Ever since Casey unveiled her Lily of the Valley Dress this week, which is breathtaking by the way, I've had nothing but jersey fabrics on my mind. I've never sewn with jersey before nor do I have a clue about basics like how best to finish jersey seams, but this is an itch I just have to scratch.
The obvious place to start of course, is with the pattern Casey used, the Vintage Vogue 8728 reprint:
In the name of saving some cash though, I had a look through my pattern stash and boy I wasn't disappointed! I think all of the below would look good made up in jersey...can anyone more knowledgeable let me know if they foresee any flaws with my thinking?
Of course my research wouldn't be complete without locating the perfect fabric...the trouble is though, which one to choose?!?
Ditto Fabrics has the most delectable jersey selection in a single location that I've ever seen:
And I love this luscious colour from Croft Mill:
Have any of you sewn with jersey before? I'd appreciate any tips you may have!
These are all wonderful. I am working on a knit two piece right now. It's really great fabric to work with. I am going to serge the edges. I like to serge. Your patterns are beautiful. The last pattern I have a tip for you. Casey suggested it a while back. Interface under the buttons/buttonholes on the bodice. They have interfacing made for knits. She pasted this tip on and it made such a difference. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteMy, what a stunning pattern collection you have! I'm so jealous. I've never sewn single knit jersey on a regular sewing machine, only an overlocker. As I understand it you need to use one of the stretch stitches. You can sew double knit jersey on a regular machine with a regular stitch quite easily though - it's more stable than single knit so easier to work with (including cutting out). It's thicker though, obviously, so doesn't have much drape, so wouldn't be the best choice for the skirts on those patterns.
ReplyDeleteI loved Casey's dress, too! I think Simplicity 4905 would be darling in jersey! Good luck!
ReplyDeleteI really love the little birds! It can be difficult to find patterned jersey and your selection is lovely. My advice is be very careful when cutting out as it stretches and moves a lot and I tend to find my pieces don't always match up that well.
ReplyDeleteThank you all so much for the advice, I guess jersey is serious business ;o) I'll defo do some research before getting stuck in! Allie, can't wait to check that article out...thanks so much!
ReplyDeleteHi there! That bird print jersey is AMAZING! I have used Croft Mill jersey and it was really good quality, but be very careful if you pre-wash, as it can go out of shape on the washing line and will never recover! The fewer seams the better, and use an overlock stitch on your machine.
ReplyDeleteI think the only advice I really have is to test out your stitches etc on a scrap of fabric before you start. And make sure you use the right kind of stretch stitch so they don't tear when the fabric stretches.
ReplyDeleteOh and if the fabric stretches out and goes wavy when you stitch it, if you can reduce the pressure of your foot it'll stop that happening - the lever to change the pressure of mine is inside the bit on the very left, where the lightbulb is.
Thanks Roobeedoo and Rachel, your advice is so, so helpful!
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