Every good wardrobe has a mix of fibers, fabrics, and textures; wool, rib knits, silky charmeuse, denim (just to name a few). There’s one that you may not have thought to add though: chainmail. Chainmail comes in a variety of materials from plastic to actual metal, and each type can be sewn differently. Today, we’re going to take a look at knit chainmail and how to work with it!
Purchase Materials Used Below:
- 2-3 yards Metallic Navy Blue Faux Knit Chainmail
- 1 278 Midnight 100m Gutermann Sew-All Thread
- MDF030 – The Iris Ensemble Sewing Pattern (free download below!)
Alternative Recommended Fabrics:
All seam allowances are 1/2″ unless otherwise stated. See chart below for sizing specifications. Note, this specific pattern is available up to a size 30.
How to Cut & Sew Knit Chainmail
- Cut the fabric using an old pair of scissors that won’t mind the possibility of dulling. This will prevent any damage to your beloved sewing scissors!
- Thread your machine with polyester thread that blends extremely well with the color of your fabric.
- Pin, lots of pins! When you pin, make sure to weave the pin in and out two or three times, so the pins won’t slip out of the mesh while you are sewing. (You can also opt for Wonder Clips instead!)
Types of Seams for Sewing Chainmail
Note: I used contrasting thread so you can see the stitching more easily. Also, test on a scrap before sewing the garment. Each sewing machine is different and will need to be adjusted for tension accordingly.
1. Regular Seam
(This can be done with a regular straight stitch like below, or a zig-zag or overcast stitch for more stretch.)
2. Mock French Seam
(If you choose to do this one, go a size up or add seam allowance to catch all the chain.)
3. Regular Seam + Topstitching
(Only recommended along seams where stretch is not needed..)
