TOP 10 SEWING PATTERNS FOR JERSEY AND KNIT FABRICS
Sewing with knit fabrics can be a bit daunting when you’re used to woven fabrics such as cotton. If you’ve made a few woven garments already then learning to sew with knits won’t be as tricky as you think. In fact once you are used to working with the stretchy material, fitting is often a lot easier. Plus let’s not forget the comfort factor of cosy knits! We’ve done a round up of our favourite sewing patterns that use knit fabrics, with Autumn just around the corner.. what are you waiting for?
Top tips for sewing with knit fabrics
- Use a ball point needle – it stops the needle cutting and potentially laddering the fabric. The curved end of the needle allows it to push through the weave of the knit fabric without tearing it. You can find these at lots of online shops or local haberdashery stores.
- Don’t stretch the fabric when sewing it – this sounds like an obvious tip but even the slightest pull will stretch it out of shape, pay special attention around the neckline. Some machines come with an extension table and this can really help. Holding the fabric so it doesn’t drape off your machine will help too.
- Always stabilise the shoulder seams to prevent you garment stretching out of shape.
- When using a heavier weight jersey like a Ponte Roma try using a reinforced straight stitch as it’s much stronger.
- Hemming – the big difference with knit fabric is that it should always be finished with a single turned hem as a double turn will be too bulky.
Types of knit fabrics
As part of our Pattern Tutorials series, we have included descriptions of different types of knit fabrics along with tips on how to choose the right fabric when out shopping. Swat up on your knit fabric knowledge on the blog here.
Show me the patterns
// The stash buster //
Nixie Briefs – Jennifer Lauren Handmade
Our top pick to use up scraps of fabric in your stash are the Nixie Briefs from Jennifer Lauren Handmade.
The Nixie Briefs are a step above your standard underwear fare – with a higher rise at the back and full bum coverage, they’re your new everyday knickers with a fun twist. Choose from a hipster or high-waisted brief, then get adventurous with those knit fabric scraps, mixing and matching to your heart’s content. They also make lovely gifts or are the ideal pattern for a sewing party.
Sizing: approx. UK 6-24 // Available in the shop? Yes, as a digital PDF pattern.
Want to see it on some real people? Check it out on Instagram here.
// Cosy sweaters //
Toaster sweaters – Sew House Seven
This is probably the most made sweater ever in the sewing community!
These two different high neck sweaters will keep you toasty warm and stylish in the cooler months. They are both very simple to sew and perfect for sewists of all levels who want to try their hand at sewing knits. Sew it in a boiled wool knit, wool jersey or ponte for a more dressed up look or sweatshirt fleece (with stretch)/ jersey knit for a more casual look.
Sizing: XS – XXL (approx. UK 6 – 22) // Available in the shop? Yes, as a paper and digital PDF pattern.
Want to see it on some real people? We have lots of reviews here or check it out on Instagram here.
Lion/Zebre Sweatshirt – I AM Patterns
It looks like statement sleeves are here to stay, so why no make your sweater on trend too.
This classic shaped sweater has a modern twist with puff sleeves, that give volume at the shoulders. It also has three snap fasteners on the left shoulder to make it easy to get in and out of.
Sizing: EU 36 – 46 (approx. UK 6 – 14) // Available in the shop? Yes, as a paper and digital PDF pattern.
Jarrah Sweater – Megan Nielsen
A popular recent release from Megan Nielsen, this sweater has a fun tie front detail.
This loose fit drop shoulder sweater features a crew or funnel neckline, two sleeve options and four hem styles. View A is a sweater with cuffs and a hem band. View B is a sweater with curved hemline and split sleeve hem. View C is a sweater with waist tie and cuffs. View D is a cropped sweater with funnel neck and split sleeve hem.
Sizing: approx. 0-20 (approx. UK 6 – 20). // Available in the shop? Yes, as a paper pattern.
Jocko Pullover – Ready to Sew
This has been one of the most popular sweater tops on The Fold Line and with an easy fit design, it’s ideal for beginners.
It’s a boxy fit sweater with detailed side vents and a relaxed fit 7/8 sleeve. Perfect for chilly days, the slouchy silhouette can be effortlessly dressed up or down making it an essential for every wardrobe. View 1 features shoulder-buttons and View 2 features a turtleneck.
Sizing: approx. EU 32 – 52 (approx. UK 6 – 22). // Available in the shop? Yes, as a digital PDF pattern.
Want to see it on some real people? We have reviews here or check it out on Instagram here.
// Wardrobe staple tops //
Romy top and dress – Tilly and the Buttons
The latest release from Tilly and the Buttons has been really popular this summer with it’s cute back bow detail.
Upgrade your casual me-made wardrobe with this stylish (and comfy!) top and dress. The optional back ties or contrast binding add a fun twist to the classic Breton or t shirt dress. Romy has a modern loose fit and high slash envelope neckline, with choice of cap, three quarter or full length sleeves for year-round style.
Sizing: XS – XXL (approx. UK 6 – 22) // Available in the shop? Yes, as a paper pattern.
Want to see it on some real people? We have lots of reviews here or check it out on Instagram here.
Nikko Dress and Top – True Bias
One of Kate’s favourite makes, the Nikko top or dress has lots of options.
Perfect for a confident beginner who wants to sew with stretch fabrics. View A and B are simple turtleneck tops with a fitted silhouette great for tucking into something high waisted. Views C and D are a little straighter through the waist and hip, extending to the ankle, with knee-length side slits to complete the dress. Views A and C are both sleeveless, cut to resemble a racerback, but with enough coverage to wear a regular bra. Views B and D have long fitted sleeves that reach the wrist.
Sizing: US 0 – 18 (approx. UK 8 – 20) // Available in the shop? Yes, as a paper and digital PDF pattern.
Want to see it on some real people? We have lots of reviews here or check it out on Instagram here.
Elliot tee and tee – Helen’s Closet
Another great wardrobe staple here, we really like that this pattern will take you through from Summer to Winter and there are lots of options to make it your own. Different weights of jersey will really transform this pattern.
Your go to classic shape and perfect for layering. View A has a stylish high-low hem with a side slit that provides comfort around the hips. View B is slightly cropped, perfect for pairing with high-waisted pants and skirts. View C of Elliot makes a great, everyday t-shirt. All views feature a raglan sleeve and three neck options are provided: an extra tall version that can be scrunched down or folded over, a medium height version, and a classic knit band.
Sizing: XS – XXL (approx. UK 6 – 22) // Available in the shop? Yes, as a digital PDF pattern.
Want to see it on some real people? We have lots of reviews here or check it out on Instagram here.
// Statement Dresses //
Matilda Wrap dress and Top – Untitled Thoughts
Perfect for a night out, jazz up the Matilda Wrap Dress or Top by Untitled Thoughts with a velvet knit fabric for all the party vibes.
It is a simple, true wrap! It has no complex closures and is made to comfortably wrap around the body and tie in the back. This pattern was created to be your ultimate, go-to knit wrap dress! This pattern has a few fun variations that you can mix & match: Wrap Peplum top, Wrap Dress, Wrap Dress with Ruffle Hem, Modest V-Neck Front Snap Option and Bra Friendly Back.
Sizing: approx. XS – XXL (approx. UK 6 – 24) // Available in the shop? Yes, as a digital PDF pattern.
Want to see it on some real people? We have pattern reviews on our site or check it out on Instagram here.
Kielo Wrap Dress – Named
A classic but a goodie, the Kielo Wrap by Named is an all time favourite in the sewing community.
This simple to sew dress has a fantastic silhouette, clinching you in at the waist. It’s sleeveless with a round neckline and wrap closure at the waist. The skirt is close fitting with a vent at the back to make walking easier! This pattern has been made by so many people and it’s become a house classic in the sewing community. Choose a lightweight jersey for something loose and floaty or for a more dramatic look a heavier weight knit fabric. Download the free Kielo wrap dress long sleeve pattern piece from Named here so you are Autumn ready.
Sizing: approx. UK 4 – 18 / EUR 32 – 46 / US 0 – 14 // Available in the shop? Yes, as a paper and digital PDF pattern.
Want to see it on some real people? We have lots of pattern reviews on our site or check it out on Instagram here.
// Easy fit dresses //
Pembroke Dress and Tunic – Cashmerette
A great workwear option, the Pembroke Dress and Tunic from Cashmerette will take you from day to night.
This iconic T-shirt dress, in midi or tunic length, is designed for curves with an optional waist tie and modern split hem detail. The optional waist tie clinches you in at the waist and could be made from a contrasting Choose from three neckline options (scoop, jewel, or turtleneck) and either cuffed or hemmed sleeves. Whether made up in a lightweight ponte or flirty floral jersey, there’s nothing basic about this wardrobe essential!
Sizing: approx. UK size 14 – 30, with cup sizes from C – H. // Available in the shop? Yes, as a paper pattern.
Want to see it on some real people? We have pattern reviews on our site or check it out on Instagram here.
Stasia dress and tee – Sew Liberated
A comfy everyday wearable dress, this is a wardrobe staple that should be in every handmade wardrobe.
The Stasia is a knit dress that feels like wearing secret pyjamas. It also comes with optional pockets, multiple sleeve and skirt length options. The top option is a close-fitting tee perfect for layering. Mix and match these options to create your go-to dress.
Sizing: approx. US 0 – 24 (approx. UK 6 – 22). // Available in the shop? Yes, as a paper and digital PDF pattern.
Want to see it on some real people? Check it out on Instagram here.
// Best jumpsuit //
Sirocco Jumpsuit – Deer and Doe
This jumpsuit was so popular this year that we struggled to keep it in stock, it’s elegance and comfort all rolled into one.
A mock-wrap knit jumpsuit with short set-in sleeves and pleated pants. Version A has tapered legs, version B is a romper. Wear to work or on a night out, this pattern ticks so many boxes it would be rude not to have it in your handmade wardrobe!
Sizing: EU 34 – 46 (approx. UK 6 – 14/16) // Available in the shop? Yes, as a paper pattern.
Want to see it on some real people? We have lots of reviews here or check it out on Instagram here.
// All-in-one knit dream //
Adrienne Blouse and Joan Trousers – Friday Pattern Company
These two patterns complement each other so well and make the perfect comfy knit outfit!
The Adrienne Blouse is a fashion forward wardrobe essential. It is a knit top with billowy statement sleeves that are gathered up at the shoulders and hems with elastic. The length is slightly cropped with the hem hitting just below your bellybutton. The Joan Trousers are easy to make and look amazing! Sew them up in an evening and wear them to work the next day. The Joan Trousers are “treggings” (trousers leggings). They feature wide legs, a 2” waistband with belt loops and a button, scoop pockets, and an optional sash belt. These editorial looking pants are the ultimate secret pajamas!
Sizing: XS – XXL, approx. UK size 6-20 // Available in the shop? Yes, as paper and digital PDF patterns – Adrienne / Joan.
Want to see it on some real people? We have reviews here Adrienne / Joan or check it out on Instagram Adrienne / Joan.
// Cover ups //
Fall in Love Cardigan – Sew to Grow
Perfect for hot cuppas on brisk mornings, the Fall In Love Cardigan features a tie at the waist for a cinched in look. Alternatively, you could knot the tie in the back to showcase your outfit underneath.
Sizing: XS – 4XL (approx. UK 8 – 26) // Available in the shop? Yes, as a paper and digital PDF pattern.
Want to see it on some real people? Check it out on Instagram here.
Fjord Cardi – Papercut Patterns
Part of Papercut’s most recent pattern collection, this is a great cropped cover up for cooler days.
Cosy at it’s finest! This super comfy cardigan features angled side pockets, a wide neckband and two length options. Inspired by a Fjord, a long narrow deep inlet. Worn with the Sierra Jumpsuit / Ravine dress.
Sizing: XXS – XL, approx. UK size 6-18 // Available in the shop? Yes, as a paper pattern.
Want to see it on some real people? Check it out on Instagram here.
