Sewing with Cotton Lycra

Sewing with Cotton Lycra

Sewing with Cotton Lycra: 5 Top Tips for a Perfect Finish

Cotton Lycra is a favorite fabric among sewists due to its softness, breathability, and incredible stretch. Whether you're creating comfy kids' clothing, stylish activewear, or everyday basics, this fabric offers versatility and durability. However, sewing with Cotton Lycra requires a few key techniques to ensure a smooth process and professional results. At Minkee Minky Fabric Australia, we want to help you get the best out of your fabric, so here are our top five tips for sewing with Cotton Lycra.


1. Choose the Right Needles and Thread

Cotton Lycra has a good amount of stretch, so using the correct needle is crucial to avoid skipped stitches or fabric damage. Opt for a ballpoint or stretch needle (size 75/11 or 90/14) as these are designed to glide between the fabric fibers rather than piercing them. Pair your needles with polyester thread, which has some stretch and won’t break as easily as cotton thread.

2. Use the Right Stitch Type

Stretch fabrics require special stitches to maintain flexibility in seams. If you’re using a regular sewing machine, opt for:

  • A zigzag stitch (a narrow zigzag works best for seams)

  • A lightning bolt stitch (if available, this mimics an overlocker’s stretch stitch)

  • Twin needle stitching for a professional hem finish

For those with an overlocker (serger), use a four-thread overlock stitch for strong and stretch-friendly seams.

3. Don’t Stretch the Fabric While Sewing

Cotton Lycra has excellent recovery, meaning it bounces back after being stretched. However, pulling or stretching the fabric while sewing can cause wavy or stretched-out seams. Let the machine feed the fabric naturally and consider using a walking foot to help guide the fabric evenly and prevent distortion.

4. Stabilize Key Areas

Certain areas like shoulder seams, necklines, and hems can stretch out over time. Reinforce these areas with clear elastic, fusible stay tape, or interfacing to maintain their shape. This simple step ensures your finished garment holds up well through repeated wear and washing.

5. Finish Your Seams for a Professional Look

Cotton Lycra doesn’t fray, but finishing your seams can make a big difference in durability and aesthetics. If you don’t have an overlocker, you can trim and zigzag your seam allowances or use a mock overlock stitch on your regular sewing machine. Hemming with a twin needle adds a polished, store-bought look to your garments.


Shop Quality Cotton Lycra at Minkee Minky Fabric Australia!

At Minkee Minky Fabric Australia, we offer a wide range of high-quality Cotton Lycra fabrics in stunning prints and colors. Whether you're sewing for kids, adults, or even home projects, our collection has something for every maker. Shop online today and bring your creative sewing ideas to life!

Happy sewing!

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