Shopping for fabric can feel like one of the most exciting parts of starting a sewing project… and also one of the most overwhelming. 😬
You walk into a fabric store, spot a one you love, and immediately start imagining what you’ll make with it. But then the questions start creeping in. Will this fabric work for my project? Is it too thick? Too thin? Too stretchy? Am I about to spend money on the wrong thing?
Which all might lead to you not even starting at all! 🙈 And we don’t want that, do we?!?
With so many different types available, it’s no wonder beginners often feel confused about how to choose the right fabric for a sewing project.
The good news is that choosing fabric doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Once you know what to look for, you’ll be able to quickly narrow down your options and shop with much more confidence. 🤩
In this beginner’s guide, I’ll show you five simple things to look out for when you’re shopping for fabric. When you’re standing in a fabric store feeling every bolt in sight, these tips will help you choose the right fabric for your next project.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning that I get a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you.
Are All Fabric Types the Same?
Short answer: no!
Different fabric types can look surprisingly similar at first glance, but they often behave very differently once you start sewing. Two fabrics might have the same colour, print, and even a similar weight, yet produce completely different results in a finished project.
That’s why experienced sewists don’t just choose fabric based on how it looks. They pay attention to how the fabric behaves.
The next time that fabulous fabric seems to be calling your name 😂, the five tips below will help you easily evaluate any fabric you come across, whether it’s cotton, linen, denim, canvas, jersey, or something else entirely.
5 Things to Check When Shopping to Find the Right Fabric
1. Does the Fabric Stretch?
The first thing to check is whether the fabric stretches.
Some projects are designed to use stretch fabrics, while others need fabrics that hold their shape. Using the wrong type can dramatically change the fit and function of your finished project.
Stretch fabrics are commonly used for:
- T-Shirts
- Leggings
- Activewear
- Pyjamas
Non-stretch fabrics are commonly used for:
- Tote bags
- Cushion covers
- Aprons
- Quilts
Quick test:
Gently pull the fabric between your hands. Does it stretch easily, or does it stay firm?
If your pattern recommends stretch fabric, you’ll want something that moves with your body. (You don’t want those pyjamas made out of stiff and scratchy canvas, do you?!?)
If your project needs structure (such as a cushion cover), a non-stretch fabric is usually the better choice.
2. How Heavy Is the Fabric?
Fabric weight plays a huge role in how a project looks, feels, and functions.
Some fabrics are lightweight and airy. Others are thick and sturdy. Neither is inherently better. It just depends on what you’re making.
Lightweight fabrics are often used for:
- Summer tops
- Blouses
- Scarves
Medium-weight fabrics are often used for:
- Dresses
- Shirts
- Children’s clothing
Heavyweight fabrics are often used for:
- Bags
- Jackets
- Home décor projects
Ask yourself:
Would I want this fabric hanging softly against my body, or standing up on its own?
A lightweight fabric can make a beautiful blouse but a disappointing tote bag. Likewise, upholstery fabric might make a durable bag but a very uncomfortable skirt.
3. How Does the Fabric Drape?
Drape refers to the way a fabric hangs and moves.
Some fabrics flow and ripple beautifully. Others are much more structured and hold their shape.
Understanding drape can help you predict how your finished project will look before you’ve even sat down at your sewing machine.
Fabrics with lots of drape often work well for:
- Dresses
- Skirts
- Blouses
Fabrics with less drape often work well for:
- Tote bags
- Storage baskets
- Tea towels
Top tips:
Hold the fabric up by one corner and let it hang naturally.
Does it flow softly? Does it fold easily? Or does it feel stiff and structured?
The answer can tell you a lot about whether the fabric is going to be the right choice for your project.
4. What Does the Fabric Feel Like?
One of the easiest ways to identify different types of fabric is simply by touching them. (A fact which can making shopping for fabrics online extra tricky!)
While learning to identify fabric types by touch takes time, even beginners can learn a lot from a quick feel test.
Pay attention to whether the fabric feels:
- Soft
- Crisp
- Smooth
- Textured
- Slippery
- Stiff
- Fleecy
These clues can help you determine whether the fabric matches the project you have in mind.
For example, a silky, slippery fabric may create a beautiful finished garment but can be more challenging to sew. A crisp cotton fabric may be easier to handle and more beginner-friendly.
What you can do:
Think about other clothes that you already own and mentally compare the feel of those.
When shopping for fabric, don’t just look at it—pick it up and see how it feels in your hands.
5. How Easy Is the Fabric to Work With?
This is one of the most overlooked factors for beginners.
I’m talking about how easy the fabric is to cut, pin and sew!
Some fabrics lie flat nicely, stay in place, and are easy to control. Others shift around, stretch out of shape, or slide off the table while you’re trying to cut or sew accurately. 😣
Easier-to-work-with fabrics include:
• Quilting cotton
• Denim
• Canvas
• Cotton poplin
More challenging fabrics include:
• Satin
• Chiffon
• Rayon
• Very stretchy knits
Ask yourself:
- Does this fabric lie flat and stay put?
- Or does it move, shift, or slip around?
If you’re new to sewing, choosing a fabric that’s easy to work with can make the whole project feel more manageable and much more enjoyable. It gives you more control while you’re learning the basics of cutting and sewing accurately.
Quick Fabric Shopping Checklist
Before buying fabric, ask yourself these five questions:
✓ Is it the right amount of stretch (or not) for this sewing pattern?
✓ Is the weight suitable for this project?
✓ Does it drape the way I want?
✓ Does it feel right for the finished item?
✓ Is it stable enough for my sewing skill level?
If the answer to all five questions is yes, you’ve probably found a fabric that’s a great match for your next project. 🥳
More Helpful Sewing Resources
✂️ Sewing Beginner Dictionary: Fabric Terms
✂️ All About Sewing Pattern Terms
✂️ Sewing Machine Terms Easily Explained
✂️ Silly Sewing Lingo to Make You Laugh
✂️ Top Questions Sewing Beginners Always Google
✂️ Terrific Tote Bag to Sew (with easy cotton 😉)
Choosing the right fabric doesn’t have to be complicated or max out your credit card 😅.
Once you start paying attention to stretch, weight, drape, texture, and stability, fabric shopping becomes much less overwhelming and a lot more enjoyable.
The next time you’re standing in a fabric store wondering which of the hundreds of fabrics is the right one for your sewing project, use these five simple checks as your guide.
With a little practice, you’ll start recognising suitable fabrics much more quickly—and you’ll make better fabric choices with confidence.
