How to create a clean neckline finish on a jersey garment
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How to create a clean neckline finish on a jersey garment
A neckband is the cleanest and most durable way to finish a jersey neckline. With the right measurements and a few simple steps, you get a finish that sits flat, stretches comfortably, and looks professional — on both a serger and a regular sewing machine.
Materials & settings needed
- Jersey fabric for the neckband
- Matching thread
- Iron
- Sewing machine or serger
Step-by-step instructions
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Cut the neckband
Cut a rectangle of jersey fabric that is about 20% shorter than the neckline measurement — for example, for a 60 cm neckline, cut a band of approximately 48 cm. Cut the band 4–6 cm wide depending on your desired finished width. The shorter length creates the slight tension that keeps the neckband flat against the body.
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Sew the short ends
Fold the band in half widthwise with right sides together and sew the short edges together to form a closed loop. Press the seam open or to one side.
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Fold the band in half lengthwise
Fold the loop in half lengthwise with wrong sides together to create a double-layered band. Press lightly if needed to keep the fold in place. The double layer adds body and prevents the band from curling once attached.
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Attach the band to the neckline
Pin the band to the neckline with right sides together, dividing both into quarters and matching the quarter points. Stretch the band slightly to match the neckline as you pin, then sew all the way around. On a regular machine use a narrow zigzag stitch (width 1–1.5, length 3 mm) to keep the seam flexible.
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Press and topstitch
Press the seam allowance down toward the garment, then topstitch to secure it flat. Use a straight stitch if the neckline doesn’t need to stretch when worn, or a zigzag stitch if elasticity is required.
Pro tip
If your neckline waves or ripples after sewing, try increasing the band reduction slightly — a bit more than 20% — so it has a little more tension when stretched around the neckline. You can also steam-press the finished neckline firmly while gently stretching it flat, which often resolves minor rippling without any resewing.
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