Perfectly Sew Denim Every Time - Unleash Your Inner Denim Master!
Hi, Darlings. I have been holding on to this cream denim twill for a while. It is such a great weight and the ideal fabric to sew denim perfectly every time. It presses like a dream and has a great drape. I ordered the fabric from Blackbird Fabrics; they also have this lived-in cotton twill in several colors.
THE PATTERN
This pattern is one of our exclusive Sew It Academy patterns; our jeans pattern is perfect and can be made from several mid-weight to heavy-weight fabrics. We also have a stand-alone course on learning how to perfectly sew denim jeans with tons of tips and tricks. The step-by-step video lessons are accompanied by a printable handout and the PDF pattern in print at home, copy shop, and projector files. You can sign up for that course HERE
TIPS FOR PERFECTLY SEWING DENIM
Denim is a beloved fabric for sewists everywhere. Whether crafting jeans, jackets, or stylish bags, denim projects can be incredibly satisfying. Yet, sewing denim also presents its own set of challenges. But don't worry, fabric enthusiasts! In this guide, we're revealing five must-know hacks to enhance your denim sewing skills. Grab your sewing machine, and let’s dive into the vibrant world of denim mastery!
1. Choose the Right Needle
Choosing the correct needle is vital when working with denim. Standard sewing needles may struggle with the thickness and resilience of this fabric. Instead, reach for a denim needle designed to cut through multiple layers precisely.
For medium—to heavy-weight denim, a needle sized 90/14 or 100/16 is your best bet. These needles reduce the risk of skipped stitches, providing a smooth sewing journey.
Keeping your needle sharp is equally important. A worn needle can lead to snags and uneven stitches. Aim to replace your needle every few garments or sooner if you notice any issues—you'll appreciate the difference it makes!
2. Invest in Quality Thread
Quality thread is essential to your denim projects' final look and durability. Opt for high-quality polyester or cotton-wrapped polyester thread. These threads are strong and resistant to fraying, making them ideal for bulky seam areas.
Consider selecting a top-stitching thread in a contrasting color to make your seams pop. This adds style and reinforces the seams, enhancing their durability. For instance, a bright orange or white thread can make a bold statement if you're using dark denim.
Buying thread in bulk can also save you time and money. Denim projects often require significant thread; running out mid-seam can interrupt your creative flow. Stocking up can make your denim journey smoother!
3. Prewash Your Denim
There’s nothing worse than finishing a beautiful denim creation only to find it shrunk or warped after the first wash. To avoid this, always prewash your denim before you start sewing.
To maintain the fabric's integrity, use cold water on a gentle cycle. To prevent fading, dry on a low heat setting or hang the fabric to dry.
Prewashing helps prevent shrinkage and cleans off chemicals or finishes lingering on the fabric. Moreover, it lets you see how the denim behaves, ensuring you're well-prepared for your project!
4. Use Proper Tools
Equipping yourself with the right tools can significantly improve your sewing experience. Consider incorporating a walking foot into your toolkit. This helpful attachment reduces fabric slipping, which is especially critical when working with thick seams.
Make sure to have quality fabric scissors and rotary cutters for precise cutting. A clean cut can simplify the sewing process tremendously.
Also, switch to fabric clips instead of regular pins when working with denim. Standard pins can warp thicker materials, but fabric clips hold layers securely without shifting. This small change can yield more accurate sewing results, especially with voluminous denim patches.
5. Experiment with Stitch Settings
Denim requires a tailored approach to stitching. One size does not fit all! Adjusting your stitch settings can yield the best results for every unique project. Consider using a zig-zag stitch or a longer straight stitch on seams for optimum strength and flexibility.
Also, play around with different stitch lengths. A longer stitch length looks good on denim and helps prevent puckering — a common challenge with this sturdy fabric. Test your stitch settings on fabric scraps to see what works best for your project.
Treat sewing denim as a creative process — each project allows you to develop your unique style.
So unleash your inner denim master and create something beautiful! Every stitch is a chance to express yourself, and with these hacks, you’ll handle denim with confidence and flair.
Happy sewing! xoxo
