I have recently been given the exciting opportunity to test out a Janome 6234XL Overlocker. It has been perfectly timed with the arrival of some new organic jersey from the Craft Cotton Company. The first one I have had a play with is the white and black clouds, perfect for my new arrival due very soon. I have started with a very easy baby hat project that anyone can do. Although I have used my overlocker, you can use a regular sewing machine for this project, and I will explain how. This is the first of many new arrival projects I have under my belt.
First a bit about the jersey. I appreciate it is hard one to buy online because you want to get a feel for it. Seeing how it stretches and sews up is really important when buying jersey which is another reason I lover to write up these tutorials.
This particular jersey is a mix of 96% cotton and 4% spandex, it is knitted together, not like the woven cotton, it is this combination that gives it the stretch. I make it out to be around 30% stretch. Although it seems a bit scary at first, it is very satisfying once you get your head around working with it and you will soon be as hooked as I am.
YOU WILL NEED
Pattern Weights
Pins or Clips
Rotary Cutter or Scissors
Pattern
Overlocker (or sewing machine)
METHOD
1. First print your pattern and cut your fabric. You should be able to copy the pattern image onto a word document and print it off. There is a 1" guide mark to ensure you get the right size. You will only need a small amount so this project is a great way to use up fabrics from another bigger project.
Fold the fabric in half ensuring it is straight, place the pattern template on the fold of the fabric. Hold in place with pattern weights. I use simple stones I have collected, some I have just decoupaged so they look pretty. You will need two of these.
You will also need two strips measuring 2" x 8".
2. Fold the strips in half along the long edge and pin or clip them to the wrong side of the fabric.
3. I have used a 1/4" seam allowance and sewn them using my overlocker.
If you are using a sewing machine you can use a narrow zig zag stitch or your machine may have a stitch that looks like lightning, these stitches allow the fabric to stretch without the thread breaking. Jersey doesn't tend to fray so you don't need to finish the edges, but you can use an over edge or zig zag stitch to finish your edges if you prefer
4. Fold the rim of the hat to the front and place the two pieces right sides together. Pink or clip and sew all the way around. If you have over locked your seams, thread the loose ends. Turn the right way.
The pointy bit at the top is not a telly tubby style fashion statement. Simply knot it and you are done.
I would love to hear if you give it a go. For more free tutorials, new fabric arrivals and special offers, make sure you have subscribed to the mailing list.