Dressmaking and knitting have seen a revival in the last decade or so. Patterns are available for all levels of experience and many of them are very basic. Firm favourites are simple knitting or crochet patterns that can easily be made in an afternoon. For more information on a Knitting Kit, go to a site such as https://www.woolcouturecompany.com/collections/knitting-kits
One of the most exciting parts of a dressmaking project is selecting the fabrics. To start browsing all the available options, you can feel like a kid in a sweet shop. Sometimes it can feel a bit overwhelming.
Here is a guide to the various dressmaking fabric that are available:
- Knits are a wide range of fabrics that come in varying weights, from lightweight to medium. This fabric is ideal for items that require a certain amount of stretch. Check the back of your pattern for how much stretch you need. You can then choose a woven fabric or knitted fabric or choose from a wide selection of wool for knitting or crochet projects.
- Cotton Voile is a lightweight fabric with a semi sheer look. This fabric type is perfect for draping, and is used to make dresses or blouses.
- Silk is another lightweight option that has excellent drape. Silk can be used as either a lining or as the main fabric. Due to its slick surface, it can be harder to work with.
- Denim is a heavy-weight fabric that has a low stretch but excellent durability. This fabric is used to make jackets and trousers or accessories like bags, for example.
- Linen is a medium-weight fabric that wrinkles easily because of its low elasticity. It is a very good fabric at transferring heat, and has therefore become popular for cooling summer clothing.
- Rayon Challis is similar to the semi-sheer cotton voile. It is a light, smooth fabric. You can choose from a range of fabrics, from light to heavy. The fabric has a similar glossy look to silk.
- Wool is available in over 200 types, and its weight depends on which breed of sheep it comes from. This fabric is very durable and versatile. It is a fabric that is used as a warmer in winter.
- Chambray is another smooth fabric with a light weight. It’s not as good as rayon challis or cotton voile for draping.
