A User’s Guide to Different Kinds of Fabric | Bernina Sew N Quilt Studio

Whether you are just getting started or have been sewing for years, choosing the right fabric for your projects can sometimes feel a little bit overwhelming. There are so many different types, feels and textures to choose from!

And when you’re sewing, the type of fabric you use can make all the difference. That’s why we’d like to share some details on a few common fabric sources.

Let’s break it down:

Cotton

This one you’re probably familiar with! It’s the most common type of fabric used in sewing, and for that matter, clothing. Because it comes in a variety of weights and thickness, it can be used in many different types of projects.

Cotton Voile

This is not the same as plain cotton. This type of fabric is lighter and more sheer, which makes it useful when draping material.

Corduroy

You probably had a pair of corduroy pants as a child! This fabric is thick and ribbed, making it a common choice for sturdy clothing.

Denim

The material in jeans, denim is sturdy and heavy. It does not stretch or drape effectively because of its weight.

Knit

This type of material is the opposite of denim—it comes in a full range of weights and it’s stretchy. That makes it the perfect and comfortable fit for many clothing projects.

Polyester

This is a man-made material that is commonly used in clothing, though it is not used as often as it was decades ago.

Silk

Silk material is slippery and delicate, often making it a challenge to work with. But it is commonly used to line other types of material when creating clothing or accessories.

Beyond these materials, you’ll also often find fabric labeled as a “blend,” which is just what it sounds like—a blend of multiple types of fiber.

Do you have everything you need for your latest sewing project? Visit our website or stop by the Bernina Sew N Quilt Studio in Chattanooga to shop for all your sewing essentials!