How to Make a Sweater From Knit Fabric

Choose a pattern that is suitable for knits and a fabric with the amount of stretch called for on the pattern. The pattern back will tell you what types of fabric are appropriate for that pattern. Good pattern choices for sweater fabric include cardigans and pullovers. Machine or hand-wash the fabric according to the manufacturer's recommendations so that any shrinkage happens before you make the sweater.

Pin and cut the pattern from the fabric. Because of the fabric texture, threads will come loose from the cut edges. Try to handle the fabric as little as possible after cutting.

Use a 2.5 mm width zigzag stitch for all seams to prevent the fabric from bunching and to maintain the stretch even at the seams. To prevent the fabric from unraveling at the edges, finish each seam by binding edges with a lightweight fabric or use a serger to finish the seams. Strengthen shoulder seams with twill tape so they don't stretch and become misshapen.

Stabilize the bottom edge with a zigzag stitch. Press under and hand stitch for a hem that will move with the stretch of the fabric.