From Coco Chanel’s influential use of jersey knit fabric in her suits from the early 1900’s, to the iconic wearing of body-skimming knit sweaters by sex symbols like Lana Turner and Jane Russell in the 1940’s, the use of knit fabric has constantly found its place in the realm of sportswear and high fashion well into the era’s. The new millenium is no exception.
Trouble sewing knits and stretch fabric? Fret no more. Here are a three simple tips for hemming your cotton jersey tees and comfy yoga pants without all the waves!
Dear Netfah,
The other day I bought a cotton/poly knit, kind of like the tee shirt material, that I really love. I am planning to make a dress for a friends birthday and wanted to know if I should prewash it to allow room for shrinkage before I start cutting.
-Suzie, San Francisco CA
Dear Suzie,
I would suggest washing almost any NON dry clean only material before I construct a garment in this case not only for shrinkage allowance, but for the same reason its good to wash new clothes before you wear them; you never know where they have been stored or what unwanted pests and chemicals may have found their way into the fibers.
