Isn't it great to see wonderful and gorgeous fabrics that focus on sustainability and natural fibers? Today, I share my new dress and the use of a serger and cover stitch on this fabulous Rainbow Iridescent Bubbles Bamboo Spandex Knit from Nature's Fabric. Bamboo spandex knit fabric is known for its softness, breathability, and eco-friendly qualities. Nature's Fabrics, a company I partner with, offers a wide selection of bamboo/spandex jersey that is not only comfortable, but also comes in vibrant colors and prints that withstand repeated washing.
This knit fabric can be sewn on a sewing machine using a zig-zag stich and a twin needle. I however, prefer to use my Baby Lock Altair sewing machine and Accolade serger/cover stitch machine. (follow my affiliate link to learn all about my machines).These machines are my best friends when it comes to working with stretchy materials like bamboo spandex knit. The serger provides professional finishes and durable seams that move with the fabric. My Accolade cover stitch machine creates a twin or triple stitch line on the top with a serger-like loop underneath. It's ideal for hemming and topstitching, giving my garments a polished look.
I am on a mission to sew through my incredible vintage pattern stash.
I love the vintage styles of the 1970's and I chose to sew Simplicity 5461 for this project. I love the sweetheart neckline, the front tie and darling flutter sleeves.
If you have rocked with me for some time, you know I do not like the cutting phase of making. I love that these older patterns have few pattern pieces, have a single size and are sometimes already cut. That was the case with this pattern. This dress is best suited for fabrics with wide widths like this 60" knit. The smooth texture and weight of the 4 yards of fabric was managed with my pattern weights to prevent it from slipping off my cutting table.
After cutting out my fabric I prepare my machines for knit construction with these tried and try tips:
1. Test the settings on my Altair sewing machine: I always test on a scrap piece of fabric to adjust tension and stitch length for straight and zig-zag stitches.
2. Change my machine needles: Ballpoint or stretch needles are a must to avoid skipped stitches.
3. Adjust the differential feed, tension and stitch length on my Accolade serger to handle the stretch without puckering or gathering.
After I prep my machines, I begin construction.
This dress came together quickly with minimal adjustments. The right tools make all the difference.
The only change I made was to omit the back zipper. The fabric stretches 75% on the length and width. With the sweetheart neckline, having it go over my head was not going to be an issue.
