Fabrics

Fabrics have different properties and textures that make them suitable for some jobs but unsuitable for others. When creating a garments it is important to buy the correct fabric in order to get the desired effect and outcome. They are a lot of online fabric sites for if the fabric store you visit does not have the correct fabric type of pattern, though it is important to request samples before buying the fabrics so you can see its colour and if it has the right texture, weight and drape. Samples also allow you to see if the fabric is a good quality.

Taffeta

This fabric usually makes a noise and has a stiff texture. It is woven close together with the use of different colours making the fabric change colour under different lights. This fabric is commonly seen on formal clothing as well as on dresses and skirts. This fabric wrinkles easily and usually needs to be sew with either a sharp or ballpoint needle. Polyester or cotton thread can be used on this fabric. Finish the seams with overlocking, pinking or with a zig zag stitch is useful since it prevents fraying.

Satin

This fabric has a very smooth texture and it commonly has a high shine and sheen. A range of fibres can be woven to create this fabric the most common is: rayon, silk, polyester and acetate. This fabric has a good drape but it varies upon the fibres that have been used. It is important to use a small ballpoints or sharp needle when sewing satin because it is very delicate and damages easily. Be careful when using pins that are not sharp on this fabric because it will ruin the fabric creating lines across it. Holes made in it are also visible and the fabric frays a lot. This fabric is sometimes cut on the cross grain in order to make it stiffer. Satin is most commonly used on blouses and dresses. Polyester and cotton can be used on this fabric. Finish the seams with overlocking, pinking or with a zig zag stitch is useful since it prevents fraying.

Suede and Leather- Faux

This fabric resembles leather and suede in texture and it is more affordable. If making a garment for someone they may not want to wear real leather or suede so Faux is a good alternative. This fabric can be found in a wider range of colours then real leather or suede. It is also easier to sew and cut. The fabric can also be bought embossed with patterns. This fabric is not breathable and needs to be ironed on a low temperature, holes made in the fabric are also visible. This fabric is commonly made from polyurethane, polyester and polyvinylchloride and on the wrong side of the fabric cotton and polyester can be seen. This fabric has the same uses as the real version and can be used on items such as skirts, jackets, trousers, bags, shoes and jewellery. Sharp needles and polyester and cotton thread can be used on this fabric. Seam finishes do not need to be used on this fabric since it does not fray though the fabric can still be pinked.

Jacquard

This fabric is commonly patterned which is created when weaving. A range of colours are used when weaving. This fabric is commonly expensive since it is more difficult to make and it can be found in a range of weights. Damask Jacquard creates a pattern with a single colour, floral designs are the most common patterns seen. Brocade Jacquard can be found which can be seen in metallic colours and creates the appearance of embroidered fabric. This fabric is usually heavy weight. Jacquard fabric is delicate and frays a lot. Sharp needles are used and both cotton and polyester can be used as thread. Finish the seams with overlocking, pinking or with a zig zag stitch is useful since it prevents fraying. Flat fell seams can also be used.

Resources

BAUGH, G. (2011) The Fashion Designer's Textile Directory Barron's Educational Series. New York