Learn about Ponte : How to Choose, Sew & Shop Online

I get many questions about fabric in general but lately, one that comes up again and again is about Ponte (or “Ponte de Roma”). As more of us shop for fabric online, it can feel tricky to figure out what we’re getting. Gone are the days when you could pop into Joann and feel every bolt. Now brick-and-mortar fabric stores are fewer and farther between and we are ordering more fabrics online.

That’s where a solid understanding of fabric types comes in handy. Today, I’m sharing everything you need to know about Ponte: what it is, why it’s amazing for both beginners and experienced sewists, how to choose the right blend for your project, and where to shop online. I’ll also talk a bit about how Ponte works beautifully for the Love Notions Bridget Trousers, a pattern I collaborated on that’s perfect for workwear and beyond.  Read on or watch here:

What Is Ponte Fabric?

Ponte (pronounced pon-tee) is a double-knit fabric, meaning it’s made with two layers of knitting that interlock. Unlike jersey, which has a right and wrong side and tends to curl at the edges, Ponte looks the same on both sides and doesn’t curl and that makes it super easy to handle.

Because it’s more stable than most knits, Ponte is a dream for beginners. You get the stretch and comfort of a knit but with structure and shape. It’s perfect for garments that need a little body, like trousers, sheath dresses, pencil skirts, and fitted jackets.

Common Ponte Blends

Not all Pontes are created equal! The fiber content can make a huge difference in drape, structure, and longevity.

• Polyester Ponte: Common but not my favorite.  I find that it can pill easily and feel less breathable.
• Rayon/Nylon/Spandex Ponte: My top choice! It’s soft, resilient, and holds up beautifully over time.
• Rayon/Poly/Spandex Ponte: A good option if the rayon content is higher than the polyester as this blend this gives a little more structure. Think about this for knit blazers.

If you can find a listing that includes the percentages, even better. Typically, the fibers are listed from highest to lowest content (like ingredients on a label), so “Rayon, Nylon, Spandex” means rayon is the majority fiber.

What to Sew with Ponte

Ponte’s versatility makes it one of my most-used fabrics. Depending on weight and drape, here are some great project ideas:

• Structured Dresses: Sheath, fit-and-flare, or wrap styles work beautifully.
• Knit Trousers: Like the new Bridget Trousers. Ponte provides a perfect for a polished but comfy look.
• Skirts: A pencil skirt in Ponte is wardrobe magic.
• Tops & Blazers: Structured knits that need body but still stretch comfortably.

Because it’s so stable, you can even use Ponte as a substitute in some woven patterns—just skip the zipper and rely on the fabric’s stretch for easy wear.

Shopping for Ponte Online

Since most of us shop online these days, it helps to know what to look for in a listing:

1. Stretch Percentage:
   The Bridget Trousers need at least 25% stretch across the width. Most Pontes will meet this, but it’s always good to double check.
2. Fabric Content:
   Look for rayon/nylon/spandex blends for the best balance of structure and comfort.
3. Fabric Weight:
   Ponte weights are often listed in GSM (grams per square meter) or ounces. For structured trousers like the Bridget, aim for 320–400 GSM (around 9–11 oz). Depending on the rayon content, you can choose this weight or anything under 300 GSM (7.5 oz) for dresses and tops. It really depends on the pattern you are making and how you want it to drape.

4. Suggested Uses:
If the fabric listing mentions “trousers” or “bottom weight,” that’s a great sign it’ll work for structured pieces.

How Structure Affects Drape

Here’s a quick comparison:

• Mood Fabrics “Ponte di Roma” (around 390 GSM): Structured and ideal for trousers.
• Fabric Mart Rayon/Nylon Ponte: A bit more drapey—fantastic for dresses, not pants.

Even if two Pontes have the same weight, the fiber blend can change the feel dramatically. Rayon-heavy Pontes drape more, while nylon adds firmness.

Tips for Sewing with Ponte

• Stabilize key seams: Especially the crotch seam in trousers or shoulder seams in dresses—rayon-rich Pontes can stretch out with wear. A strip of cotton twill tape works perfectly.
• Use a walking foot: It prevents the layers from shifting as you sew.
• Press carefully: Use a warm (not hot) iron and a press cloth to avoid shine.
• Treat like a woven when needed: Many Ponte garments can be sewn with a straight stitch and finished with a serger.

My Favorite Places to Buy Ponte

Here are a few shops that carry beautiful, consistent Ponte fabrics:

• Mood Fabrics* (USA) – Their “Ponte di Roma” comes in tons of colors and weights.
• Surge Fabrics  (USA) – Great selection, including Ponte twill and plaids.
• The Sewing Studio  (USA) – I used the lovely rust red Ponte for my Bridget Trousers.
• Style Maker Fabrics (USA) – Offers multiple weights and samples upon request.
• Blackbird Fabrics  & Core Fabrics (Canada) – Excellent Pontes if you’re shopping north of the border.
• Minerva* (UK) – A fantastic source for high-quality Pontes in Europe.

If you’re new to sewing knits, don’t forget to grab the free ebook on sewing with knits available on our website—it’s full of practical tips that apply perfectly to Ponte!

Ponte really is one of those fabrics that makes sewing knits enjoyable—no curling, no slippage, and a beautifully polished finish. Whether you’re sewing the Bridget Trousers, a structured dress, or your next capsule wardrobe essential, a well-chosen Ponte will make your project shine.

_{*Affiliate links included—thank you for supporting my work! No extra cost to you, but I may earn a commission. Offers may change.}