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How to Quilt>Fabric for Quilting Fabric for QuiltingWhat kind of fabrics are best suited for quilting? The answer to that question depends on your intended use of the quilt. Quilts can be made of any fabric. How long they last depends on the quality of fabrics you choose for the project. Poorly made fabric does not make good quilts. You will know poorly made fabric when you see it. It does not have a sturdy texture, weight, etc. If patterns in the fabric or the texture or weight do not seem consistent, it is not good fabric. Traditionally, we think of quilts as being made from cotton and cotton prints. There are many cotton and cotton blends available today in a wide range of colors and patterns. Because of the variety, cotton is still a popular choice of fabric for quilting. Quilting is not limited, however, to cotton fabrics. Polyester fabrics are also increasingly popular and the variety being offered these days is increasing their use in quilting. We often think of knits in quilting in the form of t-shirt quilts. The truth is, jersey knit makes a nice, soft backing for quilt projects. Due to its stretch, it is a little more difficult to sew with than traditional cotton. It can be done, however, and can make beautiful, super soft quilts. Wool is a warm fabric that also makes beautiful quilt tops and backs.When layered with batting and backing, a wool quilt would offer ultimate warmth for cold days and nights. Necktie quilts are popular. Since many men’s neckties are made of silk, this incorporates silk into quilting. Again a little more difficult to sew with due to its stretch ability, silk fabrics can be incorporated into any quilt block design and make beautiful quilt projects. Another novelty quilt project made popular these days is wedding dress quilting. Since many wedding dresses are made of satin, this shows that satin can also be used in quilting. With wedding dress quilting, the dress is cut to incorporate into quilt blocks. Some wedding dress quilters appliqué the entire dress to the quilt top. Either way proves that satin can also be used in quilting. Knowing that basically any fabric can be used for quilting, it’s important to note that the use for the quilt should also help determine the fabrics you choose. For instance, a stadium blanket made of satin will not hold up as well as one made from a heavier fabric like wool or cotton. A dainty coverlet for a bed in a seldom used guest room cannot be achieved from wool. Consider the use of the quilt before selecting your fabrics. A baby quilt in sweet, pastel satins may be gorgeous and make a special family heirloom. But if you are looking to make a quilt that will be used for a special baby on a daily basis, stay away from satin. With all the things babies do, it’s best to use a fabric that can be easily washed and dried. That’s why cotton is such a popular choice. We are also seeing novelty fabrics being used in quilting. Minky fabrics and low pile “furs” can create an interesting appeal. Again, keep usage of your quilt project in mind. Sometimes it is best to incorporate these types of novelty fabrics sparingly into your quilt. Some quilters like to use these types of fabrics for backing because the fabric alone creates a lot of interest. The actual quilting, then, can be kept very simple – as simple as using the tying technique. And if you have a bunch of different fabrics you want to include in the same quilt - from silk to upholstery fabric, a crazy quilt would be a great choice! When selecting fabric for your quilt projects, it is okay to look for inexpensive fabric – just not “cheap” ones. The difference is that an inexpensive fabric simply costs less, maybe because of a sale or close-out deal. A “cheap” fabric may have the gingham print you want, but it is poorly woven, or made of an unknown blend. Be careful when buying fabric from the $1 to $2 table. While you can often find some good end of bolt deals, they often include the cheaply made fabric that will cheapen your quilting project.
Other articles about fabric for quilts: Buying Cotton Fabric - Part 1
© 2009-, Penny Halgren. This article courtesy of http://www.How-To-Quilt.com. You may freely reprint this article on your website or in your newsletter provided this courtesy notice and the author name and URL remain intact.
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