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Cotton

Cotton is the classic sewing fabric: firmly woven, stable and uncomplicated to handle. It hardly distorts while sewing, frays very little and forgives beginner mistakes. Here you will find plain and printed qualities as well as firmer types such as canvas.

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Woven fabric is made from crossing threads and therefore barely stretches. For beginners that is a real advantage: the fabric stays where you put it while cutting and sewing. An ordinary universal needle and a simple straight stitch are all you need.

The range runs from plain cotton through printed designs, dots and batik to licensed prints. Canvas is considerably firmer and carries bags, rucksacks and cushions. Jacquard shows woven rather than printed patterns, while double gauze consists of two finely woven layers, which makes it airy and soft – the typical choice for scarves, summer dresses and baby items. Panels are pre-printed sections with a finished motif.

Cotton should be washed before cutting because it shrinks in the first wash. If you intend to wash the finished garment at a high temperature later, pre-wash the fabric at that same temperature straight away.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to pre-wash cotton?

Yes, it is strongly recommended. Cotton shrinks in the first wash, and if that only happens after sewing, the finished piece suddenly fits tighter. Wash the fabric the way you intend to care for the finished item.

Which needle and stitch suit cotton?

A universal needle in a medium size and an ordinary straight stitch are enough. For firm qualities such as canvas use a stronger needle and lengthen the stitch slightly so the seam does not pucker.

Is cotton suitable for clothing?

Very much so, as long as the pattern does not need stretch. Blouses, shirts, skirts, summer dresses and trousers with a waistband all work well. For close fitting shirts or leggings you need a stretchy knit fabric instead.

What is the difference between canvas and ordinary cotton?

Canvas is woven more densely and heavily and keeps its shape even without interfacing. That is why it is used for bags, baskets and upholstery, while lighter cotton suits clothing, bed linen and decoration.

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