Sewing with Rib Knit Fabric: Tips and Tricks for Success

What is Rib Knit Fabric?

Rib knit fabric is a stretchy knitted material that has a distinctive vertical ribbed texture. The ribs run lengthwise along the fabric, giving it natural elasticity and making rib knits perfect for garments that need to move with your body. Rib knits are comfortable, easy to wear, and have good recovery, meaning they retain their original shape even after being stretched out. This versatile fabric can be made from cotton, rayon, polyester, spandex blends, and more. It comes in varying weights and stretch levels to suit different sewing projects.

Benefits of Sewing with Rib Knit

Some key advantages of using rib knit fabric include:

• Flexibility - the natural stretch allows for a full range of motion
• Comfort - the soft, flexible feel makes it perfect for wearable garments
• Shape retention - rib knits bounce back after being stretched out
• Ease of use - rib knits are simple to sew and handle
• Versatility - available in many weights, stretches, and blends
• Affordability - it's an inexpensive knit fabric option

Tips for Sewing with Rib Knit Fabric

Use the Right Needles

Rib knits work best with ballpoint or stretch needles that glide smoothly between the knitted stitches without breaking them. Avoid sharp needles that can pierce and damage the fabric.

Use Polyester or Woolly Nylon Thread

These threads have some give to them allowing stitches to stretch with the rib knit. All-purpose polyester thread is a good standard choice. Woolly nylon in the bobbin can also help stitches stretch without popping.

Pick Stretch Stitches

Your sewing machine likely has built-in stretch stitches like zig-zag, lightning stitch, and overlock stitch. These are ideal for rib knits as they add stretch and flexibility to the seams.

Use a Serger if Possible

An overlock serger allows you to sew, trim, and enclose seams in one step with a stretchy, professional finish. This is the best machine for sewing knits, though a regular machine works too.

Stabilize Shoulder Seams

The shoulder seams on knit garments can stretch out over time. Stabilize them with stay tape or lightweight interfacing strips to maintain the shape.

Staystitch Necklines

Staystitching the neckline edges helps prevent stretching and distortion. Sew a line 1⁄4” from neckline all the way around before constructing the shoulders and sleeves.

Use Washable Fabric Markers

Chalk or pens can rub off on rib knits while handling the fabric. Use markers that are designed to disappear with water so you can easily remove any stray marks after sewing.

Pre-wash Fabrics

Preshrink rib knits by washing and drying as you would the finished garment before cutting out your pattern pieces. This helps prevent shrinkage issues later on.

Press Gently with Low Heat

High heat can distort rib knit fabrics. Press seams and hems carefully using a lower temperature setting and steam.

Add Elastic as Needed

Self-made ribbing can relax over time. Add some elastic thread to hems or casings at the waist, sleeves, or neckline to help them retain shape and stretch.

Reinforce Stress Points

Areas like crotch seams and armpits are prone to popping stitches from body movement. Consider double stitching or using elastic thread in the bobbin to reinforce them.

Try a Coverstitch Machine

A coverstitch creates beautiful, flexible, professional hems on rib knits. If you don't have this specialty machine, use a twin needle for a similar look.

Rib Knit Fabric Sewing Projects

Here are some popular garments and items that work well with rib knit fabrics:

• T-shirts
• Sweatshirts and hoodies
• Activewear like leggings, shorts, and tanks
• Loungewear like pajamas and robes
• Comfy dresses
• Children's and baby clothes
• Scarves, hats, and other accessories
• Bathingsuits
• Undergarments

Have fun playing around with soft, stretchy rib knits for all kinds of comfortable, casual wear! Follow the tips above to sew rib knits successfully and bring your creative projects to life. What will you make with this versatile knit fabric?

FAQs

What needle is best for sewing rib knit fabric?

Use a ballpoint or stretch needle when sewing rib knits. The rounded tip slides easily between the knitted stitches without piercing or damaging the fabric.

Should I use a serger to sew rib knit fabric?

A serger allows you to sew seams while enclosing the raw edges at the same time. This gives a professional finish. You can sew rib knits on a regular sewing machine, but a serger is ideal.

Why do my rib knit seams stretch out?

The natural stretch of the fabric can cause seams to distort over time. Use polyester thread, stretch stitches, stay tape on shoulders, and elastic as needed to help seams maintain their shape.

Can I use a standard straight stitch?

Straight stitches have no give, so they may break when stretched. Use a zig-zag or other stretch stitch instead to allow threads to move with the rib knit fabric.

How do I prevent the neckline from stretching out?

Staystitch the neckline by sewing a line 1⁄4” from the raw edge around the entire perimeter before constructing the shoulders and attaching the neckband.