Sewing stretchy fabric
 

I want to alter a dress made with a knitted stretchy fabric. I have a bernina 440nq and wondered what stitch I need to use. I've never sewn stretchy fabric before.

If your machine has a variety of stitches with pictures, there is are usually two you can use depending if the fabric is a fine knit or a double jersey. If fine knit use a zigzag with a narrow sitting on the width, and a slightly larger on the length, if a sturdier knit mist machines have a stitch that looks like 3 straight stitches width wise, that is the one to use. I don't have a Bernina so can't tell you the stitch number on your machine.

Use a ballpoint needle for knit fabrics

Yes, ballpoint needle and I would check your owner's manual for which stitch based on thickness/sturdiness of that particular knit fabric. And don't pull on your fabric as you're feeding it through the machine!

I would check your manual because mine has an explanation for which stitches work best for knitted fabric. A ball point needle is a must since it will not break the weave of the knit fabric.

I always check my manual. Speaking of which, I need to get some ball point needles.

Be sure and use a ball pointed needle in your machine. I've made tons of stretchy clothes, in the past.

i always use a zig zag, and as stated a ball point needle. good lcuk

Many Bernina's have a "stretch stitch" It looks like a off set straight stitch. Check your manual it should tell you what the stitch number is. If you can't find it call your dealer & ask.

Thank you everyone will go and buy ball point needle.