5 Tips for Picking the Right Fabric for Your Project
Fabric is one of the most versatile aspects of a sewing project. You can use it for drapery making, home decor, fashion design, and so much more. But, it's not just about the versatility — it's about finding the right fabric for your project. The right fabric can help you finish your project successfully and easily. It can also help you save money by choosing a less expensive fabric. So, what makes a good fabric? And how do you know if the one you have is the right one? Keep reading to discover some of the best tips for finding the right fabric for your project.
Know the Different Types of Fabric
Fabric is any woven material that is used to make clothing, decorative items, and more.
There are four main categories of fabric: Natural, synthetic, man-made fibers, and blends.
Natural fabrics are made of natural fibers and synthetic fabrics are made of natural substances. Depending on the fabric you choose, there are many different advantages and disadvantages.
For example, natural fabrics are usually more expensive than synthetic fabrics, but they are also eco-friendly and biodegradable. However, many of them are also vintage-inspired and offer cultural significance. A good way to know what’s best for your project is to know the different types of fabric.
Check the Fabrics Label
The most important thing you can do when selecting a fabric is to know the type of fabric it is. The best way to do this is to check the label on the fabric you’re planning on using. This label should include the type of fabric (natural vs. synthetic etc.) and the weight of the fabric. If you’re not sure what type of fabric it is, contact the store where you purchased the fabric. Any type of label on fabric that includes weight will be helpful when you’re making your selection. However, not all labels will be this helpful. The reason is that many labels are printed on the fabric and are very difficult to see. If you’re having trouble seeing the label, you can contact the store where you purchased the fabric.
Check the Width
Width is one of the most important factors to consider when picking the right fabric for your project. It’s not just about the width of the fabric. It’s also about the width of the seam you’re planning to use. Many times, the width of the seam you choose is dependent on the width of the fabric you have. However, you can also choose a narrower width than the fabric. For example, if you have a wide fabric measuring 60 inches wide, but you want to use a 45-degree seam, you can choose a 45-degree seam that is 50 inches wide. This way, you can use the fabric you have while still getting a narrow seam.
Measure and Compare
The width of your fabric is important to consider when making your selection. However, there are other factors you should also keep in mind. One of these factors is the ease of the seam. You want your seam to look neat and clean. And, this can only be achieved with a correct seam allowance and correct seam width. For example, you want to keep your seam allowance at 3/8 inch on each side of your fabric. And, you want your seam to be 1/2 inch wide. If you don’t take the correct measurements when picking the right fabric for your project, it can cause your project to come out looking messy.
Look at the Fabric Before You Buy
When picking the right fabric, it’s also a good idea to inspect the fabric before you buy it. This gives you an idea of the quality and appearance of the fabric. It also lets you know if it’s the right type of fabric for your project. Another helpful tip is to check the pattern envelope (PE) for the pattern you’re planning to use. It’s easy to do, and it gives you a good idea of the types of fabric the pattern has recommended.
Don’t Limit Yourself to the Store
When picking the right fabric, don’t limit yourself to buying fabric from the store. Instead, visit online fabric stores, consignment stores, and even thrift stores. You can find a wide variety of fabrics in each of these locations. And, you can often pick up fabrics for less than what you would normally pay for them at a store.
Take some time before you start sewing to think about what your project will be like. Will it be a lightweight fabric for summer or a heavier fabric for winter? Will it be casual or dressy? Now that you have an idea of the fabric requirements, you can easily find the right one for your project.
