HOW TO finish KNIT necklines? 4 techniques you need to try!

Dear Sewing Friends, in this video I would love to share with you 4 ways (7 techniques in total with variations) that I finish knit necklines (and armholes, too) on my garments. I quick reminder that this is how I do it, but as always - there are many more ways how you can go about it. Choose what works for You and I truly hope that it makes your sewing better and easier and more fun, with plenty of neckline options for your next project :)
How to sew a round knit neckline STEP-BY-STEP - • How to sew a neckband ...
How to sew a V-neck neckline - • How to draft and sew V...
How to draft a hood - • How to draft a hood - ...
Join this channel to get access to perks:
/ @thoughtfulcreativity
Members Extra - flat "fold under" neckline method - • EARLY ACCESS! Alternat...
Members Extra - facing in a zipper jacket - • MEMBERS EXTRA - how to...
Members Extra - zipper pockets - • Members Extra - how to...
My sewing machine is Singer 7470, you can see it here - • Singer 7470 Sewing Mac...
My FAVORITE videos for You to enjoy:
✂️ 7 amazing sewing tools - • I BOUGHT 7 unbelievabl...
✂️ Perfect neckband every time - • How to sew a neckband ...
✂️ Gifts to sew - • 10 EASY STOCKING STUFF...
✂️ EASY circle skirt - • SUPER EASY circle skir...
✂️ 30 minute apron - • Apron cutting and stit...
MY FAVORITE SEWING TOOLS:
1. Bias Tape Maker - amzn.to/3151IFh
2. Medical Tracing Paper (I use it for pattern drafting) - amzn.to/2EMafDm
3. Water soluble thread -amzn.to/3AHePQi
4. Diagonal seam tape - amzn.to/3OyHHjb
5. Bulky Seam Jumper (some sewing machines come with it and some don't) - amzn.to/3GDdRbD
6. Eloflex Stretchable thread (not the same as shirring elastic) - amzn.to/3VEAhxx
0:00 - intro
0:52 - Quick overview of sewing a neckband
3:00 Option 1
4:56 EXTRA TIP
5:40 Option 2
10:07 Option 3
12:42 "Fold under" method
17:12 EXTRA TIP
18:50 Binding 2 ways
24:36 Facing
29:41 Woven necklines
This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase something from the links displayed above I get a small commission. It does not come out of your pocket, but it does help me to support this channel. Thank YOU!
#nopatternsewing #easypatterndrafting #thoughtfulcreativity
Thank You for being here and I hope that this channel encourages you to sew and make beautiful things!
xxx, Alisa

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

HOW TO FINISH SEAMS -kzbin.info/www/bejne/haXOnnqvqcenfrc HOW TO HEM - kzbin.info/www/bejne/pmrNY5qqn6uro5I ABOUT SEAM ALLOWANCES - kzbin.info/www/bejne/goKWn2ejls5snsk

[@eileenrhoades3343]

This is exactly what I was looking for! Thank you for clear, non- rushed explanations.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Eileen, thank YOU! :) I hope this will help people and give new ideas and options on finishing knit necklines

[@rebclout]

My goodness! I just want to move in with you and sew with you all day and learn everything!! You have the best videos!!

[@lindak8664]

Being a long time woven fabric sewist, I have a thing about unfinished edges, even those which don’t unravel. So i much prefer the wrapped over version of the bindings. It looks so tidy! This tutorial was very thorough, and very informative. I’m still quite a novice at knit sewing, desperately trying to get better than wavy and wonky, this was so helpful 💐

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Totally hear you on the raw edges :) It took some time for myself to get over it, it is a work in progress :) when sewing with knits I have come to "feel the fabric" and sort of understand how it works, sometimes I just hold and feel the fabric in my hands for a bit before I start working with it. I know it sounds strange, but it gives me time to think about the best option for this or that material. Also, pressing (if you knits can take it, some are polyester and leave marks, so be careful or use a pressing cloth) saves the day when it comes to waves :)

[@stacybernier3158]

Thanks so much for this great video, even after sewing for several years, I still struggle a bit with neckbands. Had never thought of basting it first or attaching it before the shoulder seams were sewn. I look forward to trying your tips. Also, I really like your videos, you get to the point without wasting a lot of time chatting, and love that you show examples!

[@MizzBrill]

Thank you so much for this detail. I wasn't sure why I was getting mixed results - now I know why! Very informative and clear instructions! Love your channel!!!

[@vanessaknight7129]

Thank you taking time to explain in a slow motion.

[@debtaylor5156]

Morning happy Saturday. As always great video.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Happy Saturday!!! Hope this will give you extra ideas for sewing knits :)

[@Melissa-me]

This is awesome. I’ve never seen anyone use a new singer or coats n Clark.

[@Melissa-me]

@@Mataylor17 you’re weird for responding in this manner. Move on karen.

[@DangelyOnes]

Thank you, thank you and thank you!!! I really needed this!❤

[@petro3441]

I have learned this years ago but so nice to get a clear refresher from you. Thankyou

[@evelynferrer1322]

Hello, I liked all of them. Very good tutorial. Thank you

[@debbierenee7896]

This is so helpful!! The neckline method that you have on , I have never seen before. I can't wait to try it. It looks great for thiner knits.❤❤

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Glad it is helpful :) I use this method quite a bit, the most recent one was in my "sew easy" series, you can see it there done with a "flat" method, too :)

[@debbierenee7896]

@@ThoughtfulCreativity I will check it out!🤗

[@kristind.8379]

Although I rarely sew garments from the beginning, I love your videos . Your tutorials have given me more confidence to alter and draft patterns!! When my daughter asked me to completely change her thrifted prom dress into a pantsuit, I did it! It was adorable. I never would have attempted this a few years ago.

[@irishgirl1953]

Thus came at the perfect time as I am attempting my first t-shirt.

[@creativecheersoffashionlau7364]

Excellent work and teaching 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Hello Laura, thank you as always!!!

[@creativecheersoffashionlau7364]

@@ThoughtfulCreativity you’re very welcome! You’re the best! 😊

[@imsewblessed1578]

Hi Alisa 😊. Your sewing techniques are goals totally. I’m always so amazed at your precision. What spoke me to me in this video was “slow down”. Lol. I tend to zoom through it. I should make myself a sign to remind myself. It really does make the world of difference. Have a great weekend. Cheers 🥰

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Christine, hello there! Same here, I like to sew fast and efficiently, but when it comes to these - slowing down definitely helps. I remember when I first started blasting them and they would turn out perfectly from the first try - I used to do a little "yay!" and a happy dance :)

[@imsewblessed1578]

@@ThoughtfulCreativity 😘

[@KarenMcNeil-en2fn]

You always make such a neat and precise neckline 🙂

[@Mel-zy1qu]

This was so helpful! I have some lovely hemp jersey to sew up and will be trying the fold under technique.

[@Escape10mom]

Great info. I've used several of these techniques!

[@nirmaleedesoyza6265]

Love you dear..your work s sawing is perfect

[@annarademacher8359]

I have watched this video each time when sewing a knit garment to refresh my memory of the options. Thank you for all your great videos

[@dashiajames1882]

This timing is literally right. I have a duster but sleeves are to tight, so I decided to cut off the sleeve & sew the armhole. Love this channel..!! I'm glad I came across it. Its very teachable. I literally regret going to Fashion School..!! Well KZbin didn't exist..!!

[@michellepark778]

FOE also makes a nice finish for binding neckline. Grosgrain ribbon can also look cute, especially with ribbon with cute phases, patterns or images,

[@windlessoriginals1150]

Thank you

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

I am glad that this is helpful :)

[@kriskeuler4455]

Your timing is perfect ❤❤❤this is exactly the tutorial I needed for up cycling the items I recently purchased 🥰have a blessed day and thank you so much ❤

[@MrSalinas35]

You never cease to amaze me. We’ll done. 🎉

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

You're so kind, thank you!

[@NoonSkyWings]

This was so informative and well done 👏🏻

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Glad it was helpful!

[@juanitar.miller5210]

I really love your close-in video footage, makes it better than in person observation over an instructor’s shoulder!

[@SBL1932]

You are a wealth of knowledge. What an informative video. Thank you for sharing and teaching us how to do necklines and arm holes.

[@722dabba]

The first beautiful v neckline I did was step by step with your neck video running. I did exactly what you said. After years of lousy knit necklines, I got a beautiful neckline. Thank you!! I prefer maraflex ( which is gutterman brand)which I think is the best thread for straight stitching knits. I had a trouble with ecoflex. I got my maraflex from wawak on big cones

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

That is so awesome, THANK YOU for sharing and watching, awww, made my day!

[@jbartrug574]

Excellent job. ❤

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Thank you and happy sewing! :)

[@bettygentry9672]

Great info! Thanks so much!

[@susanrayner5836]

Brilliant thank you, never thought to put facing on hoodie love the finish x

[@travellerg.8068]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge

[@coolreality]

Amazing! Thank you so much.

[@bobbiec]

Thank you so much for this for the amazing tips!

[@buzzi2k]

These tips are absolutely fantastic!!

[@ivelissebouet9563]

Thank you sooomuch for this video. 🙏

[@InAgatasCottage]

Beautiful video as always. I love using binding for various projects. I use fold under technique, love the finish it gives me.

[@CatherineSews]

Beautiful techniques and super clear instructions! Thanks so much ❤

[@elzinawhite3199]

Awesome .. thanks ❤❤❤

[@gotmywish]

Your floral hoody is stunning! Luv it❤

[@clarapn]

Beautiful and complete video like ever, thanks🌷 👏👏

[@carolcarter865]

Excellent explanation. Thank you. Such a good tutorial ❤

[@elainemartin1321]

Excellent video!! Thank you---this is really helpful.

[@julien7935]

Great video. Thank you so much. You mentioned a foot for top stitching (Edge Joining / Edge Stitching foot) but thought to mention that I have this foot and certainly use it for edge/top stitching, with needle to the far left - gives about 1/8th inch sewing line. I bought it as a 'Stitch-in-the-Ditch' foot (quilting). I thought I'd mention this in case anyone was trying to find one to buy. :) I love the 'stretchy' thread for knit fabric collars. Will be very useful for making r-shirt collars. Thank you :)

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Yoi are a star, thank you!

[@marionlacey1986]

Thank you Alisa, this is another wonderful video! 🐾🥰

[@MariaSantos-dz9lh]

Thank you! I've been watching you since you were in Canada. Love these tutorials.

[@mollynaidoo7707]

Very informative and professional finish👏thank u❤

[@ouwerkerk28]

Awesome. Never knew about the flexible thread, I'm buying some now!

[@liletteautrey8481]

They are both good the way you did the neck liner for the sleeveless t shirt

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Thank you, Lilette! I hope these come in handy :)

[@DLowryVA]

Thanks! Helps me so so so much!!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Thank you so much, I truly appreciate that and I am happy it helped you

[@ridiculouscuteness3]

This is super helpful! I will definitely be trying the fold under technique now that I know how.

[@Silver_Threads_Sewing]

Your amazing! ❤

[@katherinebrockhoff8476]

Thank you for the 4th method- I love it! I’ve never liked the look of serging, fold over & topstitch on my projects & many patterns call for this. This is same effect & I suspect results in a much more stable RTW look. Great refresh on the other methods too.

[@cindymichaud7111]

So wonderfully skilled. God bless you 🙏👑✝💖

[@viktoriabalensiefen8911]

Thanks, so much, it helped so much finishing my first ever Jersey T-Shirt. Using a twin needle gives the right look.

[@pbeths59]

Always very clear videos! I recently purchased Eloflex thread at major craft store. Have you ever had problems with this thread breaking? I am beginning to think the thread is old because gently pull and it breaks!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Hmmm... That's interesting. I have a pink Eloflex and it is the only one that broke a couple of times while I was sewing, but then I adjusted my tension and it was all good. If it breaks at a gentle pull - I would assume the same as what you said, that it might be old... I had the same happen to regular (other brand) all purpose thread that was old. Hmmm... I know people have said under my videos that they want to burn Eloflex thread, lol, but I honestly don't have many problems with it. Maraflex is another one that people love to use. Also, I have done straight stitch with a regular all purpose thread, but as I mentioned in the video - longer stitch length and making sure that the neckline isn't tight is the rule of thumb to avoid popped seams when doing straight stitch on knit fabrics.

[@rosemarysheppard3619]

This is so informative. Stretch necklines are really tricky for me so this video has been really helpful …. Thank you. And your work is so beautifully presented. Brilliant 👏👏🥰

[@rhondacronkhite606]

Great video and nice work. I’m making a stretch fabric top and wondered how to finish the neck. Going to try the fold under method.

[@arvettadelashmit9337]

I'm not going to drive very far to buy knit fabrics. Lexington is over 120 miles from here. We have four quilt shops, plus one Walmart, here. There aren't a lot of choices to be found here to make garments out of. That's why I shop in Second Hand Shops. Yes, I needed this video to better understand how to finish my necklines. Thank you for this video.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Arvetta, hello there :) Not many choices where I live either, but I do have a few online shops I trust - that's where I get my knit fabrics :) second hand is also a great option!

[@rosariacarlostella9105]

There is also Maraflex by Gütermann who make a stretch thread for straight stitch seeing on stretch fabrics. I’ve just recently tried it and it is INCREDIBLE!!! it doesn’t break when swing and has an amazing stretch ability when sewn in.

[@avdm196]

I enjoyed watching the video. Always nice to have different techniques explained in one instruction. Another brand offering good quality elastic thread is Mettler-Amann : the thread is called Seraflex and has lots of colours. No longer popped seams and no longer need for zigzag stitches since I started using it. I also use it instead of serging the band to the top to reduce the bulk serging creates. I also test the top with the band basted if the band is cut on the bias from a non-stretch fabric. I also like to use foldover elastic as a finish for the neck.

[@davidmarsh959]

they all look terrific just like a profesional would do but I class you as a professional because your finishes are all perfect as you are best wishes Debbie .....I love your channel and I am trying to do my pwn patterns but cannot I will keep trying xxxxx

[@stephaniebenjamin8108]

Any videos on this same thing for fabric that are not stretchy. Love your work

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Yep, you just have to watch this video till the very end - the link (end screen) is right at the end of the video for a detailed 4 technique neckline tutorial for non-stretch fabrics

[@lafrileuse4459]

You can buy a bias foot for coverstitch machines that sews your binding on in one simple step. It looks wonderful and it's very fast and easy. I love mine!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Good to know!

[@NeMiYa_]

Thanks mam

[@annodgren3988]

I really enjoy your videos and would like to thank you for sharing them! Question: When using the Eloflex Stretchable Thread, do you use it in the bobbin as well?

[@ChloeLouiseTheRonnieRepublic]

Thank you for this video. I will try the fold over on a scoop neck tee shirt. Do you have a vid on the decorative finish on the child's tee shirt. It is very attractive. Thank you.

[@leeway3739]

It is 100% everyone's preference, but usually in the garment industry the join seam on the neckband is attached at the shoulder seam. It is the least noticeable spot on the garment when worn. On a raglan sleeve like in your example it would be placed at the back sleeve seam.

[@e.c.5851]

Thank you for all your videos. I am new to stretchy fabrics. The neck area of my garment becomes wavy when I top stitch with my machine. Any tips other than the eloflex thread?

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

You might be either 1) stretching your fabric as you sew, which results in waves 2) the presser foot oressure might be too much for an even feed of your project so it stretches it out, you can adjust that 3) give your neckline a good press (if your fabric allows it) and see if the waves go away, usually they do, ( if the original neckline is not too wavy to begin with)

[@jsd2457]

It really does take practice for the neckline to lay flat. Yours is hugging your neck. I want mine to do that.

[@Joani161]

I notice you pin horizontally ( do too) and others do ir vertically, What are the pros and cons for doing that.

[@ashleymcmahon3953]

Does the eloflex go into the bobbin as well?

[@jacquipayne7346]

That hoodie is gorgeous!! Do you have a pattern for it? Awesome tutorial 🙌🎉

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Jacqui, hellot here! It is a sweater modification from a knit bodice block series on my channel, hood pattern from my video tutorial, sleeve pattern from a sleeve block tutorial on my channel, make it wider to have a slight gathered effect at the cuff. Cuff tutorial on the channel :)

[@gerriebell2128]

All of the fabric of those shirts is wonderful! What is it and where did you buy it?

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Gerrie, hello there! Great question, let's see - all of them are knitts: cotton, cotton/lycra, rayon/lycra, bamboo/lycra and etc. Some are from Eco-Bee (my good friend Agata sent it to me from Ireland as a gift), most are from Fabric Mart and maybe one is from Joann's. Here is where I mostly get my fabric from - kzbin.info/www/bejne/eISoo3Zmj9-Igc0

[@vanashreechetty6097]

Hi.. gosh i appreciate your tutorial so much.. thank you very much.. please advise how i can convert a v-neck mesh dress into a shrug.. i wish to use it over another sleeveless dress.. thanking you kindly

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Hello there, I have a few shrug tutorials on the channel - just go and take a look and it will give you plenty of ideas :)

[@vanashreechetty6097]

@@ThoughtfulCreativity will do thanks

[@MariaSantos-dz9lh]

Alissa thank you for your videos I've been watching you since you were in Canada. Can you tell me where you get your eloflex thread, the brand and also you buy clear correct? I'm going to try your methods and I want to get the correct thread. Thank you kindly. Your videos are great.

[@angellashibrova1592]

👍🥰

[@janicespringstube1678]

Do you have a video on attaching a hood to a garment? Thank you

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

I do :) multiple videos, one of them is linked in the description of this video.

[@kchart47]

Hi Alisa! Where do you get your beautiful fabrics? Another great video…Thanks!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Hello there :) I have about handful of trusted places, here's the video where you can see all of them - kzbin.info/www/bejne/eISoo3Zmj9-Igc0

[@user-dg9xn3ol6d]

So do I put Eloflex thread in the bobbin too??

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Yes :) just like a regular thread.

[@leannerickard9646]

This video was very helpful to me. When you use the Eloflex thread, do you also use it in the bobbin? If so, how do you wind it on the bobbin?

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Leanne, that's awesome. This thread goes on top and in the bobbin, I personally wind it the same way as a regular thread :)

[@leannerickard9646]

@@ThoughtfulCreativity I'll have to give it a try! Thanks!

[@user-og8of2rv3j]

do you use same thread (Eloflex) in bobbin? If not what do you recommend for bobbin

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Yes, in both, upper and bobbin, just like a regular thread.

[@RobynCoburn]

Do you put the stretchy thread in both the top and bobbin? Does the bobbin fill up in the regular way, or is there a way to adjust the tension?

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Robyn, Please read previous questions/comments about the same topic and my reply :)

[@drejoicepr]

Nice tutorial …. Do you use the elastic thread only in the bobbin?

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Hello there, Deanna:) Both - upper and bobbin.

[@drejoicepr]

@@ThoughtfulCreativity Thanks a bunch for getting back to me so quick!!! Yestesday, I made two shirt with knit fabric for my grandaughter who is 5 using the Eloflex thread per your recommedantaion and the result was "FANTASTIC"... Now I have another question for you, one of the knit fabrics was a little challenging because it tended to roll up; but on this one after I finished the hem it keept rolling up, I steamed it, but still....keept rolling up. Do you have any recommendation that should I consider next time? The hem was tiny, abount 3/8". I don't know if this matter or not. MANY MANY THANKS for your tips and your easy way to sew.... ¡¡¡¡Dios te bendiga!!!!! (God Bless you). May best wishes for you and your family from a Puerto Rican grandma who live in USA 😀

[@vminifie837]

The bias tape that was used on the back neckline, is it of woven or knit fabric?

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

it is mentioned in the video :)

[@theresaanndiaz3179]

WAWAK sells twill tape in 1/4 inch width. They are one of my favorite places to buy sewing supplies. Their prices and quality is good. Their shipping is reasonable.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Oh thank you!!! Although I am past the 1/4 twill tape (I really like bias tape much better, just personal preference) but I will take a look - I have so many people mention them for thread and other supplies, that I simply must take a look :) you are a star!

[@user-hc2pk1xz8i]

Excellent video, very clear instructions. However, I tried the fold over method and my neckband stands up away from the body. it looks OK, kind of cute, but what did I do wrong? Band too long or too short?

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Hmm... let's see. Most probably your band is too short. I cut mine just a tad shorter than the actual length of the neckline and never had any issues, also keep the seam allowances on a smaller side. I hope this helps! :)

[@karenrozanski9231]

I am working on a crinkle knot tie front blouse. But for life of me I cant figure out how to reinforce the neckline under the tie. Do you have any advice since I cannot use a regular stabilizer because of the crinkles. Thanks so much.

[@MrSalinas35]

❤

[@dellmktr4152]

Do you have video on attaching mnit waistband? Tq

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Yep, it is on my channel of you can use KZbin search for it and add my channel name so that it would show :)

[@joanneferguson9297]

Can you use single fold bias tape?

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Try it and see how it works for you

[@Carol-Bell]

I want to know how to draft these necklines. I’m struggling with how to draw a neckline like on the tank top or the T shirt you put a self-facing on. A round neckline that is a little bit lower than the T shirt one

[@debbiemanning3987]

Do you put Eloflex on the bobbin as well.. Probably a stupid question but leave it to me 😅

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Not at all :) it goes into both, upper and bobbin, juts like regular thread :)

[@daxxydog5777]

Maybe narrow hem tape might work instead of twill tape?

[@jean2852]

What type of fabric is the band on the fold under top?

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Lightweight knit. You can also pause the video where I show the tag for that fabric :)

[@jean2852]

@@ThoughtfulCreativity thank you

[@nivchek]

Hi Alisa. I live in Russia, and I find that it’s not possible to purchase the Eloflex stretchable thread here, but only more classic elastic threads. However, in my search, I did find “textured overlock thread” which says it provides some amount of elasticity. Do you think this will work for the same purposes? Благодарю!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

привет! Short answer is - I don't know, as I have never worked with the thread you mentioned. But, just like I said in this video - use your regular all purpose thread and switch to a longer stitch length, I have done that before on necklines that aren't too tight and did not have any popped stitches.

[@alex_666_.]

Hello again lovely is there an email where I could send some photos to as I’m not sure what the issue is with one of my T-shirts I’m making? Thank youuu! X