Viscose jersey is a type of knit fabric that is commonly used in clothing manufacturing. But what exactly is viscose jersey and why is it so popular? Let's dive into the details.
What is Viscose Jersey?
Viscose jersey is a semi-synthetic fabric made from wood pulp.
How is Viscose Jersey Made?
The process of making viscose jersey involves dissolving wood pulp in chemicals to create a viscous solution. This solution is then extruded through spinnerets to create fibers, which are then spun into yarn and knitted into fabric.
Why Choose Viscose Jersey?
Viscose jersey is favored for its breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and draping ability. It is a versatile fabric that can be easily dyed and printed, making it a popular choice for designers and manufacturers.
Benefits of Viscose Jersey
Viscose jersey is known for its softness, comfort, and ability to drape well on the body. It is also relatively affordable compared to natural fibers like silk, making it a cost-effective option for clothing production.
Overall, viscose jersey is a popular choice for clothing due to its comfort, versatility, and drape. Whether you're looking for a soft t-shirt or a flowy dress, viscose jersey is a fabric worth considering for your wardrobe.
Tips for sewing with viscose jersey
Cutting out
Viscose jersey is very stretchy so it is important to lay your fabric out flat when cutting it out . Do not allow it to hang off the end of your cutting table as you might do with woven lightweight fabrics. It will likely stretch and distort your cutting out . If your cutting table/ares is not long enough to lay your entire fabric out , fold it into a stack at the end of your area and roll out as you need to lay your pattern pieces out to cut . Use lots of pins weights. If you are using pins make sure that they are sharp as a blunt pin may snag your fabric.
Use a stretch/ballpoint needle in your sewing machine.
These needles have a rounded tip which allows it to pass through the knit fibres. This can avoid damage to the fabric and also the occurance of skipped stitches.
Use Maraflex thread
The introduction of this magic thread by Gutermann into the sewing world has revolusionised sewing knit fabrics. Use it in your sewing machine as if you were sewing a non stretch fabric using it as your top thread winding & it on your bobbin. Set your stitch a little longer than normal and stitch away. I usually do a test first on a scrap piece and pull/stretch the seam to test for stitch breakages.
If you use normal non stretch thread select a zigzag on your sewing machine or a stretch stitch. My preference is a zigzag of 1.5wide and 2 long . I would do a test seam on a scrap piece of the fabric I intend to sew.
Stabilise your shoulder seams.
Because viscose jersey is so stretchy , it is important to stabilise your shoulder seams from stretching out .
I am a fan of using a piece of stretch interfacing or clear elastic stitched with the seam.
Pattern Suggestions for Viscose Jersey
A wrap dress is a great choice.
Keilo wrap dress/jumpsuit by Named Clothing is wonderfully casual, yet stylish pieces of clothing! You can sew both variations either with or without sleeves. The dress has a neck band, and a vent at the back hem to add room for movement. The armholes of a sleeveless dress are finished with a bias binding.
Westcliff dress by Friday Pattern Co is an easy to sew dress for knit fabrics. It features a wrap front with full coverage and a neckline that won’t gape!
Mirri by Wardrobe By Me is a body-hugging faux wrap dress with a shawl-like classic collar that creates a modest V neckline. The skirt is fitted through the high hip area and flared at the hem.
Wanda by Wardrobe By Me Is a figure-hugging feminine jersey wrap dress with a six gore skirt. The open front makes it perfect for breastfeeding.
Tops/Tees
Adrienne top by Friday Pattern Co is a fashion forward wardrobe essential. It is a knit top with billowy statement sleeves that are gathered up at the shoulders and hems with elastic. The length is slightly cropped with the hem hitting just below your bellybutton.
Waterfall raglan by Chalk & Notch is a swing shape knit top or dress. There are three views: a cropped top, a ruffle top, and a ruffle dress. The sleeve has a slim fit with three length options: short, 3/4, and long sleeves.
Pearl Cardigan by Tilly & The Buttons is a V-neck wrap cardigan that’s bang on trend. Wear Pearl with jeans, a denim skirt or over your favourite dress - it’s the perfect cardigan to tie your look together.
Bateau Top by Friday Pattern Co. is a classic bateau top that is sure to become an elegant and well worn essential in your handmade wardrobe. It is a knit top that can be made with long or short sleeves. It is designed to be a relaxed fit top - not loose but not tight. It will pair well with pretty much any Friday Pattern.
