Master the Art of Mattress Stitch Seaming

Master the Art of Mattress Stitch Seaming

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction 1.1 What is mattress stitch?
2. Vertical Mattress Stitch 2.1 Supplies needed 2.2 Step-by-step instructions
3. Horizontal Mattress Stitch 3.1 Supplies needed 3.2 Step-by-step instructions
4. Perpendicular Mattress Stitch 4.1 Supplies needed 4.2 Understanding gauge ratio 4.3 Step-by-step instructions
5. Conclusion
6. FAQ

Introduction

Knitting is a beloved craft that allows individuals to create beautiful and functional pieces of clothing and accessories. However, one challenge that knitters often face is seamlessly joining knitted pieces together. This is where mattress stitch comes in handy. In this article, we will explore the different methods of mattress stitch and provide step-by-step instructions on how to achieve a sturdy and nearly-invisible seam.

Vertical Mattress Stitch

Vertical mattress stitch is used to join two pieces of knitting side to side, such as side seams and sleeve seams of a garment. To perform this technique, you will need a few supplies, including a tapestry needle, knitted fabric to be seamed, and sewing yarn. Here's how to do it:

1. Thread the tapestry needle with your sewing yarn.
2. Bring the needle up from the wrong side to the right side between the first and second stitch of the first row, just above the cast-on edge.
3. On the other side, take the needle down to the wrong side between the first and second stitch of the first row, just above the cast-on edge. Bring it up to the right side in the very next row, catching the "bar" between the stitches.
4. Move back to the first side and insert the needle from the right side to the wrong side in the same space where the yarn is coming up, then bring it to the right side two rows above this point. This time, you will catch two bars with your needle.
5. Repeat this process, catching two bars at a time, until you have sewn a couple of inches worth of rows together.
6. Pull firmly on the sewing needle to draw the two sides together and stretch the seam to settle the stitches.
7. Continue moving from one side to the other, catching two bars with each stitch, stopping every couple of inches to pull the seam closed and stretch it.
8. By the end, you will have an invisible vertical seam that seamlessly joins your knitted pieces.

Pros:

• Creates a strong and nearly-invisible seam.
• Suitable for side seams and sleeve seams of garments.

Cons:

• Requires attention to detail to catch the "bars" accurately.

Horizontal Mattress Stitch

Horizontal mattress stitch is used to join the tops and bottoms of knitted fabric, as in the shoulder seam of a garment. Here's how to perform this technique:

1. Locate the very first stitch in the very first row under the edge of the knitted fabric.
2. Bring your needle up through the center of that first stitch.
3. Cross to the other piece and take your needle down to the wrong side through the center of the very first stitch of the row, then back up through the center of the next stitch in the row.
4. Cross back to the first piece, take your needle down to the wrong side in the same spot where you came up in step 2, then bring it back up through the center of the next stitch in the row. The tapestry needle is always moving towards the end of the seam, parallel to the edges being joined.
5. Cross back to the second piece, take your needle down to the wrong side in the same spot where the yarn comes out, then back up through the center of the next stitch in the row.
6. Continue crossing from one side to the other, leaving the stitches fairly loose to see the path of the yarn. Every few inches, stop to pull firmly on the seaming yarn to tighten the stitches.
7. The seaming yarn will disappear into your piece, leaving you with a smooth and nearly invisible seam.

Pros:

• Creates a seamless join between the tops and bottoms of knitted fabric.
• Suitable for shoulder seams of garments.

Cons:

• Requires attention to detail to maintain consistent tension throughout the seam.

Perpendicular Mattress Stitch

Perpendicular mattress stitch is used to join a selvedge (edge) to a top or bottom edge of a piece of knitted fabric, such as when attaching sleeves to the body of a garment. Here's how to perform this technique:

1. Determine the ratio between stitch width and row height of your gauge to create a smooth seam.
2. Bring the needle up from the wrong side to the right side between the first and second stitch of the first row on the vertical side.
3. Cross to the other piece, take your needle down to the wrong side, then back up through the center of the next stitch in the row.
4. Move back to the first side and insert the needle from the right side to the wrong side in the same space where the yarn is coming up, then bring it to the right side one row above this point.
5. Cross back to the second piece, take your needle down to the wrong side in the same spot where the yarn comes out, then back up through the center of the next stitch in the row.
6. Continue joining each stitch to either 1 row or 2 rows as dictated by the calculation you did, alternating between one stitch to one row and one stitch to two rows.
7. Pull firmly on the seaming yarn every few inches to tighten the stitches. Repeat these steps until your seam is finished.

Pros:

• Allows for smooth joining of a selvedge to a top or bottom edge of a knitted fabric.
• Suitable for attaching sleeves to the body of a garment.

Cons:

• Requires calculation to determine the correct ratio between stitch width and row height.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of mattress stitch opens up a world of possibilities in garment construction. With this technique, you can create seamless and nearly invisible seams in your knitting projects. Whether it's joining side seams, shoulder seams, or attaching sleeves, the mattress stitch will ensure a professional finish to your knitted garments.

Remember to practice and experiment with different types of seams to find what works best for your projects. Happy stitching!

Highlights

• Mattress stitch is a go-to method for creating sturdy and nearly invisible seams in knitting.
• Three methods of mattress stitch: vertical, horizontal, and perpendicular.
• Vertical mattress stitch joins pieces side to side, horizontal mattress stitch joins tops and bottoms, and perpendicular mattress stitch joins selvedges to top or bottom edges.
• Each method requires a tapestry needle, knitted fabric, and sewing yarn.
• Step-by-step instructions provided for each method.
• Pros and cons of each method discussed.
• Mastering mattress stitch allows for professional finishes in garment construction.

FAQ

Q: What is the benefit of using mattress stitch in knitting? A: Mattress stitch creates strong and nearly invisible seams, giving a professional finish to knitted garments.

Q: Can mattress stitch be used for different types of seams? A: Yes, mattress stitch can be used for side seams, shoulder seams, and attaching sleeves, among other applications.

Q: Is mattress stitch suitable for all stitch patterns? A: Mattress stitch works well for most stitch patterns, but some intricate or textured patterns may require alternative seaming techniques.

Q: How can I ensure my mattress stitch is neat and even? A: Pay attention to catching the "bars" accurately and maintain consistent tension throughout the seam.

Q: Can mattress stitch be used in crochet projects? A: No, mattress stitch is specific to joining knitted pieces together. Crochet projects require different seaming techniques.