Everything You Need to Know About Fabric: Plus, a Fun Project!

Fabric is a fundamental element in any home, offering incredible versatility for DIY projects. In collaboration with
our partners at Fabric.com, we’ve embarked on an in-depth exploration
of fabric – from understanding different fibers and the latest trends in patterns and colors to discovering the
simplest, most rewarding projects you can undertake.

For those eager to dive into a hands-on project, we’ve devised a remarkably straightforward yet visually striking DIY
wall art idea. This project allows you to showcase your favorite fabric and incorporate elegant wooden slats for a
sophisticated touch.

Our Top Fabric Choices for Home
Décor

Whether you’re planning a simple throw pillow cover or considering new drapes for your living room, these are some of
our favorite fabrics, prints, and patterns to elevate your home décor:

Indigo-Inspired Fabrics

Indigo, traditionally perceived as a color between blue and purple, evokes a distinct ambiance. Named after the
Indigofera Tinctoria plant, the source of its dye, indigo offers a rich and versatile palette for home décor.

Pretty Plums & Blushes

Plum and blush tones are experiencing a significant resurgence in popularity. These soft pink shades are ideal for
clothing, accessories, and, of course, beautiful bridesmaid dresses. The versatility of pink fabric extends to a
multitude of clothing design possibilities.

Botanical Fabrics

The bohemian (boho-chic) style is currently a major trend, and for good reason. Boho clothing, rugs, home décor, and
jewelry are beautiful, easy to find, and often simple to create. While a boho wedding dress might not be for
everyone, these botanical fabrics could inspire a truly unique and adventurous design.

Floral Fabrics

Floral fabrics evoke a sense of calm, relaxation, and joy. These floral prints are perfect for wall hangings or even
wallpaper for a truly creative touch. Alternatively, a high-resolution photo of one of these fabrics could serve as a
beautiful floral background for your phone or computer.

Black & White Fabrics

A black and white color palette is timeless, simple, and always makes a statement. It’s difficult to go wrong with
this classic combination. Black and white curtains are an excellent way to incorporate bold patterns into your home
décor, or consider using the pattern as a rug or a throw over a couch.

Fabric 101: A Beginner’s Guide

Fibers are the fundamental components that make up fabric, categorized into natural and synthetic (man-made and
regenerated) types. Natural fibers, derived from plants and animals, come in a variety of shapes and
sizes.

Synthetic fibers are typically filaments that are extruded and cut to a desired length. Manufactured
regenerated fibers are created through the chemical transformation of natural polymers.

Here’s a breakdown of the main fiber categories:

• Natural: Cotton, silk, linen (flax), hemp, leather, wool, and luxury fibers like alpaca and angora.
• Regenerated: Acrylic, acetate, and rayon.
• Synthetic: Polyester, spandex, and nylon.
• Blends: Poly/Cotton, Spandex/Cotton (blends aim to combine the best characteristics of each fabric,
  e.g., polyester/cotton blends offer breathability and reduced wrinkling).

When working with fabric for home décor and design, these are the fabrics you’ll encounter most often:

Essential Fabric Terminology

Selvage: The self-finished edge of fabric, tightly woven to prevent unraveling or fraying. Wikipedia

Cross grain: Perpendicular to the lengthwise grain or selvage edge, also known as the “weft”. Isn’t that Sew

Straight grain: Parallel to the selvage edge, also known as the “warp”. Isn’t that Sew

Bias: When the warp and weft threads are at a 45° angle to its major seam lines. Wikipedia

10 Easy Fabric Projects for Beginners

Super-Simple
Dishtowels – A simple pattern, an even simpler project.

Easy No-Sew
Curtains – Just fabric, Stitch Witchery, an iron, and some time to create a new set of curtains.

Magnetic
Ironing Mat – A mat that sticks to the top of your dryer for an efficient laundry day.

Sweet and Simple
Potholders – A stylish and functional project to protect your hands from hot items.

Floor
Cushions – Fabric + Bed Pillows = Cozy Floor Cushions.

Mitered-Corner Dinner
Napkins – Create your own set of napkins with this basic sewing project.

Reversible
Fabric Storage Bin – Cuts, folds, and an iron create a darling set of storage bins.

Folding Magazine Rack – Hardwood dowels and fabric combine to make a modern
magazine rack.

10-Minute One-Piece Envelope Pillow Covers – A quick and simple sewing project
that’s perfect for beginners!

Fabric Pots for Your
Plants – Wrap your houseplants in gorgeous prints.

Recommended Tools and Books for Fabric
Crafts

Gingher Fabric Scissors: Sharp blades and fabric are a match made in heaven.

Brother CS6000I Sewing Machine: A reliable, basic machine that’s perfect for
straight lines on lightweight and upholstery-weight fabrics.

Fiskars Cutting Mat: Great for its size and simplicity.

Soapstone Fabric Marker: Essential for drawing lines on fabric; these markers wash
out easily.

First Time Sewing: A well-reviewed book recommended as an alternative to taking a
class.

The Sewing Book: An Encyclopedic Resource of Step-by-Step Techniques: Celebrated
for its clear, visual coverage of sewing basics.

Singer Complete Photo Guide to Sewing: Recommended as a supplement to a sewing
class, with helpful photos for visual learners.

Top 5 Fabric and Sewing Blogs to Follow

Purl SOHO:
A wealth of gorgeous sewing tutorials for your home.

A Fashionable Stitch: Sunni
covers everything from clothing to home goods with wit and charm.

Madalynne:
Maddie Flanigan offers a detailed ‘Best of 2016’ section that’s not to be missed.

Closet Case Files: Modern
trends and helpful tutorials.