Viscose Jersey Fabric

Viscose jersey is one of the most wearable knits you can sew. It has the soft, fluid drape viscose is known for, with enough stretch to move comfortably and skim rather than cling. That combination makes it a staple for everyday clothes: the fabric behind a good t-shirt, an easy dress or a pull-on skirt.

Most of the range is viscose blended with a small amount of elastane, which gives the knit its stretch and, importantly, its recovery, so a garment springs back into shape rather than bagging. You'll also find firmer structured knits like Ponte Roma and double-knits for styles that need more body, and softer, more fluid jerseys for draped tops and dresses. Lighter weights drape beautifully but can be a touch sheer, so it's worth checking on a sample. Several lines are OEKO-TEX certified, and there are ECOVERO options for a more sustainable choice.

What to make with viscose jersey

Viscose jersey suits everyday clothes above all. T-shirts and tops are the natural home, along with dresses and skirts that need soft movement, loungewear and nightwear, and comfortable everyday separates. The fluid drape flatters gathered, wrapped and draped styles, while the firmer double-knits hold a more structured dress or a simple pull-on trouser.

Sewing with jersey

A few small things make jersey easy. Use a ballpoint or jersey needle, which slips between the knit loops rather than piercing them and skipping stitches. Sew seams with a narrow zig-zag or stretch stitch so they stretch with the fabric, and a walking foot stops the layers wavering. A twin needle gives a neat, stretchy hem. Wash cool and reshape while damp, as viscose is weaker when wet. Always follow the care guidance on the product page, as this varies.