Don’t shy away from knit fabrics! These stretchy textiles are here to flatter your form and stitch up easily.
This class begins with an overview of how knits are made and a brief discussion regarding the history of knitwear in fashion. Students will receive a complete class overview in the first session to help them prepare for each session as necessary.
Together with instructor, Jessica Giardino, you’ll explore a wide variety of knit fabrics and learn how to identify the right side, wales and courses, perform a stretch test and what types of patterns work best with knits.
Pick up tips on how to cut knit fabrics without causing a snag, then move on to learning how to prep stretchy fabrics for sewing. You’ll discover tips for pressing, washing, drying and applying knit stay tape and knit interfacing. Next up, discover how needle choice and thread choice factor into sewing with knits.
Then it will finally be time to sew some knits. Begin by learning a variety of seam finishes to use on a traditional sewing machine. Then check out a serger and learn how to use one to sew knits quickly and easily. Lastly, learn to sew your first knit project.
Create a knit skirt to wear out for your next night on the town. Watch step-by-step instructions as you draft a pattern based on measurements then stitch up the skirt. This fun and stylish project can be completed in an afternoon.
In addition to the detailed video instruction you’ll receive, the online class provides you with some downloadable resources and helpful information to print and keep, including: a detailed Class Resource to use as your cutting guide when making your very own knit skirt along with a shopping guide to make sure you have everything on hand before starting your project.
Class Sessions
Session 1: Introduction
10:36
Hit the ground running with Jessica Giardino. Follow along with the class overview before diving right into the core material. Learn about how knit fabric is made and then discover how knitwear has been used and enjoyed of the past several centuries.
Session 2: Knits Up Close & Personal
10:24
Take a closer look at knit fabrics in this session. First up, discover how to identify the fabrics right and wrong sides. Then learn how to perform a stretch test on any knit fabric. Lastly, a brief discussion of selecting the right fabric for a pattern and how ease factors into that decision.
Session 3: Galleria of Knits
15:11
Take a stroll through a multitude of fabrics with Jessica Giardino. Learn about the properties of several different types of fabric. Also discover the ideal use of each fabric provided. Revel in the inspiring fabrics that are sure to get you itching to stitch knits.
Session 4: Prepping Knit Fabric
8:05
Preparing your fabric properly always leads to better results. Check out the tips Jessica Giardino provides for washing, drying and pressing knit fabrics in this session. Also learn the many uses of knit interfacing and knit stay tape.
Session 5: Cutting Knit Fabric
7:31
With your fabric prepped and ready, it’s time to get to cutting! First watch demonstrations of several marking tools, then check out suggested pins and pattern weight options for keeping patterns in place. Lastly, learn the best ways to cut knit fabric and the necessary tools for the job.
Session 6: Sewing Knit Fabric
19:53
It’s finally time to dive into sewing knit fabric! This session covers everything you need to know about sewing knit fabric on a sewing machine. Familiarize yourself with the best needle and thread types for stitching knits. Then check out several edge finish options to complete any knit project.
Session 7: Serging Knit Fabric
7:31
Sewing knits and using a serger go hand-in-hand. These exceptionally handy machines are great to have around for knits. Review how sergers form their stitches before discovering several seam finishes to use on the serger.
Session 8: Sew a Skirt
23:46
Using your measurements create a one-of-a-kind skirt to wow your friends and family. Begin by taking your measurements and creating a personalized pattern. Then stitch up the minimal number of seams to complete the skirt. This fun and easy project will leave you wanting to sew knits all the time!
Your Instructor
Jessica Giardino
Hailing from a long line of artists, crafters and make-do-and-menders, Jessica grew up enjoying several different creative outlets. As an adult this has translated into finding any excuse to create daily. Her passion for sewing was handed down from her grandmother and mother. Previously, Jessica worked as a member of the amazing team that creates <em>Sew News</em>, <em>Creative Machine Embroidery</em>, and <em>Sew it All</em> magazines. Her work has appeared in the pages of each publication and she was featured on two episodes of <em>Sew it All TV</em>. When not stitching, Jessica can be found walking her tiny dog, seeking out delicious tacos, and playing all sorts of games in Portland, OR.
Bonus Material
Class Resource PDF
Refer to this guide to take accurate measurements and draft your own knit skirt pattern.
Shopping Guide PDF
See the list of tools and supplies recommended to complete this project.
Meet Your Expert Video
Download this video to hear how Jessica got her start in sewing knits and how she evolved over the years.
Bonus Materials available for download after purchase.
FAQs
How do I know what the Class covers?
Every Class has a free Preview video you can watch, to give you a flavor of the Instructor and the skills or project that will be covered. In addition, the Overview tab includes a thorough written description of the Class. And finally, each Class Session has a brief written summary of the content in that Session, including the length of each Session video. You will get a good feel for the Class content by reviewing these resources.
Do I have to be a Member of National Sewing Circle to purchase a Class?
No you don’t. While Premium Members will receive regular offers for special deals on National Sewing Circle content, Classes are not reserved exclusively for Members. If you buy a Class as a non-member, we’re sure you’d also enjoy having access to our full library of great sewing videos and articles as a Member, so give it a try.
How do I purchase a Class?
First you should decide that the Class is what you want. Review the Class Preview video and the various written descriptions of the Class and each Session before you purchase, so you have a good understanding of the Class content. When you’re ready to purchase and gain access to the Class, simply click the “Add to Cart” button, and proceed through the Checkout process.
How do I access/view my Class?
Once you’ve paid, you can access/view your Class by going to the MY ACCOUNT section of National Sewing Circle. The MY ACCOUNT link is in the upper right-hand area of the website. Within your MY ACCOUNT, a section labeled “My Content” is where the class you purchased will appear, including a link to watch the video of your Class. You’ll also receive an email confirmation after your purchase, which will include a link to view your Class. You can access your Class as many times as you wish, and you’ll never lose access to your Account information. Just be sure to “Log In” for access to MY ACCOUNT.
Do I have to take the Class right away?
No. Any Class you buy will be accessible to you always. You can view your Class whenever you want, and you can view individual Sessions in whatever order you like.
Is there a limit on the times I can view my Class?
No. Your access never expires. You can view any Class you purchase as many times as you want, whenever you want.
Can I view a Class on my tablet device or mobile phone?
No problem. Most newer-model smartphones or other mobile/tablet devices with an internet connection are able to play the Class videos. Simply Log In on National Sewing Circle, and you can view any Class you’ve bought through the MY ACCOUNT section. Or, you can click on the “View Class” link within the email confirmation you’ll receive upon your purchase.
How do I get access to the Bonus Materials for the Class?
Until you purchase a Class, the Bonus material (any extra videos, download materials, etc.) will not be accessible. Once you purchase a Class, and go to view your Class, each individual Bonus element is accessible by simply clicking on each item. You’ll find the Bonus Materials directly below your main Class viewer frame. You can access the bonus materials as many times as you like and/or save them to your device.
How does the Class Q&A Resource benefit work?
Once you purchase any Class, within the Class viewing page, you’ll have access to post a question, comment or tip in the Class Discussions. This is not a “live chat,” but National Sewing Circle contributors will answer posted questions and provide tips regularly. You can also view other Class participants’ questions and input to take part in this virtual dialogue among others who have taken the Class and are willing to share tips, answers, or ideas.
Can I print out Class details?
For any Bonus Material that is a PDF Download, yes you can. Just click on the icon/button for the Bonus element you want, and print with your local printer.
What are PDF downloads?
These are simply documents, plans, or written materials that are formatted in a way to print out and retain for reference. By simply clicking on the icon/link for any PDF Download that is included with a Class, you can print that document on your own printer or simply view the contents on your computer/mobile device.
Are there any system requirements to view the Class video content?
Your Class video content is best when viewed on a computer manufactured in the past couple of years with a good broadband Internet connection (not dialup). We also highly recommend using the latest version of Firefox, Safari, or Chrome as your Internet Browser, though recent versions of Internet Explorer will work as well. The recommended screen resolution is 1024 x 768 or larger.
Why do you need my email?
We need it to acknowledge your purchase of a Class, and send you a confirmation of your transaction. Also, in order to maintain your permanent access to the Class videos, you’ll need to Login to www.nationalsewingcircle.com. We guarantee that we will not share your email with any third parties. You may receive email updates from National Sewing Circle from time to time, with details of new Classes and updates. You can easily unsubscribe when you receive any email.
Can I get a refund if I don’t like the Class?
Because you’ll have full access to all the materials and content that is presented in the Class immediately, we can’t offer a refund after purchase. Please review the Class Preview video and the various written descriptions of the Class and each Session before you purchase, so you have a good understanding of the Class content.
How do I contact National Sewing Circle?
If your question is about the Class content, please use the Contact Us Link – and you'll receive feedback from the Class Instructor. Even your fellow Class participants may jump in to offer tips and advice from their experience. If you have other questions or need help, you can email us at nationalsewingcircle@program-director.net or call us toll-free, at 1-855-208-7187. Service Representatives will be available Monday-Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Central time, excluding normal holidays.
This site uses cookies and other technologies to track your use of the site that will allow us and our service providers and partners to enhance your experience and deliver relevant content to you. By agreeing to or closing this notice, you understand and agree to such use and data collection. For more information about our privacy practices and your choices, please visit our privacy policy and cookie notice.
