Sewing with Stretch

In this full day workshop you will learn how to sew with stretch fabrics and make your own jersey top. This straight cut tee has just the right amount of relaxed ease and embodies the essence of French maritime style. It features a boat neckline with inside binding, and the set-in sleeves can be cut long or 3/4 length for that classic sailor sweater look.

Over the course of the day Lauren will teach the techniques and tools needed to work with materials such as jersey and knit fabrics. You will cover topics such as needle and stitch selection; learning about ballpoint and stretch needles and how they differ from standard needles and fabric types; covering the characteristics of stretch fabrics, including jersey, spandex, and ponte.

You will also explore different stitch types on your sewing machine, like zigzag and triple straight stitch, and how to adjust them for optimal stretch and seam strength finishing techniques using clear elastic and fusible webbing.

You will learn:

  • The characteristics of knit fabrics and how to work with them
  • How to select the correct needle and stitch setting on your machine
  • How to create a simple neck facing using bias binding
  • How to reinforce seams
  • Hemming stretch material
  • Tips and tricks for working with stretch fabrics
  • Achieving a professional finish

Lauren will provide guidance on common challenges when sewing with stretch fabric and each student will get a handy information sheet to take home. You will leave this workshop with more confidence in your ability to sew with stretch fabrics and create your own garments and go home with a timeless garment made to last for years to come.

IMPORTANT: This workshop is an advanced beginner class meaning you will already be able to thread and use the basic functions on a sewing machine and ideally have previous experience with garment sewing. If you are a complete beginner we recommend joining the Beginner Machine Sewing workshop first. Sewing machine hire and sewing kit included, although you are welcome to bring your own if you prefer. A printed pattern, binding fabric and interfacing are included in this workshop. You will need to bring 1.5 metres of light to medium weight t-shirt jersey plus a matching thread. 

Upcoming workshop dates and venues (CLICK ON DATES FOR MORE INFO AND BOOKING):