What is cotton jersey?
Cotton jersey, also known as cotton lycra or cotton spandex, is a knitted fabric made from cotton blended with a small amount of stretch fiber – typically 95% cotton and 5% elastane. The fabric has excellent stretch and recovery, making it soft, comfortable, and flexible to wear.
Properties
- Soft and stretchy – Feels comfortable against the skin and adapts to body movement.
- Breathable – The cotton makes the fabric cool and moisture-absorbing.
- Shape-retaining – Thanks to the elastane, the fabric holds its shape better than 100% cotton jersey.
Common uses
Cotton jersey is often used for:
- T-shirts, tops, and tunics
- Dresses and skirts
- Children’s clothes and underwear
- Beanies and leggings
It’s a versatile and easy-to-sew fabric suitable for both beginners and experienced sewists.