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I wrote this article a few months ago and was originally published in the November issue of Sewing World Magazine but I’m sharing it here for those that missed the publication at the time. This was the second in a series of four fabric guides I wrote for the magazine, which I thoroughly enjoyed. A big thank you to Emma at Mummy & Millie’s Boutique for helping me out with the fleecey makes! (more…)
I still remember the first time I worked with corduroy – it was equal parts thrilling and daunting. The velvety texture seemed alive, slipping through my fingers and challenging every sewing skill I thought I had mastered. But when I finally finished my first corduroy project – a pinafore dress for my daughter – the sense of accomplishment was unmatched.
Corduroy isn’t just a fabric; it’s a statement. From its royal origins to its role in modern fashion, this textured classic is back and bolder than ever. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or a sewing hobbyist, corduroy’s versatility and charm make it a must-have in your fabric collection.
Whether you’re sewing your first project or revisiting this classic fabric with new eyes, corduroy has a way of transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary. Let’s explore its history, decode its unique characteristics, and uncover the secrets to mastering this iconic textile. Ready to stitch a little history into your next project?
How’s that for a royal endorsement?!
This moniker harks back to an era when corduroy wasn’t just fabric; it was a symbol of service and loyalty, woven into the very uniforms of French royal servants during the opulent 17th and 18th centuries.
Today, the notion that corduroy once dressed the servants of French royals adds a layer of historical intrigue to our modern appreciation of the fabric. It’s a testament to corduroy’s versatility and enduring popularity.
A wale count refers to the number of ribs per inch. High wale counts mean finer, denser ribs (think sleek and sophisticated), while lower counts are all about that bold, textured look (hello, statement piece!). Choosing the right wale is like choosing the right accessory for an outfit—it can make or break your look.
Wale refers to the vertical ribs that define corduroy’s texture, and it’s a crucial detail for sewists. Here’s a quick guide:
Choose your wale count based on the project’s purpose and the visual impact you want.
Selecting the right wale is like choosing the perfect accessory for an outfit—it can make or break your look. For beginners, start with mid-wale fabrics (8-10) for balanced texture and versatility. Advanced sewists can experiment with contrasting wale counts within a single design to create visual depth and interest.
If you’re new to sewing with corduroy, don’t worry—you’re not alone. This fabric, with its unique ridges and luxurious texture, can seem a little daunting at first. But with a few simple tips and starter-friendly projects, you’ll be well on your way to creating something beautiful.
Remember, every sewing journey starts with a single stitch. Corduroy may seem a little tricky, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. With these beginner projects, you’ll master this timeless fabric in no time.
Corduroy’s nap is its defining feature, but it requires care. Follow these tips:
Mastering the nap ensures your finished garment looks professional and polished.
When sewing with corduroy, aligning the nap is crucial. It affects the colour and sheen of your garment. Light hits those ridges differently depending on their direction, giving your piece that lush, velvety look.
Love this dive into corduroy’s storied past? Subscribe for more textile tales, and don’t forget to ❤️ and share your thoughts below. Feel free to spill your ‘corduroy confessions’ in the comments – I’d really appreciate it!
