How to Choose the Right Fabric for Your Project

Choosing the right fabric is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in any sewing project. The wrong fabric can turn a great pattern into a frustrating experience, while the right one can make sewing easier and the final result look professional and long-lasting.

If you’ve ever stood in front of rolls of fabric thinking “I love this… but will it actually work?” — this guide is for you.

1) Start With the Purpose of Your Project

Before looking at colours or prints, ask yourself one simple question:

What am I making, and how will it be used?

Different projects require different fabric characteristics:

• Everyday clothing needs comfort, breathability, and durability
• Special occasion garments need drape and elegance
• Home décor & upholstery need strength and structure
• Craft & quilting projects need stability and ease of cutting

Knowing the function of the item immediately narrows your fabric choices.

2) Understand Fabric Weight

Fabric weight affects how your project hangs, moves, and feels.

• Lightweight fabrics
  Best for blouses, summer dresses, linings, scarves
  Examples: voile, lawn, chiffon
• Medium-weight fabrics
  Ideal for everyday dressmaking
  Examples: cotton poplin, linen, chambray, twill
• Heavyweight fabrics
  Used for coats, upholstery, bags, and cushions
  Examples: denim, canvas, upholstery fabrics

Tip: Match fabric weight to your pattern recommendation whenever possible—especially if you’re a beginner.

3) Pay Attention to Fabric Drape

Drape describes how a fabric falls and moves.

• Soft drape → flowy dresses, skirts, blouses
• Structured drape → tailored garments, pleats, boxy styles

An easy test: gently hold the fabric and let it fall. Does it flow smoothly, or hold its shape?

Patterns designed for fluid movement won’t work well with stiff fabrics—and vice versa.

4) Check the Fabric Composition

Fabric fibre content affects comfort, care, and sewing difficulty.

• Cotton – breathable, beginner-friendly, versatile
• Linen – natural, breathable, great for summer (creases easily)
• Viscose/Rayon – soft drape, beautiful movement
• Polyester – durable, wrinkle-resistant, easy care
• Blends – often combine the best qualities of each fibre

If you want something easy to sew and maintain, natural fibres or cotton blends are a safe starting point.

5) Consider Stretch (or No Stretch)

Some projects require stretch—others absolutely don’t.

• Woven fabrics (no stretch): dresses, shirts, trousers, quilting
• Stretch fabrics (with elastane or knit): leggings, fitted tops, activewear

Always check your pattern. If it says “stretch fabric required”, a non-stretch fabric won’t work properly.

6) Think About Care & Maintenance

Ask yourself:

• Will this need frequent washing?
• Does it need to be machine washable?
• Is dry cleaning realistic for this project?

For everyday wear, washable fabrics are usually the most practical. For special pieces, you might choose something more delicate.

7) Colour, Pattern & Print Scale

Once the technical side is right, then choose what you love.

• Large prints work best on simple designs
• Small prints suit detailed patterns
• Solid colours highlight construction and fit

If you’re new to sewing, solid or subtle prints can make learning feel easier.

8) When in Doubt, Order a Sample

If you’re unsure, ordering a sample helps you:

• Feel the texture
• Check the thickness
• See the colour in natural light

This small step can save time, money, and frustration.

Final Tip: Let the Fabric Guide the Project

Sometimes the best projects start the other way around—you fall in love with a fabric first, then choose a pattern that suits it.

Trust your hands as much as your eyes. If it feels right, drapes well, and suits the purpose—you’re on the right track.

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Need Help Choosing?

If you’re still unsure which fabric is right for your project, our team is always happy to help—whether you’re sewing your very first piece or planning something special.

Creativity begins with the right fabric.

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