I have a coverstitch machine, but sometimes it's just easier to use my twin needle.
To prevent tunneling on knit tops, I serge/zigzag clear elastic (width of elastic = width of hem, if possible) to the wrong side of the hem, then turn and topstitch with the twin needle on the right side. The elastic provides the extra "beef" needed to prevent tunneling, plus it keeps the hem from getting too wavy or stretched out. The clear elastic doesn't seem to add any visible bulk on most knits. I like this finish so much better than the Steam-a-Seam 2 or wash away stabilizer techniques -- I just can't seem to get those techniques right, and I've found the elastic to be much more stable.
I also use this technique on my gym clothes, but I'll often use poly knit elastic as it's available in wider widths than clear elastic and is a better match for the thick, sturdy knits I use in my workout tops. |
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Great tip, Jackie! This sounds like it would do the trick...I'll have to try it.
12/13/04 8:48 PM
This sounds like a great idea! One question: you say width of elastic = width of hem..I've only seen clear elastic in 1/4 and 3/8 inches. Do you buy it wider, or are the hems really this narrow?
12/13/04 10:51 PM
dvazz, I've been lucky enough to find wide clear elastic -- up to 3/4", so yes, in those cases, the wider elastic goes with the wider hem ...
12/13/04 10:54 PM
It's so nice to know you can get clear elastic up to 3/4" wide, thanks Jackie, I'll be on the lookout for it.
12/14/04 10:26 AM
Jackie please tell us where you've found the extra wide clear elastic.
12/14/04 11:30 AM
The wide clear elastic is from Sherrie's co-op -- "sewingsupplycoop" on Yahoo groups.
12/14/04 8:03 PM
Do you think stretch lace would work too? Its easier to find in wide widths.
12/15/04 9:42 AM
I like this idea a lot! Much neater than the paper stabilizer.
3/31/05 11:25 AM
hi i just purchased my coverstitch and inspite of the best advice - i think i got a lemon and have to send it in for repairs; so, i'll try the twin needle on my Singer instead!
5/5/07 10:41 PM