Needle

Thread

• Gütermann Mara 100 polyester (slight stretch matches the fabric)
• Gütermann Mara 120 for fine lightweight jersey

Quick Tips

• Never use a straight stitch on seams that will stretch. Threads pop the first time the garment is pulled over the head
• Cut edges curl toward the right side; use clips and don't fight the curl. It relaxes once the seam is stitched
• A twin-needle hem gives a flat, professional finish that mimics a coverstitch
• Stabilize shoulder seams with clear elastic or stay tape. They bear stress and shouldn't stretch

Detail

Cotton jersey is the foundational t-shirt fabric, a single knit with a smooth face and slightly textured back. Weights run 140 gsm (light drapey summer tees), 180 gsm (standard), 220+ gsm (heavier structured tees). The signature home-sewer challenge is the cut edge, which curls aggressively on lighter weights. Let it curl, work with it; don't try to press it flat. The other shift from woven is the stitch. A straight stitch on a stretch seam will break the first time it's loaded. Use a narrow zigzag (2.0 mm × 2.5 mm) or a lightning bolt stitch if the 4452 has one. For hems, a twin needle delivers parallel topstitching with a zigzag underneath, mimicking the flatlock or coverstitch on commercial tees.