If you’re a fan of t-shirts, welcome! I am too. What would we do without a good basic tee? In the winter I wear one almost every day either as a base layer under a sweater or as an essential part of my outfit. They’re an essential part of my wardrobe the rest of the year, too, and they probably are for you as well. Knits have become such an essential element of our wardrobes today, I can’t really imagine life before they became so popular–what did our ancestors do without them, wearing all those close-fitting woven clothing all the time?
Not only are knits easy and comfortable to wear, they’re incredibly quick and easy to sew. If you’ve been intimidated to try, I hope you’ll reconsider. You can use a regular sewing machine, no problem. Of course having a serger, or overlocker, is nice because it stitches and finishes the seam allowances in one go, but I’ve found that I actually prefer a regular sewing machine for many of the details, so a serger really isn’t necessary, especially if you’re just getting started and not sure if you want to get one yet.
It’s getting much easier to find good knit fabrics online, too! Many of the shops in our Fabric Source list carry really wonderful knit fabrics of all types, so take a look and I’m confident you’ll find some that you like. I just finished sewing a few items from bamboo jersey for our upcoming spring pattern photo shoot, and I’m in love. It’s more drapey and dressy looking than cotton jersey, and now I’m planning to replace a number of my aging cotton tees with bamboo tees. Give it a try if you get a chance!
In any case, here are some of my favorite of our sewing patterns for knit fabrics. Give them a shot–they’re written to guide you through the process and make it easy.
Everyone needs a few basic tees in their closet, and this is my favorite. It’s not too loose or too fitted–just slightly relaxed and with both long- and short-sleeve options. This has been my go-to for years now–ever since we released it!
Like a basic tee but more special. A cowl neck is fancy and timeless, and it’s so easy to make!
My favorite cardigan, hands down. It’s timeless, looks professional because of the clean finish at the edges, and you can sew it from a anything from a lightweight jersey to a heavy sweater knit. And you can wear it as a layer or alone, like I did in the photo. I also really like View B on this one–a sleeveless vest that looks great as a layering piece.
This is our oversized, boxy tee, which is why I named it the Bento Tee. I love the cuffed sleeves (it has longer sleeves, too), and the front pockets are a great detail if you’re looking for optional elements that can switch it up a bit.
What’s more fun than a color-blocked tee or sweatshirt? The seams make this style special and unique, and you can use as many or as few colors as you wish. It works great with lightweight knits or heavier qualities.
Knit dresses are both comfortable and easy to wear while also being extremely chic. The ties cinch the waist and give you such a nice shape with so little effort. Instant elegance!
Hoodie or pullover, this is a layering piece that will take you places. I like this one in lightweight knits like French terry, but a heavier sweatshirt fleece would be so cozy.
This style has been so popular for such a long time now! Like the Easton Cowl-Neck Tee, it’s dressy and different from a basic Tee. The pleats at the shoulder and the open, bound neckline make it both unique and special.
What better to pair with a knit tee than a knit skirt? The faux-wrap detail is a nice optional embellishment that makes this piece feel special.
So there you have it, my favorite of our knit patterns. But I’ll be honest, it wasn’t easy to pick because we have more! Here they are if you’re interested:
Knit Marais Dress: I love the seaming on this one, and it’s a classic silhouette. This I’d like to try in bamboo jersey also.
Tribeca Knit Cami: the built-in bra makes this a great summer style.
Strasbourg Henley: I love the neckline on this one. The bodysuit option is great for a base layer, too!
Give them a try and let me know which is your favorite! We have another pattern for knits coming out in just a few months, and I have a feeling you’re really going to like it.