Tip: Keeping the edges of knit fabric from curling

One of the challenges of sewing on knit fabrics is that the edges tend to curl.  This is particularly true with jersey fabric.  One little tug and the fabric curls in, making it difficult to gauge a correct seam allowance. 

Debbie from Squiggly Twigs Designs shares a tip for keeping the edges of knit fabrics from curling up while you sew them.  I won’t spoil the surpise here; go to Squiggly Twigs Designs to see what to do.

As a sewer, I know firsthand how frustrating it can be when the edges of your knit fabric start curling while you’re trying to sew. But don’t worry, there are a few tips and tricks that I’ve found helpful in keeping the edges of my knit fabric from curling while I sew.

1. Stabilize your fabric: One of the easiest ways to keep your knit fabric from curling is to stabilize it with a fusible interfacing or a lightweight knit fusible. Simply fuse the interfacing to the wrong side of your fabric before you start sewing.
2. Use a walking foot: Another helpful tool is a walking foot for your sewing machine. This type of foot has feed dogs that move the fabric along, helping to keep it from stretching and curling.
3. Pin, pin, pin: Pins can be your best friend when it comes to keeping knit fabric from curling. Place pins along the edge of the fabric to hold it in place as you sew. This will help prevent the fabric from stretching and curling as you work.
4. Sew with a stretch stitch: Make sure to use a stretch stitch when sewing knit fabric, as this will allow the fabric to move and stretch without distorting the seam.