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In this comprehensive guide to sewing with Chalk Cloth, you will learn 10 tips for sewing with chalk cloth fabric. In addition, you will also learn the benefits of using it for your different projects.
Look at our amazing Chalk Cloth it is so much fun to stitch with.
It works exactly like a traditional chalk board but it is a fabric. You can write on it, draw on it and the great thing is, it’s wipe clean, so that you can use it again and again.
Why in the world would you need a guide on felt fabric? Well, chances are, you’ve had your hands on felt before—remember the magic of Fuzzy Felt? Those were the days, right? Creating scenes with Fuzzy Felt was practically a childhood rite of passage.
Felt isn’t just any fabric; it’s the cool kid on the block, coming in a mishmash of shapes, sizes, and qualities. So, let’s break it down: how to pick the right felt for your project and dish out 11 game-changing sewing tips for felt fabrics.
Felt is that laid-back friend who doesn’t need to be woven or knitted to hang together. It’s made from fibers chilling out together, getting tangled when needled, or just lounging in some heat.
True felt is like a cosmopolitan at a party, made from anything—wool, fur, mohair, cotton, rayon/viscose, or other synthetic fibers. Making felt is like crafting a fine cocktail: pound those fibers, compress them, shrink them, then add a splash of moisture, a dash of temperature change, pressure, and finally, rough them up a bit. Talk about a process!
Depending on the felt, it can either be your go-to for crafty shenanigans or the MVP for sturdier projects.
Retail stores usually flaunt two types: acrylic (the life of the party for crafts, Christmas ornaments, appliqués) and wool felt (the durable one, perfect for soft toys that’ll see a lot of action, not to mention chic bags, hats, and sneaky garment details).
Felted fabrics like boiled wool and melton? They’re the posers of the felt world. True felt is all about those raw fibers, while felted fabrics are just playing dress-up after a shrink and full session.
Can’t find 100% wool felt? Make your own. Raid your closet for old wool blankets or jumpers, then give them a spa day in hot water and a tumble dryer. Check out this tutorial for the nitty-gritty and then brag about it on social media.
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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.
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