Creating beautiful quilts means investing your time and energy in something that lasts a lifetime. So, your fabric choice should be very specific and tailored to your requirements.
It’s difficult because different types of fabrics, colors and patterns are available in the market. So, if you are searching for “quilt material for sale”, you should first know the most commonly used types of quilting fabric. You should then compare them all and make an informed and artistic choice.
Quilter’s cotton
It’s a traditional choice for quilters because it’s durable, easy to use, and comes in various colors and prints. 100% cotton is referred to as “quilter’s cotton”. When you use this fabric for quilting, it takes the shape well and stretches properly for easy piecing.
Available in various solid colors, prints and patterns, quilter’s is a mid-weight woven cotton fabric, perfect for quilting.
Batik fabric
The batik fabric is usually made from cotton and has many unique and vibrant designs. It’s made using a specialized resist dyeing process. In this method, a molten wax is applied to the fabric before dying. Then, the wax is removed by boiling the fabric in the water.
It’s better than regular quilter cotton because of its higher thread count. A higher thread count gives more warp and weft threads per square inch.
Flannel
Quilts should be warm and inviting. You can add these features by using flannel for quilting. The fabric is perfect for cooler climates or cuddly baby quilts. It has a soft and napped finish on one or both sides.
Flannel is made from cotton, wool, or synthetic fibers and has quite a loose weave that brings softness.
Pre-cut fabric
This fabric is a boon for quilters, especially if they are beginners. Using pre-cut fabrics is easy and time-saving. You can pack pre-cut fabrics in various coordinated collections. Many people think that pre-cut materials limit customization, but fortunately the options increase. You can add different patterns without causing too much waste.
Common pre-cut quilt patterns for sale are jelly rolls, layer cakes, fat quarters, and fat eighths.
Linen
Made from flax plant fibers, linen is a luxurious choice for quilting. This is the best alternative for cotton if you want natural fibers. The only problem is the loose weave of linen. It’s prone to fraying and unraveling after cutting.
Combining linen and cotton fabric creates quilts with interesting textures and effects.
Is there a need to wash quilting fabric before use?
Now, you know the common quilting materials. But before using them, you should know if they require pre-washing. In many cases, it isn’t required.
Your fabric might require pre-washing to remove any excessive ‘sizing’ or ‘coating’ on it. It’s a protective layer applied to yarn before weaving. The coating increases the quality of the fabric. Other than this, the fabric should be washed if starch is applied to it. Starch makes the fabric highly stiff.
In conclusion
To enjoy quilting, invest in the right and quality fabric. Also, pre-wash the fabric for good results. At Platinum So n Sews, we run a quilt fabric sale clearance, where you can buy superior quality fabric at affordable rates.