Knit Fabrics – French Terry, Jersey & Stretch Cotton

Soft and stretchy knit fabrics perfect for sewing comfortable me made clothing. Explore French terry, cotton jersey, and other quality knit bases in a variety of prints. Ideal for sewing T-shirts, dresses, pyjamas, loungewear, and everyday garments.

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

About Knit Fabrics

Knit fabrics are constructed differently from woven fabrics, giving them natural stretch and flexibility. This makes them particularly suited to comfortable, close-fitting garments and everyday clothing.

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

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

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

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.