Replies

1. 
   karen_morris_ | Feb 14, 2002 05:08am | #1

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   Deborah, I'm not sure that I understand your question. Are you referring to a pattern designed for knit fabric, that you want to sew using a woven fabric? Or do you want to change a hand- or machine-knitting pattern into a sewing pattern for woven fabric?

   If your question is the former, I can explain the difference. In a sewing pattern designed for knit fabric, the pattern envelope will explain what type of knit to use, and how much stretch it needs to have. The design takes the stretch of the knit into account when planning fit and ease. To make the pattern from a woven fabric, you'll need to add more ease by cutting the pattern larger. So adapting a pattern for a woven fabric will be easier with a pattern designed for fabrics with a smaller amount of stretch, like 25%. Patterns designed for fabrics with 50 to 75% stretch (like swimsuits, for example) are often cut even smaller than the body, for a snug, sculpted fit. This type of pattern is more difficult to adapt for a woven fabric; I wouldn't recommend it unless you're experienced with making these types of changes.

   You may want to make up the pattern in muslin or scrap woven fabric first, to test the fit, before you dive into your fashion fabric.