We sell a vast range of Dressmaking Fabrics available in many different colours, designs and compositions. Without fail, our stretch fabrics always prove to be incredibly popular whatever the time of year. Stretch fabrics are especially comfortable to wear and are popular for their ease of movement and figure hugging qualities. Our wide variety of stretch fabrics are popular for a range of dressmaking projects from formal wear to casual jersey dresses. Many people have an unreasonable fear of sewing with stretch fabrics and can often shy away from trying out a new design idea using such fabrics. We believe that armed with information about these fabrics and feeling confident about the correct choice of accompanying haberdashery, that any dressmakers of any ability can create stunning items of clothing using the full range of stretch dressmaking fabrics.
Stretch fabrics are usually split into two categories : two way stretch and four way stretch. Two-way stretch fabrics are fabrics which stretch in one direction whereas four-way stretch are fabrics which stretch in both directions, crosswise and lengthwise. This type of fabric offers unrivalled comfort to the wearer and are perfect for many dressmaking projects.
[caption id="attachment_5722" align="alignleft" width="150"] Bi stretch dressmaking fabrics at Calico Laine come in a number of shades.[/caption]
Bi-Stretch - a popular, versatile fabric, bi-stretch is ideal for creating clothing such as skirts, trousers, jackets and suits as it requires little ironing and provides full ease of movement. Bi-stretch fabric is favoured for its lovely body and drape as well as being hard wearing and resistant to creasing.
Lycra Jersey - this is a beautiful material which is very stretchy providing movement and comfort. Due to its smart, elegant finish it is perfect for evening wear. Our Lycra Jersey is made from 80% polyester and 20% lycra in a range of eye catching colours.
Lycra - a synthetic material known for its exceptional elasticity, Lycra has a 4-way stretch and due to its flexibility and breathable quality. Lycra is the ideal fabric for sports wear, dance and ice skating costumes. Lycra can be stretched to several times its original size but will retain its shape. Lycra is a popular fabric for dressmaking and is easy to use as it will not fray when cut.
Cotton Jersey - this 2-way stretch fabric is t-shirt weight and is popular because of its soft handle and drape. This fabric is 100% cotton and has a completely matte finish.
Viscose Jersey - this is also a 4-way stretch fabric but differs from Lycra in that it has a completely matte finish. This fabric is excellent value for money and due to its wonderfully soft feel and how it drapes so beautifully. Viscose Jersey is the ideal fabric for creating maxi dresses, skirts and tops.
[caption id="attachment_5723" align="alignright" width="150"] Double knit jersey is a perfect weight for dressmaking with.[/caption]
Double Knit Jersey - this heavier weight jersey fabric is perfect for the colder winter temperatures. It hugs the body and drapes very well when worn. Jersey is named after the island where it was created.
Stretch Dress Linings - when dressmaking with stretch fabrics it is important to select an appropriate dress lining. You do not want to choose a structured dress lining as your item will lose the ease of movement afforded to it by your stretch fabric. Our stretch dress lining is specifically designed for use underneath stretch fabrics such as Lycra and Stretch Jersey. Our stretch dress linings are popular for their anti-static qualities and will prevent your dress or skirt from riding up when you move around.
Stretch Machine Needles - when sewing with stretch fabrics you will want to choose a needle designed for fabrics which are little more difficult to work with. Our Millward Stretch Machine Needles are designed so the bobbin hook gets closer to the needle eye, preventing skipped stitches on fine, stretchy fabrics.
I hope you have enjoyed todays entry and have found the confidence to explore new options of Dressmaking Fabrics.
We always love to see your creations and invite you to share your pictures on our Facebook and Twitter pages,
Until next time,
Calico Laine