Favorite Fabrics for the Bedrock Tee

There is just something about a good t-shirt, right? It is ubiquitous for a reason, and the Bedrock Tee sewing pattern is my favorite one I have ever made. I tried a bunch of fabrics so I could report back with confidence about which knits are best for this tee. And I am pleased to now tell you: all of them! Okay, okay, that is a slight exaggeration, but truly most knits will work well for this t-shirt. It depends on the fit you prefer, the ease you like, and your personal style. 

Knits for the Bedrock Tee 

So that is pretty broad! Let’s narrow it down a little bit. The Bedrock Tee is intended for fabric with 40% stretch and quick recovery. For a flowy fit, choose a knit fabric with rayon or bamboo content in addition to spandex. For a more structured fit, look for a mid-weight knit fabric with at least 40% stretch and good recovery such as a cotton jersey.

That means a fairly standard-weight cotton jersey, such as Birch organic jersey, or Robert Kauffman Laguna, is the perfect starting place for the Bedrock Tee. From there, you can dive into lighter or heavier fabrics. For example, I knew I wanted to use this sewing pattern to make a sweatshirt, but since French terry is both thicker and heavier than the knits I used for my first versions, I went up a size. And I couldn’t be more pleased with the results. 

My Favorite Bedrock Tees

Meg’s checkerboard tank and her tees are made with knits and matching ribbing from ISeeFabrics. Sudi-Laura used cotton jersey from our local shop, Mulberry Silks. The my short-sleeved view is made with Hudson Tencel knit from EWE Fine Fibers. My long-sleeved view is made with a cotton jersey from Blackbird fabrics. I love all of these fabrics. They’re easy to wear and care for, and are good even for those new to sewing with knits. Our friends at EWE Fine Fibers have put together a great selection of knits for the Bedrock T-shirt sewing pattern. Get your pattern printed there too! And if you are new to knits, check out our Learn to Sew with Knits course. 

I am dreaming of making a cream-colored version with contrast ribbing for the neckline and armbands. Ribbing is a great choice for the stretchy bits, but it can be a little trickier to sew, so go slowly and try a few test stitches and some scraps to find what you like. I love a good stripe, but definitely take matching the pattern into account when cutting out. And also remember that no one will be looking at your underarms, so if they don’t match that is really okay. Yes, I did say that exact sentence to myself while sewing. And it is the truth. 

Express your personal style 

As you walk down the Bedrock Tee path, slowly replacing all of your tees with Bedrocks (I speak for myself, but welcome all who wish to join,) remember that all sewing is a process of learning, a trial and error of sorts where we not only improve our skills but also learn what we like and don’t like. Try that knit you’ve been eyeing in your local shop! Go for a print! Mix and match some scraps for the neckband! Give block printing or embroidering a try. 

The beauty of the Bedrock Tee is its simplicity and its comfort. It is tried and true, it always feels good to wear, and is fun to sew.