SERAFLEX Stretch Sewing Thread – Does It Really Work? My Experience and Tips

Did you know that you can sew stretchy fabrics on a regular sewing machine using a straight stitch? And that there are special threads that stretch with the fabric?

Today I’d like to tell you about Mettler SERAFLEX stretch sewing threads, which I’ve tried myself and which will now also be available at our Šarlotes audumi fabric store.

How did I discover SERAFLEX threads?

I actually first came across these threads several years ago, when I bought them at the Zanzibah fabric store, which is unfortunately no longer in business.

I was curious to find out whether it really was possible to sew a stretchy seam on a regular sewing machine using a straight stitch.

Of course, I had to try it myself! :)

And you know what? The thread really does stretch!

It’s not quite like regular sewing thread. SERAFLEX is specially designed for stretch fabrics, and its biggest advantage is that it stretches with the fabric.

Now, at Šarlotes audumi, you’ll find the full Mettler SERAFLEX thread display with 72 different colours.

What exactly are SERAFLEX stretch threads?

SERAFLEX is a stretch sewing thread by Mettler, a brand owned by the German AMANN Group.

Unlike regular sewing threads, it’s made from a special PTT fibre that allows the thread to stretch by up to 65%.

This means the seam can also be more elastic and better adapt to the fabric’s movement.

For example, when sewing a fitted jersey dress, leggings or a T-shirt, it’s important that the seam doesn’t break when the fabric is stretched.

 

Can you sew jersey on a regular sewing machine?

Yes, you can!

In my opinion, this is one of the most interesting questions.

Many people think you absolutely need an overlocker to sew jersey. Of course, an overlocker is very convenient, but that doesn’t mean you can’t sew stretch fabrics without one.

By using SERAFLEX threads and adjusting your sewing machine correctly, you can create a stretchy seam with a regular straight stitch.

It’s important to remember, though, that the result depends on the specific fabric, sewing machine and thread tension.

What fabrics are SERAFLEX threads suitable for?

I especially recommend considering these threads for sewing:

• Cotton jersey

• Loopback jersey

• Viscose jersey

• Leggings

• Sportswear

• T-shirts and dresses

• Underwear

• Children’s clothing

• Other stretch fabrics

• 

For example, when sewing children’s clothes, we often want them to be not only comfortable but also able to withstand plenty of active movement. Stretchy seams are very useful in these cases.

How do you sew with SERAFLEX threads?

Here are a few important tips from the manufacturer.

1. Use the stretch thread for both the top and bobbin threads.

For maximum stretch, use SERAFLEX for both the needle thread and the bobbin thread.

2. Choose a straight stitch.

The manufacturer recommends using a straight stitch to make the most of SERAFLEX’s special stretch properties.

3. Reduce the thread tension.

It should be as loose as possible while still allowing the seam to form properly.

4. Don’t stretch the thread when winding the bobbin.

If the thread is stretched while winding, it can affect the stretch of the seam.

5. Always test it first!

I always recommend trying it out on a small piece of the same fabric before sewing. Every fabric is different, and sewing machines can behave differently too.

The manufacturer recommends using a size 70–80 sewing machine needle.

Frequently asked questions about stretch sewing threads

Do SERAFLEX threads really stretch?

Yes! The manufacturer states that SERAFLEX thread can stretch by up to 65%.

I’ve tried these threads myself too, and I can confirm that they really are stretchy.

Can you use SERAFLEX on a regular sewing machine?

Yes. They’re designed for use on domestic sewing machines. For especially good stretch results, use a correctly adjusted straight stitch.

Do SERAFLEX threads replace an overlocker?

Not exactly.

An overlocker finishes the fabric edge and creates a stretchy seam at the same time, while SERAFLEX lets you sew a more elastic straight stitch on a regular sewing machine.

This can be very useful if you don’t have an overlocker or need a straight seam for a particular sewing project.

Can you sew leggings with SERAFLEX?

Yes, these threads are suitable for stretch garments, including leggings. However, with very stretchy fabrics, you should always test the seam’s stretch before sewing.

Are SERAFLEX threads also suitable for regular cotton fabrics?

You can use them to sew non-stretch fabrics too, but their main advantage is creating stretchy seams. Regular all-purpose sewing threads are often perfectly adequate for ordinary cotton.

Are SERAFLEX threads suitable for children’s clothing?

Yes. They can be used to sew children’s clothing, and SERAFLEX threads are OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified.

How many metres are on one spool?

Each Mettler SERAFLEX spool contains 130 metres of thread.

Why did I decide to stock these threads at Šarlotes audumi?

I really enjoy discovering interesting sewing supplies that can genuinely make sewing easier.

And if I’ve tried something myself and found it useful, I want to share that discovery with others too.

That’s exactly how I feel about SERAFLEX.

That’s why I’m so happy that our shop will now carry the full Mettler SERAFLEX range of 72 colours.

You’ll be able to choose threads to match your fabric and try out the difference between regular and stretch sewing thread.

If you haven’t tried SERAFLEX yet, maybe now’s the time!

You can buy Mettler SERAFLEX stretch sewing threads at Šarlotes audumi:

Online: www.sarlotesaudumi.lv

In person: Jāņa Poruka iela 23, Cēsis.

Happy sewing!

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