy fabric, use a ballpoint or stretch needle to avoid skipping stitches, choose a zigzag stitch or other stretch stitch to allow the seam to move with the fabric, and avoid stretching the fabric as it feeds through the machine. Use a walking foot or adjust presser foot pressure to prevent the fabric from bunching, and consider using wool-like thread for softer, stretchier seams.

A: It is made partially of elastic fibers such as lycra, elastane, spandex (different names of the same synthetic fiber). There are also knit fabrics which stretch due to the production method – looping. Stretch fabric simplifies sewing, as it is a figure-flattering material.

A: Yes, you can sew stretchy fabric on a regular sewing machine by using a ballpoint needle, a polyester thread, and a stretch or zigzag stitch to prevent popping seams. You can also reduce presser foot pressure and avoid stretching the fabric while feeding it through the machine to ensure success.

A: The zigzag stitch is one of the simplest and most effective ways to sew stretchy seams. To set it up, I turn my stitch length to about 2.5 or 3 and adjust the zigzag width to a 2. I also tweak my tension settings, dialing them between 3 and 4.

A: Use Ballpoint or Stretch Needles These needles have a rounded tip that prevents snagging and damaging lightweight knit fabrics.

A: Knit fabrics often shrink when washed and can shrink differently to woven fabrics so it's always safer to pre-wash.