Knit Fabrics for Sewing Australia

Shop knit fabrics in Australia for comfortable handmade clothing and everyday sewing. This collection includes soft stretch cotton knits, cotton jersey, French terry and bamboo jersey fabrics in a range of printed designs.

Knit fabrics are ideal for T-shirts, dresses, pyjamas, loungewear, sweatshirts, children’s clothing and relaxed everyday garments. Many cotton knit fabrics in this range include spandex (also known as elastane) for comfortable stretch and recovery.

You may also like browsing our full range of fabric for clothes making.

About Knit Fabrics

Knit fabrics are constructed differently from woven fabrics, giving them natural stretch, softness and flexibility. This makes them well suited to comfortable everyday clothing, including T-shirts, dresses, pyjamas, loungewear and children’s garments.

Depending on the fibre content and knit structure, cotton knit fabrics such as cotton jersey and French terry can vary in weight, stretch recovery and drape. Choosing the right knit fabric for sewing helps ensure your finished garment feels comfortable and holds its shape over time.

Cotton jersey fabric is commonly used for T-shirts, dresses, pyjamas and lightweight garments. It has a smooth surface and soft stretch, making it suitable for comfortable everyday wear.

French terry fabric features small loops on the reverse side, giving it slightly more body and warmth than standard jersey. It is often chosen for sweatshirts, loungewear, joggers and relaxed garments.

When sewing with knit fabrics, consider the stretch percentage and recovery. Patterns designed specifically for knits allow the fabric’s stretch to create a comfortable fit without closures.

Using a stretch or ballpoint needle helps prevent skipped stitches, and many sewists prefer an overlocker or stretch stitch for finishing seams.

FAQ

Yes. A stretch or ballpoint needle is recommended, as it slides between the fibres rather than piercing them, helping to prevent skipped stitches.

Knits generally do not fray in the same way as woven fabrics, but seam finishing is still recommended for durability and professional results.

Woven fabrics have little to no stretch and hold structure, while knit fabrics are constructed to stretch and recover, allowing greater flexibility and comfort.

You can browse more options for fabric for clothes making if you are comparing fabrics for garment sewing.

Cotton-based knit fabrics may shrink approximately 3–6% after washing. Pre-washing before cutting is recommended to ensure accurate garment sizing.

Jersey is typically lighter with a smooth back, while French terry has looped backing that adds warmth and structure, making it suitable for more substantial garments.