Today, let's talk about fabric selection. As the summer is fast approaching, we need to think about including a few new pieces into our style closets. Are you going on vacation? Challenge yourself and make at least 50% of your items for the trip.
We will talk about patterns next time. Fabric is the basic foundation for my sewing project. I must have fabric to inspire me to choose a pattern. At this point, I go on a fabric expedition to my main fabric haunts. I even surf the Internet and order swatches from online fabric houses.
Fabrics are made of fibers....natural and/or synthetic. I must physically handle fabric with my hands. Your eyes know what appeals, but your hands feel each fiber. Handling your fabric gives you the idea of it characteristic. Natural fibers --wool, cotton, linen, and silk (come from nature) . Synthetic fibers, such as nylon, polyester, and acrylic are products created in a chemical laboratory. The character of a fabric decides the appropriateness of the fabric for its use. For instance, wool is poor conductor of heat - retains warmth. Cotton diffuses heat and is great for summer garments.
Fabric fibers are spun into yarns and then converted to fabric, by weaving, knitting , or felting.
Fabric/Textile choices (click this line to see examples various fabrics and their uses)
