• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Sewing.org

Sewing, crafting & embroidery tips and sewing news

Banner Ad

How to sew seams in knit fabric

January 14, 2011 by LindaG

What’s the best way to sew seams in knit fabric to keep the seams from popping?

Ideally, the best seam for knits is made with a serger–either a four-thread or three-thread stitch, so that there is inherent stretch in the seam to allow for wearing movement. If you don’t have a serger, use a narrow zigzag stitch along the seamline and trim off the excess seam allowance width to 1/4″. If you must use a straight stitch, stretch the seam slightly as you sew and stitch a second line close to the first before trimming the seam allowances to 1/4″.

Knit seams tend to curl if left with a 5/8″ seam allowance; trimming helps reduce that problem and makes a flatter, less obtrusive seam.

In areas where there can be lots of stress, like a pant crotch seam, a combination of conventional and serging stitching helps to reinforce the area.

For more information, see Guideline 4.215 Sewing With Knits.

Filed Under: Sewing, Quilting & Embroidery Tips & Techniques

Primary Sidebar

Free Projects

  • Baby & Toddler
  • Bridal Sewing
  • Charitable Sewing
  • Dolls, Toys, Games
  • Fashion Sewing
  • Fun Projects
  • Home Decor
  • Jewelry
  • Kids Projects
  • Men’s Sewing
  • Pets
  • Pillow Projects
  • Purses, Bags, Totes
  • Quilt Projects
  • Teen Projects

HOLIDAY PROJECTS

  • Christmas & Winter
  • Halloween
  • Thanksgiving
  • Other Holidays

Fabric at joann.com!

Copyright © 2026 · News Pro on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in