Jersey fabric is one of the most versatile and widely used fabrics in the world today. It has a soft and comfortable texture, making it ideal for various clothing items such as t-shirts, dresses, and athletic wear. However, not many people know the origin or history of jersey fabric. In this post, we'll explore the roots of jersey fabric, how it has evolved over time, what type of jersey fabrics known on the market, how to care jersey fabrics, application of jersey fabrics in fashion and sport wear and its various uses. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast, a designer, or just curious about the fabric you wear, you're in the right place. Let's dive in!
History of the Jersey fabric:
The history of the jersey fabric can be traced back to the late 1700s when it was first produced in Jersey, a small island in the English Channel. Initially, it was used for making undergarments, but it was not until the early 20th century that it made its way into the world of fashion. In the 1920s, Coco Chanel famously incorporated soft and stretchy fabric into her iconic designs, paving the way for its widespread use in high fashion.
Mademoiselle Chanel loved jersey fabrics. Chanel was particularly fond of using cotton jerseys in her clothing designs, which was at the time considered unconventional for high-end fashion and she shocked the fashion industry by using it as part of her collection. Her vision for creating garments that were both comfortable and stylish was well ahead of its time, and her use of jersey fabric was a testament to that.
In the years that followed, jersey fabric became a popular choice for clothing designers due to its versatility and softness. While cotton jersey was the go-to choice for a long time, today, you can also find jerseys made from viscose and other materials.
The history of the jersey fabric may have started in humbly, but today, it is one of the most commonly used fabrics in fashion and sportswear. Its popularity shows no signs of waning, and it remains a staple in many people's wardrobes.
Type of Jersey Fabrics:
When it comes to jersey fabric, there are several fibre types available in the market. Each type is characterized by its unique texture, stretch, and fibre composition. Let's take a closer look at the most popular types of jersey fabric by fibre.
1. Viscose Jersey Fabric
Viscose jersey is a popular type of jersey fabric that is soft, comfortable, and lightweight. It is usually made from wool pulp and quite often from the woody parts of the cotton plant, the fibres are made using a wet-spin process. The fabric has a silky appearance that drapes beautifully. Viscose jersey fabric is also breathable, making it perfect for summer clothing. Many people things viscose jersey are syntactic which we need to clarify this fabric is natural fibre.
2. Cotton Jersey Fabric
Cotton jersey fabric is another popular type of jersey that is soft and breathable. It is made from cotton fibres, making it a natural and comfortable choice for clothing. Cotton jersey fabric is commonly used for t-shirts, dresses, and casual wear.
3. Polyester Jersey Fabric
Polyester jersey fabric is a durable and long-lasting option for sportswear and activewear. It is lightweight, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying, making it a perfect choice for sports and outdoor activities.
4. Rayon Jersey Fabric
Rayon jersey fabric is a soft and lightweight material that is perfect for summer clothing. It is made from wood pulp and has a silky appearance that drapes well. Rayon jersey is also breathable and easy to care for, making it a popular choice for dresses, skirts, and tops.
5. Wool Jersey Fabric
Wool jersey fabric is a luxurious and warm option for winter clothing. It is made from natural wool fibres and has a soft texture that is perfect for cosy sweaters, scarves, and hats.
Single jersey, double jersey, jacquard jersey, Clocqué jersey:
Jersey fabric is versatile and comes in various types to suit different clothing needs. Understanding the different types of jersey fabric is essential to determine which is best for your intended use.
Single jersey is the most common type of jersey fabric. It's lightweight, flexible, and stretchy, making it perfect for casual wear, activewear, and baby clothing. Double jersey is thicker and heavier than single jersey. It has two sets of interlocking loops, giving it a two-faced appearance, making it ideal for jackets, hoodies, and skirts.
Jacquard jersey has intricate patterns woven into the fabric. The design is created by weaving in additional yarns or stitching patterns, giving it texture and interest. It is commonly used for dressy occasions such as formal dresses or tops.
Clocqué jersey is a heavy and textured jersey with raised designs. It is similar to Jacquard but with more raised features, giving it a quilted effect. It is perfect for winter clothing, such as jackets and coats.
In choosing which type of jersey fabric to use, consider the purpose, weight, texture, and care of the fabric. The weight and texture of the fabric will determine the level of warmth and comfort it provides, while its care instructions will affect its durability and longevity.
Overall, understanding the different types of jersey fabric will help you make informed decisions on which type of fabric to use for different clothing pieces and occasions. With this knowledge, you can choose a fabric that will provide the right balance of comfort, style, and durability.
How to sew with Jersey fabric:
When it comes to sewing with jersey fabric, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you should use a sewing machine needle specifically designed for knit fabrics. The needle should have a rounded tip, which prevents it from snagging or damaging the delicate fibres in the fabric.
Second, it is important to use a stretch stitch when sewing with jersey fabric. This is because jersey fabric has a lot of stretch and can easily become distorted if a straight stitch is used. A zigzag or serger stitch is ideal for securing the seams in place without affecting the stretch of the fabric.
Third, it is recommended to use a walking foot attachment on your sewing machine. This will help the fabric move evenly through the machine and prevent it from bunching up or stretching out of shape.
In summary, jersey fabric is a versatile and comfortable fabric that can be used to create a variety of clothing items. When sewing with jersey fabric, it is important to use a needle designed for knit fabrics, a stretch stitch, and a walking foot attachment on your sewing machine. With these tips, you can confidently sew with jersey fabric and create beautiful and comfortable clothing pieces.
How to care Jersey fabric:
Jersey fabric is a comfortable and versatile textile that can be found in a variety of garments and products. While it is a durable and easy-to-care-for material, there are some tips you should keep in mind to keep your jersey fabric looking and feeling its best. Here are some guidelines to help you care for your jersey fabric:
1. Always read the care label: Before washing or caring for your jersey fabric, check the care label to see if there are any specific instructions you need to follow.
2. Wash with similar colours: When washing your jersey fabric, be sure to wash it with similar colours to prevent any colour bleeding or staining.
3. Use gentle detergent: Jersey fabric is delicate and can be easily damaged by harsh detergents. Use a gentle detergent that is designed for delicate fabrics to avoid any damage or shrinking.
4. Wash on a gentle cycle: Jersey fabric should be washed on a gentle cycle to avoid any damage or stretching.
5. Avoid high heat: High heat can cause jersey fabric to shrink or lose its shape. Avoid using high heat when drying your jersey fabric.
6. Air dry: Air drying your jersey fabric is the best option to avoid any damage or shrinkage. Hang it up on a clothesline or lay it flat on a clean, dry surface.
7. Iron on low heat: If you need to iron your jersey fabric, use a low heat setting and a pressing cloth to avoid any damage.
By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your jersey fabric stays looking and feeling great for years to come.
Pros and Cons of using Jersey Fabrics:
Just like any other fabric, jersey has its own set of pros and cons. Here are a few things to consider when deciding whether or not to use jersey fabric in your clothing or athletic gear:
- Comfortable: Jersey is a soft and stretchy fabric that is known for its comfort. It's perfect for creating pieces that are cosy and easy to move around in.
- Versatile: Jersey comes in a wide variety of weights, colours, and patterns, making it easy to find the right fabric for your project. Plus, it can be used for everything from t-shirts and leggings to dresses and skirts.
- Durable: With proper care, jersey fabric can last for a long time without losing its shape or colour.
- Stretch: While jersey's stretchiness is one of its pros, it can also be a drawback if you're not careful. The fabric can easily become misshapen or stretched out if not sewn correctly.
- Transparency: Depending on the weight and colour of the fabric, jersey can be somewhat transparent. This can be a problem if you're trying to create a more modest garment.
- Cost: Jersey can be more expensive than other fabrics, especially if you're looking for high-quality materials.
Overall, jersey fabric is a great option for those who want comfortable and versatile clothing that will last for a long time. However, it's important to keep in mind the potential drawbacks before you start your project. With the right care and attention, jersey fabric can be a wonderful addition to your wardrobe or athletic gear collection.
Happy sewing ❤️
Noemi
