When I started sewing on a more regular basis, I mostly sewed with knits. I didn’t know they were supposed to be difficult to sew because I wasn’t reading blogs yet. Though knits have never really scared me it’s really helpful to find the best techniques for sewing with different kind of knits. Today I want to share some tips I’ve tested and found very helpful – one for a neckline binding method for jerseys, and one for finishing bulky knits on a serger.
This year on my birthday I was surprised with a book I didn’t even know was coming out – Pattern Magic 3. I have the other three books, 1,2 and Stretch Fabrics, and as you know I’m fascinated by them. A few years back I attempted to make something from the books each month, but I didn’t get further than May. I still long to go back to this project, the pattern manipulation is just mind boggling and really gives you a totally different perspective on what you can do with a flat piece of paper/fabric. For now, I’ll stick to discussing this new addition to the series. Enjoy!
I’m delighted to have this guest post for you today by Charlotte. I first met Charlotte at the big Paris meetup in November 2014 and we’ve kept in touch since then. I can honestly say she’s one of the nicest people I’ve ever met! She blogs at English Girl at Home, has her first PDF pattern out, and is interested in all things crafty besides sewing. Her blog is also a great resource if you’re interested in dyeing with natural dyes. For now, she’s here to show off her Opal Cardigan made in a woven fabric and tell you how she made that work!
To wear, sweater knits are my favourite for sweaters and cardigans. You get the look of a hand knit sweater, but you don’t actually have to knit it. And they come in so many varieties, fine or bulky, all acrylic, cotton or wool content, some even knit in a beautiful lace pattern or cables. They differ from jersey because they are usually knit more loosely and with thicker yarn. The variety of styles you can make is demonstrated in the Opal Cardigan sample garments, they are all knits but differ greatly in style. You can read more on picking the right fabric for your look here. Now, let’s focus on how to sew with sweater knits.
Fabric choice is key for every pattern, but even more so for the Opal Cardigan. You can make your choice based on what kind of style you are looking for, or whether you’re a sweater knit rookie or an expert. I’ve used three very different fabrics for my samples to show what the fabric choice can do with the fit and the style of the cardigan. The recommended fabric section in the instructions lists sweater knit, but if you find a nice ponte or French terry you can use that too. I’ve used a lightweight knit for View A, a medium weight and coarse knit fro View B, and a heavy textured 70% wool knit for View C. They are all made in size B, graded out at the hips to C. To help you find the right fabric, Gorgeous Fabrics has provided you with a 20% discount, so read on!
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