Preventing T-Shirt Fabric From Curling After Cutting

T-shirt fabric is usually made from jersey, a single-knit fabric, and it's common for knit fabrics to curl at the edges when cut. This is because the fabric is stretchy, and those same qualities that make it comfortable to wear also cause its edges to curl. However, there are ways to prevent this from happening. One way is to use a zigzag stitch to hem the fabric, or you can try spraying it with starch and ironing it.

Characteristics of T-Shirt Fabric Curling

How to cut T-shirt fabric

T-shirt fabric will curl when you cut it, but there are several ways to prevent this. You can cut the fabric a little longer than you want it to be and hem it with a zigzag stitch, or use iron-on fusible bonding on the inside all the way around before cutting. You can also cut the shirt inside out, which will make it roll to the inside, which is less noticeable.

• Use sharp sewing or fabric scissors to cut clothing. Dull scissors may cause uneven cuts.
• Turn the shirt inside out and lay it on a flat surface.
• Use a pen or washable chalk to mark the fabric before cutting.
• Cut the sleeves to make a tank top or muscle tee.
• Cut out the neckline seam for a more distressed and slouchy look.
• Cut slits into the sides or back of the shirt to make it looser.
• Cut the bottom off to make a crop top.
• Cut the collar to create a wider neckline.

Why does T-shirt fabric curl when you cut it?

T-shirt fabric is usually made from jersey, a single-knit fabric, and it is well-known that knit fabrics curl when cut. This is due to the qualities that make knit fabrics comfortable to wear, such as their stretchiness.

Cutting a T-shirt can result in the fabric curling towards the right side, or sometimes towards the wrong side. If you want to avoid this, you can use a knit fabric that doesn't curl, such as interlock knits or double knits. However, if you want to use a jersey knit, there are a few things you can do to try and prevent the edges from curling.

Firstly, you can cut the T-shirt a little longer than you want it to be and hem it with a zigzag stitch. Alternatively, you can try spraying the fabric with starch and ironing it. You can also try using Terial Magic, a stiffening product, on the fabric. This will temporarily darken light fabrics, but the residue can be removed with a single wash.

If you don't want to use any products on the fabric, you can try cutting the T-shirt inside out, which will make the fabric curl towards the inside, resulting in a less noticeable effect.

Preventing T-shirt fabric from curling

T-shirt fabric, especially at the hem, is prone to curling when cut, and this is due to the fabric being knitted. There are several methods to prevent this from happening.

Firstly, you can cut the T-shirt a little longer than you want it to be and hem it with a zigzag stitch to keep it from curling. This can be done by hand, but it will be hemmed.

Another method is to use fusible bonding on the inside of the shirt all the way around before cutting. This method also requires ironing.

A third option is to cut the shirt inside out, so that it rolls to the inside, which is less noticeable.

Additionally, you can try spraying the cut edge with starch and ironing it. Starch can be found in the laundry detergent aisle.

Finally, if you want to avoid hemming, you can put your shirt in a dryer and take it out when it is half-dry. Then, lay it flat along with the flattened-out hem. After it cools, it will stay flat. Alternatively, you can use a hair straightener to achieve the same effect.

Types of T-shirt fabric that curl

T-shirt fabric tends to curl when cut because it is a knitted fabric. The curling can be prevented by hemming the cut edge, or by using a product such as starch.

Cotton, the most widely used natural fabric in the world, is commonly used for t-shirts. Cotton is praised for its softness, breathability, and ability to absorb moisture. However, it tends to wear down faster than synthetic fabrics and is prone to shrinking. Cotton is also a good fabric for printing on.

Cotton t-shirts can be made from several types of cotton, including:

• Ringspun cotton: This is a bit softer, smoother, and more durable than regular cotton due to a tightly woven fabric and the spinning process.
• Combed and ringspun cotton: This type of cotton is even softer than ringspun cotton because it has been combed to remove impurities, giving a smoother surface for printing.
• Organic cotton: Grown without synthetic fertilizers, this type of cotton is more ecological and durable, as well as being soft and popular.
• Slub cotton: A light and airy fabric that makes high-quality t-shirts that don't cling to the body. It has a great feel and doesn't require much ironing.
• Pima cotton: One of the finest varieties of cotton in the world, known for its smoothness, softness, and durability. It is resistant to tearing, wrinkling, and fading.

Other types of fabric used for t-shirts include:

• Polyester: A synthetic fabric, usually made from plastic, which is known for its durability. It is quick-drying and resistant to stains, wrinkles, and shrinking. However, it is not very breathable and can be irritating to the skin.
• Cotton/polyester blends: These combine the benefits of cotton and polyester, being soft, comfortable, quick-drying, wrinkle-resistant, and durable. However, they can be irritating to the skin and are less biodegradable.
• Linen: A natural fabric made from flax plant fibers, known for being lightweight and breathable. It is an excellent choice for warm weather and gives a unique aesthetic. However, it requires regular ironing and is prone to shrinking.
• Flannel: A soft, warm fabric often made from cotton, wool, or synthetic fibers. It is ideal for cooler weather and offers a comfortable, cozy feel.
• Corduroy: A distinctive and durable fabric known for its unique ribbed texture, created by twisted fibers woven in parallel. It is ideal for casual and retro-inspired outfits.
• Twill: A versatile and durable fabric with a diagonal weave pattern, known for its strength and resistance to wear. It has a stylish finish and is commonly used for various types of clothing, including t-shirts.

Solutions to T-shirt fabric curling

T-shirt fabric, especially if it is knitted, tends to curl up when cut. Here are some solutions to prevent this:

Hemming

Hemming the fabric is an effective way to keep it neat and intact. Fold the fabric over by approximately 2 cm on each side and press it with a warm iron. Then, stitch around the edge using a brightly coloured, strong thread and a simple running stitch. This will prevent the fabric from curling and fraying.

Starch and Ironing

Spraying the fabric with starch and ironing it can help to prevent curling. Starch can be found in the laundry detergent aisle.

Fusible Bonding

Applying fusible bonding to the inside of the fabric before cutting can help to prevent curling. This creates a reinforced edge that stops further curling.

Cutting Inside Out

Cutting the shirt inside out can help the fabric roll to the inside, which is less noticeable.

Zigzag Stitch

Using a zigzag stitch, either by hand or with a sewing machine, can help to prevent fraying by grouping threads together. This makes it less likely that the strands will slip out.

Pinking Shears

Using pinking shears to cut the fabric creates a jagged-tooth pattern that can prevent the edges from fraying and curling. Adhesive can be applied to the cut edge for additional stability.

Frequently asked questions