Regardless of what your project is, you should know how to select the appropriate fabric for it. If you want to show off your appearance, then it would be a great help to make the right decision when choosing fabrics for your garments. But unfortunately, it is hard to decide which fabric to choose. Whether it is for winter, summer, or special occasion, the first thing to do is to choose the right fabric. In case you choose the wrong fabric, then you’ll only get disappointed at the same time, you’ll also be wasting your time and money.
When it comes to choosing the appropriate fabric for your garments, there are a lot of important things to consider. This includes the color, weather condition, texture, fabric pattern, texture, the goal for wearing the garment, among others. For example, if you want to make a garment that is suitable for summer, then you should look for breathable fabric. The following tips can help you in making the right choice so you can create that perfect dress.
Decide On Your Project
If you haven’t decided what your project will be, then you can get some inspiration from the internet, particularly on Pinterest. From there you can learn how to make a simple design. Another alternative is to look for tutorials. You can also look for items in your favorite shop.
Conduct Research
Before you even think of going to the fabric shop, it is recommended that you should do some research about the project that you’re going to do. A good idea would be to go window shopping and observe what is available in the stores and check the fabrics that they use. Touching and feeling the garment allows you to understand the important role of the fabric. At the same time, it gives you the chance to discover trending fabrics to make your project more contemporary.
Check The Width
Typically, fabrics has two various widths – 45 inches and 60 inches. Based on the width of the fabric, you can compute how much you need for your project.
Inspect The Drape
When buying fabrics, try to unroll them a bit so you’ll know their drape. This is an important step since it allows you to see how your project will look. For instance, linens tend to be heavier and will likely stick out once they’re plated. On the other hand, silk will likely hang softly. Take note that the drape of the fabric is vital when selecting a fabric that is more suitable for your project.
Examine The Stretch
To check the stretch, you can simply pull the fabric. Almost all fabrics include an element of stretch. It is recommended that you should avoid fabrics that stretch too much since they could naturally wear and fall, however, it will also depend on the type of project that you are making. Be sure that you know how to sew stretch before buying jersey or lycra fabrics.
Check The Color
Most likely the lighting can affect the color of the fabric. So, be sure to put the fabric on natural light before making a purchase. Also, if you are making a garment for yourself, then place the fabric against your skin so you’ll know how it looks. In case the color of the fabric is too close to your skin, then it won’t likely shine if you want to make a garment out of it.
Visualize Your Project
Try to imagine how the project will look like if you use a certain fabric on it. You should consider the drape and color. Do you think the garment that you’ll be making will look great in heavy linen or silk? Another important consideration is your figure. If you are concerned about your figure, then you should choose heavier fabrics rather than light silks.
Purchasing Your Fabric
When purchasing your fabric, always ensure that you have bought enough for your project. If you’re still unsure of what you’ll be making, then you can buy two to three meters of fabric. Obviously, this will also depend on how much your budget is. This can give you more flexibility when doing your project.
Know The Properties and Composition of Fabrics
To choose the right fabric, it is crucial to understand the composition and properties of fabric. For example, wool brings warmth, satin looks luxurious while cotton is breathable. There is just something unique about each fabric.
However, it is also important to know that just because a certain fabric looks nice, it does not necessarily mean that it is the right option for your project. That is why it is essential to know the properties of fabrics, including their durability, drape, and stretch. This can help you in selecting the appropriate material that will not only look amazing but also works well for your project. It is also crucial to consider how their composition can impact the garment.
Obviously, it is easy for you to fall in love with a certain fabric. However, before making a purchase, you should also consider if it fits your budget, whether it is wide enough and how much do you exactly need.
Fabrics That You’d Like to Work With
Most likely, the type of fabric that you’ll choose will depend on your project, how easy they are to work with, and what are the current fabrics that are trending. Additionally, there are also some fabrics that can give you the most luxurious feel regardless of what you want to make out of them. The following are some excellent fabrics that you can work with:
Heavy Cotton
If you want to achieve more shape, then heavy cotton can help you. Additionally, they are also very easy to sew. Keep in mind that heavy cotton is particularly stiff, so be sure to consider this when choosing one for your project. Otherwise, it would look awkward.
Light Cotton
Most people choose light cotton since they are very easy to work with. They are ideas for making dresses or tops since they have a delicate fall. Avoid choosing light cotton that is extremely stiff.
Linen
Linen is probably the top favorite among the people out there. This is because regardless of the design that you want to make, linen can provide you with a great weight and fall, making it feel luxurious and expensive. There are various weights of linen that you can choose from, however, if you prefer a nice fall, then you should choose the heavier linen. For a rough look, you can simply expose the edges.
Silk
Lastly, silk can provide you with a lovely outcome. But take note that they can be challenging to sew, especially if you’ve just started sewing. However, it is undeniable that silk can give you a wonderful look and feel, and it’s perfect to use for any simple item. Hence, you should try experimenting with silk.
Spandex Warehouse is the best place to shop for fabrics. We offer a wide range of fabrics from swimsuit fabric to polyester fabric and many more. For more information, just call us at 213.629.7416 or fax us at 213.629.7433. You may also email us at spandexwarehouse@sbcglobal.net or spandexwarehouse.com.