Sewing help

[Legend of Link]

Just wondering if anyone has tips for sewing with spandex

[thunderbolt]

I just do a basic stitch when I hand sew, haven't tried it on a machine yet.

[Legend of Link]

I just do a basic stitch when I hand sew, haven't tried it on a machine yet.

My machine tore it up...then again I am just a novice

[JediJaida]

Use a ballpoint needle, and make sure that there is a strip of paper underneath the seam before you sew. That way, it won't get caught in the throatplate, which is what probably happened to you.

Or, if you want to spend a lot of money, use water soluble stabilizer underneath the seam.

Also, don't be cheap when it comes to the needles. They'll break.

[Legend of Link]

Use a ballpoint needle, and make sure that there is a strip of paper underneath the seam before you sew. That way, it won't get caught in the throatplate, which is what probably happened to you.

Or, if you want to spend a lot of money, use water soluble stabilizer underneath the seam.

Also, don't be cheap when it comes to the needles. They'll break.

Thanks for the advice

[Bizarro Amy]

Someone told me that in addition to using a ballpoint needle, that it sometimes helps to use the setting that puts the needle on the left hand side, rather than the center. I don't know if that's true or not. I prefer hand-sewing spandex when possible.

[HumanWolfman]

Sean it could be the machine you are using. If you dont have enough of those tiny feet that drag the fabric under your needle, the spandex will not move. Since spandex stretches it needs extra gripping to drag it under the needle.

[JediJaida]

I think that only works if the needle has more than one stationary position.

If it only has one: dead center, you'd have to put the item being sewn on the right side of the needle, so that the seam is facing left. Then sew as usual.

Also, don't sew in a hurry, even with stabilizer. When sewing small items, speed is not your friend.

Don't use the backstitch, it adds too much bulk. Just start sewing and then draw the top thread to the backside, and tie it off.

Or, use FrayCheck to seal the seam.

Or, if you decide to use a zigzag stitch, try for the smallest one possible.

I don't think you could do a seam this small on a serger.

[Legend of Link]

Thanks everyone for the advice so far, right now I have moved onto hand sewing and it's turning out well for someone of my "caliber"

In the near future ill try the machine again once I get more comfortable.

[GaryPlaysWithDolls]

I've only ever sewed spandex by hand. I HATE it. I think that's why I make so many plushies. i wish I could do customs with felt!

[Random Axe]

Here's a trick that I've been using for a while that may or may not work for anyone else but it's been a blessing for me. I sew everything right on to the paper. I cut out whatever pattern I'm using, fold the spandex over and pin the paper down tight. Then I sew along the pattern line either by hand or machine. Once I backstitch and tighten it up I peel the paper off and turn it. This gives it body and reduces all of the floppiness. I think someone else mentioned it, but use a blunt needle. Sharp ones tend to get caught on the spandex and snap the thread.

Even using the above I still mess up 2 out of 3 times when I sew. I waste so much spandex, but to get a suit or cape right I've got to go through maybe a third of a yard to do it. I'm still a very basic sewing guy making gingerbread suits. I've got a ways to go improving my style, making patterns and just using the machine with a steadier hand and a gentler foot pedal.

[lilbrosj66]

I definitely reccomend hand basting it together first. That always seemed to make the process easier or at least less frustrating for me. Good luck!

[megalomaniac001]

I like to machine sew where possible. I move my needle over to the right (I'm a lefty) and it works for me. Lot's of practice helps! I hand sew around the collars and other edge seams when needed. Like a lot of posts said, go slow! Another tip I learned recently, do a quick hand stich on the lines (like collars, sleeves legs etc.) to match up the fabric before sewing the seam with the machine. This way everything stays lined up and looks nicer on the final product.

[thunderbolt]

Wow, I must be lucky. always used a sharp needle and never had a problem snagging

[aden2008]

I've been trying to sew suits for my figures and just gave up on it all.. I haven't became a good seamstress yet and can't master sewing something so tiny.. It's very hard to use the machine.