Beginner’s Guide: How to Sew Knitted Pieces Together

Learning how to sew knitted pieces together is an essential skill for any knitter. Whether you’re making a sweater, a hat, or a pair of mittens, knowing how to sew your knitted pieces together neatly and securely can elevate your projects from homemade to professional-looking.

In this beginner’s guide, we will walk you through the process of sewing knitted pieces together, step by step. From preparing your pieces to choosing the right sewing technique and finishing touches, we will cover everything you need to know to achieve perfect seams every time.

To start, gather all of your knitted pieces and make sure they are blocked and ready to be sewn together. Blocking your pieces will ensure that they are the correct size and shape, making it easier to align the seams and create a polished finished product. It’s also a good idea to weave in any loose ends before you begin sewing to avoid any bumps or lumps in your final seams.

Once your pieces are prepared, you can begin sewing them together using the appropriate technique for your project. The three most common sewing techniques for knitted pieces are mattress stitch, whip stitch, and backstitch. Each technique has its advantages and is best suited for different types of seams, so it’s important to choose the right one for your project.

After sewing your pieces together, you can add any finishing touches, such as reinforcing the seams or hiding any visible stitches. This can be done using techniques like slip stitch crochet or surface crochet. These finishing touches will not only make your seams more durable but also give your project a polished and professional appearance.

What is knitting?

Knitting is a method of fabric construction that involves using two or more long needles to create a fabric by interlocking loops of yarn. It is a popular craft and hobby enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.

Knitting can be traced back to ancient times, with evidence of knitted fabrics dating back to the 11th century. It has since evolved and developed into various techniques and styles, making it a versatile craft.

The basic premise of knitting is to create fabric by forming loops of yarn and interlocking them with the needles. This is done by moving the stitches from one needle to the other, creating a continuous row of loops.

Knitting can be done with different types of yarns, from thin and delicate threads to thick and chunky fibers. The choice of yarn can greatly impact the final fabric’s texture and appearance. Additionally, knitting can be used to create a wide variety of items, including clothing, accessories, and home decor.

There are various knitting techniques and stitches that can be used to create different effects and patterns in the fabric. Some common knitting stitches include the knit stitch, the purl stitch, and various combinations and variations of these basic stitches.

Knitting can be done by hand, using traditional knitting needles, or by using a knitting machine. Hand knitting allows for more flexibility and creativity, while machine knitting can speed up the process for larger projects.

Overall, knitting is a relaxing and rewarding craft that allows individuals to create unique and personalized items. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced knitter, there is always something new to learn and explore in the world of knitting.

Importance of sewing knitted pieces

When working on a knitting project, it is common to have multiple knitted pieces that need to be sewn together to create a finished garment or accessory. While it may be tempting to skip this step and rely on glue or other adhesive methods, sewing knitted pieces together provides several benefits:

Durability: Sewing ensures that the knitted pieces are securely attached to each other, improving the overall durability of the finished item. This is especially important for items that will be subject to frequent use or washing.
Flexibility: By sewing the knitted pieces together, you have the opportunity to adjust the fit and shape of the garment or accessory. This flexibility allows you to create a customized piece that fits your body or desired style.
Aesthetics: When done properly, sewing knitted pieces together can create a seamless and polished appearance. It helps to hide any seams or gaps, resulting in a more professional-looking finish.
Stability: Sewing provides stability to the knitted fabric, preventing it from stretching or distorting over time. This is especially crucial for pieces that have a lot of weight or tension, such as sweaters or blankets.

Sewing knitted pieces together may require some practice and patience, but the end result is well worth the effort. It not only enhances the overall quality and longevity of your knitted items but also allows you to showcase your skills as a crafter.

Tools Needed:

Yarn needle: A blunt-ended needle with a large eye that is used for sewing knitted pieces together. It is important to choose a needle that is suitable for the weight and texture of your yarn.
Pins: These are used to hold the pieces in place before sewing. They are particularly helpful when working with complex patterns or when trying to align specific points.
Scissors: A good pair of sharp scissors is essential for trimming excess yarn and cutting thread.
Tape measure: This will help you accurately measure the distance between points or determine the length of yarn needed for sewing.
Blocking tools: Blocking mats, pins, and a spray bottle can be helpful for blocking knitted pieces before sewing. Blocking helps to shape and flatten the pieces, making them easier to sew together.
Stitch markers: These can be used to mark specific points on the knitted pieces, making it easier to align them during sewing.
Optional: A seam gauge can be used to measure the distance between stitches for more accurate sewing.

Knitting Needles

Knitting needles are essential tools for knitting and sewing knitted pieces together. They come in a variety of sizes, materials, and lengths, allowing you to choose the right needle for your project.

Materials:

Metal needles: These needles are durable and smooth, allowing stitches to slide easily. They are great for knitting with larger yarns or when you need a firmer grip.
Wooden needles: Wooden needles are lightweight and have a warm feel. They are perfect for knitting with lighter yarns and for those who prefer a softer touch.
Bamboo needles: Bamboo needles have a similar feel to wooden needles but with a bit more flexibility. They are gentle on your hands and work well with slippery or sensitive yarns.
Plastic needles: Plastic needles are affordable and lightweight. They are a good option for beginners or for knitting projects that require larger needles.

Sizes:

Knitting needles come in different sizes indicated by numbers or measurements. The size determines the thickness of the needle and the resulting stitch size. You can find the appropriate needle size for your project in your knitting pattern or by checking the gauge of your yarn.

Lengths:

Knitting needles are available in various lengths, ranging from 9 inches to 14 inches or longer. The length you choose depends on your personal preference and the size of your knitting project. Shorter needles are convenient for small projects or when knitting in the round, while longer needles are useful for larger projects and when you need to hold more stitches.

Choosing the right needle:

When selecting knitting needles, consider the type of yarn, the stitch pattern, and the size of the finished project. Thicker yarns typically require larger needles, while delicate yarns work best with smaller needles. It’s also important to choose a needle size that matches the gauge recommended in your pattern to ensure accurate measurements.

Ultimately, the choice of knitting needles is a personal preference. Experiment with different materials and sizes to find the ones that work best for you and your knitting projects.

Yarn

Yarn is an essential material in knitting. It is made up of fibers that are spun together to create a continuous strand. There are various types of yarn available, each with its own characteristics and uses. When choosing yarn for your knitting project, it’s important to consider the weight, fiber content, and color.

Weight: Yarn is categorized by its weight, which refers to the thickness of the yarn. Common weight categories include lace, fingering, sport, worsted, and bulky. The weight of the yarn determines how dense or airy your knitted fabric will be. Thinner yarns are best suited for delicate projects like lace shawls, while thicker yarns are great for cozy sweaters and blankets.

Fiber Content: Yarn can be made from a variety of fibers, including natural materials like wool, silk, cotton, and bamboo, as well as synthetic materials like acrylic, polyester, and nylon. Each type of fiber has its own unique qualities and properties. Wool, for example, is warm and resilient, while cotton is breathable and lightweight. Consider the desired characteristics of your knitted item when choosing the fiber content of your yarn.

Color: Yarn comes in a wide range of colors, from solids to variegated and self-striping options. When selecting yarn, think about the color scheme you want for your knitting project. Solid colors can showcase intricate stitch patterns, while variegated or self-striping yarns can add visual interest without the need for complicated techniques.

It’s important to ensure that the yarn you choose is appropriate for your knitting project. Always check the recommended yarn weight and fiber content specified in the pattern. If you’re unsure, ask for assistance at your local yarn store or consult with experienced knitters for guidance.

Tapestry needle

A tapestry needle is a type of needle that is commonly used for sewing knitted pieces together. It has a blunt tip and a large eye, making it easy to thread with yarn or thread. The tapestry needle is often made of metal or plastic, and it comes in various sizes.

When sewing knitted pieces together, the tapestry needle is the essential tool that helps create a seamless and professional finish. It allows you to join the edges of the knitted pieces with precise and even stitches.

Here are some tips for using a tapestry needle:

Select a tapestry needle with an appropriate size for your project. A smaller needle is ideal for finer yarn, while a larger needle works well with bulky yarn.
Thread the tapestry needle with the same yarn or thread used in your knitting project. Make sure to leave a tail that can be woven in later.
Align the edges of the knitted pieces you want to sew together. Insert the tapestry needle under the first stitch of one piece and pull it through.
Insert the tapestry needle under the corresponding stitch on the other piece, moving from right to left or left to right, depending on your preference.
Repeat the process of inserting the needle under the stitches on both pieces, creating a whipstitch or mattress stitch to secure the edges together.
Once you have finished sewing the pieces together, weave in the loose ends of yarn or thread using the tapestry needle to ensure a neat and tidy finish.

By using a tapestry needle and following these steps, you can easily sew your knitted pieces together and achieve a seamless and professional-looking result in your knitting projects.

Preparation

Before you begin sewing your knitted pieces together, it’s important to make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials at hand:

Knitted pieces: Make sure you have all the knitted pieces you need for your project. Lay them out flat and check for any mistakes or issues that need to be addressed before sewing.
Yarn: Use the same yarn that you used to knit your pieces. This will ensure a seamless look and similar stretchability.
Needles: Choose a needle size that matches your yarn thickness. You may prefer to use a blunt tapestry needle or a sharp sewing needle, depending on your personal preference.
Scissors: Have a pair of sharp scissors on hand for cutting yarn and trimming any excess threads.
Pins: You may find it helpful to have some straight pins to hold your knitted pieces together temporarily before sewing them.
Tape measure or ruler: Measure and check the dimensions of your knitted pieces to ensure they match the required measurements.
Blocking tools: If your knitted pieces need blocking to achieve the correct shape, make sure you have the necessary blocking tools such as blocking mats or pins.

By gathering these tools and materials in advance, you’ll be well-prepared to sew your knitted pieces together with ease. Make sure to set up a comfortable and well-lit sewing area before you begin.

Blocking knitted pieces

Blocking is an essential step in the knitting process that helps to shape and size your knitted pieces. It involves wetting the knitted fabric and then shaping it to the desired measurements before allowing it to dry. Blocking helps to even out stitches and create a polished finished look for your knitted garment.

Here are some steps to follow when blocking your knitted pieces:

Prepare your knitted piece: Before blocking, make sure that you have completed all necessary knitting, such as weaving in ends. Also, read the care instructions for your yarn to determine the best method for blocking.
Wet your knitted piece: Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water and gently submerge your knitted piece. Allow it to soak for about 15-30 minutes, or until fully saturated. Avoid agitating or wringing the fabric.
Remove excess water: Carefully remove the knitted piece from the water and gently squeeze out any excess water. Avoid twisting or wringing the fabric, as this can cause the stitches to become misshapen.
Shape your knitted piece: Lay a clean towel on a flat surface and place your knitted piece on top. Gently stretch and shape the fabric to the desired measurements, using blocking pins or T-pins to hold it in place. Pay special attention to maintaining even tension and shaping any specific curves or edges.
Allow to dry: Leave your knitted piece to dry completely, ensuring that it is in a well-ventilated area and away from direct sunlight. Depending on the yarn and climate, this can take anywhere from a few hours to a day or more.
Finishing touches: Once your knitted piece is dry, remove the blocking pins or T-pins and gently reshape if necessary. Your knitted piece is now ready to be sewn together or incorporated into your project.

Blocking is particularly important for pieces that need to fit together, such as a garment with multiple panels or sections. It helps to ensure that all pieces have the same dimensions and will line up properly when sewn together.

Remember, blocking is not always necessary, but it can greatly improve the finished look of your knitted pieces. Experiment with different blocking methods and techniques to find the one that works best for your yarn and desired outcome.

Gathering necessary materials

Before you start sewing your knitted pieces together, it’s important to gather all the necessary materials. Having everything on hand will make the sewing process smooth and efficient. Here is a list of materials you will need:

Knitted pieces: Make sure you have all the knitted pieces you need for your project. These can be sweater panels, hat sections, or any other knitted components that need to be sewn together.
Yarn: Choose a yarn that matches the color or texture of your knitted pieces. This will help the sewing stitches blend in and create a seamless finish.
Tapestry needle: A tapestry needle is essential for sewing knitted pieces together. It has a large eye and a blunt tip, making it easy to thread yarn through the stitches.
Scissors: You will need scissors to cut the yarn after sewing. Make sure they are sharp enough to cleanly cut the yarn, but be careful not to accidentally cut any of the knitted stitches.
Pins: Using pins can help keep your knitted pieces in place while you sew. They can be especially useful when working with larger or more complex projects.
Blocking tools: If your knitted pieces need to be blocked before sewing, gather the necessary blocking tools. This may include blocking mats, T-pins, and a spray bottle filled with water.

Having these materials ready will ensure a smooth and efficient sewing process, allowing you to create a finished project that looks professional and well-made.

Techniques

Whip Stitch: This is a simple and common technique for sewing knitted pieces together. It involves sewing through the edges of the pieces using a whip-like motion. To do this, insert the needle from front to back through the first stitch on one piece, then through the corresponding stitch on the other piece. Repeat this process, alternating between the two pieces, until the seam is complete.
Mattress Stitch: This is another popular technique for joining knitted pieces. It creates a nearly invisible seam by sewing through the purl bumps on the sides of the pieces. To use this technique, align the pieces with the right sides facing out. Insert the needle under the first horizontal bar between the stitches on one piece, then under the corresponding bar on the other piece. Continue sewing in this manner, alternating between the two pieces, until the seam is complete.
Backstitch: This technique creates a sturdy seam and is often used for sewing side seams. It involves sewing through the fabric in a straight line, stitching back and forth. To use this technique, align the pieces with the wrong sides facing out. Insert the needle through the fabric from back to front, a short distance away from the edge. Bring the needle back through the fabric, slightly backward from the initial stitch. Continue sewing in this manner, making small stitches back and forth, until the seam is complete.
Slip Stitch Seam: This technique is ideal for joining pieces that have a selvage edge. It involves slipping stitches from one piece onto a spare needle, then grafting them together. To use this technique, place the pieces side by side with the right sides facing out. Insert a spare needle through the first stitch on one piece, as if to purl, and slip the stitch onto the needle. Repeat this process, slipping stitches onto the needle from the other piece. Once all the stitches are on the needle, graft them together using a tapestry needle and yarn in a complementary color.

FAQ:

What is the best way to sew knitted pieces together?

The best way to sew knitted pieces together is by using a yarn needle and matching yarn. Start by lining up the edges of the pieces and use the needle to sew them together using a whip stitch. This technique creates an invisible seam and helps to maintain the elasticity of the knitted fabric.

Can I sew knitted pieces together with a sewing machine?

While it is possible to sew knitted pieces together with a sewing machine, it is not recommended. Knitted fabric is naturally stretchy, and using a sewing machine can create rigid seams that may cause the fabric to pucker or lose its shape. It is best to sew knitted pieces together by hand using a needle and yarn to maintain the elasticity of the fabric.

What type of stitch should I use to sew knitted pieces together?

The whip stitch is the most commonly used stitch to sew knitted pieces together. It is a simple stitch that creates a strong, invisible seam. To whip stitch, line up the edges of the pieces, insert the needle from back to front along the edge of the first piece, then insert it from back to front along the edge of the second piece, repeating this motion until the pieces are sewn together.

How do I hide the yarn tails when sewing knitted pieces together?

To hide the yarn tails when sewing knitted pieces together, you can weave them into the seam. After sewing the pieces together, thread the tail onto a yarn needle and weave it in and out of the stitches along the seam, making sure to secure it tightly. Once the tail is woven in, trim off any excess yarn.

What should I do if I make a mistake while sewing knitted pieces together?

If you make a mistake while sewing knitted pieces together, you can simply undo the stitches and try again. Knitted fabric is forgiving and allows for easy undoing and redoing of stitches. If you are having trouble, you can use a crochet hook to carefully undo the stitches without damaging the fabric.

Step-by-Step Guide: Sewing Knitted Pieces Together