Sewing with knits is rather easy.  You will need the right tools though.

1. Choose the right sewing machine needle *(https://amzn.to/3bn1X3y).  I like to use a stretch needle or ballpoint needle.
2. Twin needles *https://amzn.to/31I8lOs) are great for sewing a professional looking hemline.
3. Fabric glue stick *(https://amzn.to/2S61ivJ) is ideal for hemming.  Apply fabric glue to the wrong side of the hem, fold up and iron into place.
4. Tilly and the Buttons *(https://amzn.to/2w2GGvX) published a great book called Stretch.  It’s also loaded with several patterns you will want to make.
5. BONUS TIP not mentioned in the video:  Use a walking foot!  This helps in most cases.  However in my video I mentioned the troubles I was having with sewing the two different types of fabric together.  The walking helped some but still had to hand baste.

I’ll show you how to thread your machine when you’re using a twin needle.  It’s easier than you think!

Do you have issues with your knits rolling?  Serge the edges!  And you can spritz the fabric with a little bit of spray starch.

My number 1 tip with working with knits — HAND BASTE into place!  This will help solve most of the shifting issues you may experience.

 1.  Scissors - I recommend you get 3 pairs. 

• One for cutting fabric
• One for cutting paper and a
• Small pair for cutting small threads. 
• I also like to use a rotary cutter and a mat to cut fabric from my patterns. 

Don't mix the functions of the scissors.  Absolutely do not use fabric for anything other than fabric.   They will dull quickly.  

3.  Fabric Glue - Sometimes you just need a helping hand to help hold things together without pins.  Why not use a little glue?

• Fabric Glue Stick
• Steam a Seam 
• amzn.to/2KN7BQJE6000 - to adhere rhinestones and other embellishments without sewing

4.  Magnetic Seam Guide - Where has this been all my life!  I just purchased one recently and it sure helped guide my fabric and get the stitching straight!  

If you have a fancy computerized machine you may not want to use it.  Check with your sewing machine manufacturer and see if this will work fo you.  It worked great for my Pfaff Passport 3.0.

5.  Pattern Weights - I've discovered pattern weights use use to hold down my pattern while I cut with my rotary cutter.  You don't have to buy the expensive ones at the fabric store.  Be creative!  Even soup cans work!   I use these:

• Large washers found at a hardware store
• Heavy coasters

6.  Rulers - Drawing straight lines are essential in sewing.  I use a variety of rulers depending on my project.  A curved ruler works will for blending sizes too.

• 6" Seam Gauge
• 12" - 24" quilters ruler
• Measuring tape
• Yard Stick

7.  Point Turners - Achieving that perfect point in a collar or any corner sets you apart from a "homemade" look to a professional ready to wear look.  Some people use a pencil or even the point of scissors.  These leave a lot of room for errors.  These two are my favorites.

• Tong Tube Turner
• Point Turner and Seam Creaser

Share your favorite sewing tool that I haven't mentioned.  Do you have any favorites?  Comment below and share your favorite brands and experience.

Happy Sewing!

Penni