Jersey Fabric by the Metre

A jersey needle, sometimes called a stretch needle. Its rounded tip pushes the loops aside instead of cutting the yarn. With an ordinary universal needle you can easily get small holes or skipped stitches.

Yes. A narrow zigzag or the stretch stitch on your machine is perfectly sufficient, as both give way when stretched. The edges do curl slightly but they do not fray, so finishing the edges is not essential with jersey.

Cotton jersey is firmer, holds its shape and is easy to care for, ideal for shirts and children's clothes. Viscose jersey drapes more softly, has a slight sheen and clings gently – the better choice for dresses, tunics and blouses.

Usually the fabric is stretched by the presser foot while sewing. Reduce the presser foot pressure, guide the fabric without pulling, and stabilise shoulders and necklines with a stay tape that keeps the seam in shape.

Not necessarily. Jersey is not a fibre but a type of knit. It can be made of cotton, viscose, polyester or blends. Cotton jersey is the most common; the exact composition is listed with each fabric.

For an adult shirt, 1 to 1.5 m at a width of 145 to 150 cm is usually enough, depending on size and pattern; for a children's shirt often 50 to 70 cm. Your sewing pattern has the binding figure.

Yes. Wash the fabric before cutting the way you will later wash the finished garment. Cotton jersey can shrink a little – if that happens after sewing, the shirt will be too tight.