So you have decided what type of sewing you want to do. Great! Now let’s turn to arguably the most important next choice – what type of fabric to use.
Choosing the right fabric is just as important as picking the perfect pattern or thread when sewing, quilting, or crafting. Fabric plays a key role in how a project looks, feels, and functions. But with so many fabric types available, how do you know which one to use?
There are two major categories, in my opinion, Natural or Synthetic Fabrics. Let’s take a look.
Natural Fabrics
Natural fabrics are fabrics that come from plant or animal fibers and are known for their breathability and comfort. They include Cotton, Linen, Silk, and Wool. Finding pure fabrics of these kinds can be kind of pricey, so you may have to do some research and figure out what you want to do first.
Synthetic Fabrics
Synthetic fabrics are man-made, usually from petroleum-based materials, and are often more durable and wrinkle-resistant than natural fabrics. These include fabrics such as polyester, nylon, spandex, and rayon. These tend to be cheaper, but also may not last as long as projects made from natural fabrics.
Blended Fabrics
Blended fabrics combine natural and synthetic fibers for the best of both worlds—comfort, durability, and ease of care. If you have ever looked at a clothing label that has 50% Cotton, 50% Polyester, that is a blended fabric. You may see blends of any types of fabrics, or many different types of fabrics.
Specialty Fabrics
Some fabrics are designed for specific uses, from outdoor gear to delicate projects, so I thought I would give them their own category. To be clear, they may fall into one or more of the above categories as well! These fabrics might include things like denim, fleece, or canvas. They tend to be a little more heavy-duty, so I’m not sure I would include them in “regular” sewing types. However, they absolutely exist and are made of fabric!
Whether you’re sewing clothes, quilting, or crafting, understanding fabric types will help you make the best choices for your project.
What’s your favorite fabric to work with? Let me know in the comments!