I love knits! Unfortunately they are often more expensive than wovens, which adds up quickly when you’re sewing for adults or older kids. I’m not sure if I saw the idea online or someone mentioned it in person, but it was a DUH moment when I realized I could be buying clearance or thrifted jersey sheets to use as fabric! (You can also use woven sheets, I’ve used them as quilt backings; I just mainly sew knits for clothes).
I am not a big number cruncher but you can check out this post from Sew Much Ado for converting sizes to actual yardage numbers. I always cut & save the elastic from the fitted sheets too – and the pillowcases then make easy drawstring bags.
If you’re buying brand new sheets, I swear by the Target jersey sets, especially if you can find them on clearance after the ‘back to school’ stuff is on sale. Even if you don’t love the colors, they’re also great for rough drafts and muslins. Thrift stores are another great place to look for even cheaper options!
People always ask how they wash or if they’re too flimsy but I have been pretty happy with the quality of the Target sheets. I don’t think they’re super thin, which makes them good for beginners to experiment with, and I’ve experienced no pilling or other yuckiness even though they are a poly blend. That being said, they don’t have enough recovery for leggings but make great lounge pants, dresses, and t-shirts.
If you like this post, check out these while you’re here:
- 40+ Ideas for using up knit fabric scraps
- 13+ modern books on refashioning clothing & upcycle sewing
- 10 refashioning tips for successful sewing
- 18+ creative t-shirt refashion ideas
Here are a few things I have made from knit sheets!
Greenstyle Creations Raglan T-shirt
Greenstyle Raglan & Maxi Dress
I love sheets!
Dana
Tuesday 14th of April 2015
Love this! (of course) I started a hashtag on IG #itsanothertargetsheet. ;) And I will definitely be blogging my adventures in sewing with jersey sheets.
Stephanie - Swoodson Says
Wednesday 15th of April 2015
Love it! looking forward to seeing what you make.
Melwyk
Tuesday 13th of January 2015
I use sheets quite a bit -- but almost entirely woven. This is only because I never find jersey sheets at the thrift stores around here, and there are no massive sheet sales in my small town regular shops either. Oh well, I just keep looking! Love all of your ideas.
Stephanie - Swoodson Says
Wednesday 14th of January 2015
It's funny, I never think to use woven sheets! I have a duvet project that I ought to find a sheet for the back though, good reminder :)
Vicky myers
Sunday 11th of January 2015
I love this post, what a great idea. Somewhat frustrated that the UK are not find of knit Jersey sheets, they are difficult to get hold of and not cheap $70 for a double bed duvet cover!!
Stephanie - Swoodson Says
Wednesday 14th of January 2015
I wonder why it's so different! That would make it much less appealing, for sure.